2009 Audi A8 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 19 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A8. (650 Nm). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1921 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
