2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2013 Audi A8
To start off, 2013 Audi A8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 2013 Audi A8. (367 HP @ 6800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2013 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 21 kg more than 2013 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Audi A8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Audi A8 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm) has 385 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Audi A8. (445 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2013 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | A8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 3991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 8 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 367 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 445 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 89.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2045 kg | 2024 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5137 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2111 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2992 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
