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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP) has 12 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (256 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 15 kg more 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 (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A8. (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A8.
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 | 3123 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11 L/100km | 14 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
