2009 Audi S8 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Audi S8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2009 Audi S8. (450 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 775 kg more than 2009 Audi S8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi S8 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi S8. (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi S8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi S8 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 450 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
