2009 Audi A8 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V
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 V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz V would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 305 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 60 kg more than 2009 Audi A8.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. 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 (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | V |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3010 mm |
