Few cars are just as fun to drive as they are to nap in, but it is certainly true for the 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the 2017 Audi S8. Powerful engines, intelligent driving assistance, comfortable leather, and back seats designed for a hero can all be checked off the list for both of these full-size luxury sedans. They share many common features, and actually do sort of look alike, but they are very different monsters.
Mercedes-Benz, with the help of AMG®, has a long history of engines with more torque than horsepower. The same could have been said about Audi a decade ago, but when the popular option in the industry switched from supercharging to turbocharging, Audi followed suit, resulting in the 4.0L turbo V8 you see in front of you. Mercedes-Benz did the same thing, but was able to maintain the muscle feel with biturbo engines. The 5.5L V8 in the Mercedes-Benz AMG® is definitely a winner in this area. Granted, the Audi does weigh a bit less, but at what cost?
In the automotive industry, vehicles that compete directly with one another are typically very close in size. It is not uncommon to see identical exterior dimensions, and competitors are usually less than an inch apart in all directions. In this case, the Mercedes-Benz AMG® S 63 is 4 inches longer than the Audi S8. Evidence of the extra length can be found inside and out of the car. It is taller, wider, and has a longer wheelbase than the S8, though it is hard to tell from the outside.
It is difficult to say anything bad about either models. On the inside, they are elegant beyond all reason and come with futuristic gadgets that no one has ever heard of. It is simply amazing how comfortable and fun both of these cars are, both in front and back, but this is where the extra 4 inches on the Mercedes-Benz becomes apparent. A little more low-end power and a little more breathing room always go well together. Of course, if you really need the extra horsepower, Mercedes-Benz AMG® offers that too with the S 65!
