2009 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. (376 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1996 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 1996 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A8. (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A8 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A8 | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5204 cc | 5987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 444 HP | 376 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 540 Nm | 580 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |