2009 Audi A8 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Audi A8 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 239 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 310 kg more than 2009 Audi A8. 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (829 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A8. (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 829 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 2250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
