2009 Audi S8 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Audi S8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2009 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi S8 (450 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 309 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 190 kg more than 2009 Audi S8.
Because 2009 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. 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, 2009 Audi S8 (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (310 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. 2009 Audi S8 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi S8 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S8 | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 450 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 15.8 L/100km | 5.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 54 L |
