2009 Audi A8 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (276 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 85 kg more than 2009 Audi A8. 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A8. (360 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3696 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 88 L |
