2009 Audi A8 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
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 SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 7,291 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 5550 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (444 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 55 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 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (766 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A8. (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 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 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A8 | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5998 cc | 7291 cc |
Engine Type | W | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 444 HP | 518 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5550 RPM |
Torque | 580 Nm | 766 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 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 | 1995 kg | 2050 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |