2009 Audi A8 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,998 cc, 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A8 (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 313 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A8 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A8 | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5998 cc | 2962 cc |
Engine Type | W | in-line |
Horse Power | 444 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 580 Nm | 267 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 80.3 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |