2009 Audi A8 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 270 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (174 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (425 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | E |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 2604 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 425 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
