2009 Audi A8 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 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 5,998 cc, 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (523 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (444 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 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 150 kg more than 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2013 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A8. (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A8. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Type | W | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 523 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 4.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2585 mm |
