2008 Audi S8 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi S8 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2008 Audi S8. (450 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi S8.
Because 2008 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi S8 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (699 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi S8. (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi S8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi S8 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S8 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5199 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 450 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
