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 5,998 cc, 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 2650 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (444 HP @ 6200 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 40 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 @ 2650 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A8. (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM). 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 | 5998 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Type | W | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| 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 | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 14.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
