2009 Audi S8 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (494 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2009 Audi S8. (450 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi S8. (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi S8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi S8 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S8 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 450 HP | 494 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.2 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 88 L |
