2009 Audi A8 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz R would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (350 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. (190 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (597 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A8. (441 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A8. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz R has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | R |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 441 Nm | 597 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2990 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
