2011 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Audi S8
To start off, 2012 Audi S8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi S8 (513 HP) has 131 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. (382 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2012 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi S8 (650 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. (530 Nm). This means 2012 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Audi S8 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | S8 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5500 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 513 HP |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 650 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4582 mm | 5131 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1816 mm | 1948 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2992 mm |
