2008 Audi S8 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 5,199 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S8 (450 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. (429 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz S.
Both vehicles are all wheel drive (AWD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 S (699 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi S8. (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S8 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5199 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 450 HP | 429 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | AWD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
