2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2013 Audi A8
To start off, 2013 Audi A8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP) has 190 more horse power than 2013 Audi A8. (328 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2013 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1000 kg more than 2013 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Audi A8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (631 Nm) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Audi A8. (441 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2013 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | A8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 328 HP |
| Torque | 631 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5137 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2111 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2992 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 19.6 L/100km | 11.7 L/100km |
