The Mercedes Benz S500, manufactured by the German automobile manufacturer Mercedes Benz has been described as one of the most advanced technological productions in the automobile industry. This new S500 looks smaller and slimmer than earlier models, measuring about 1.3 inches narrower and more than two inches shorter. The Audi A8 is an executive luxury car that is also produced by a German automobile manufacturer by the name Audi. It is a great car and offers stiff competition to the Benz S500. One of the models in this range is the Audi A8 4.2 FSI that combines the sportiness of the BMW and the engineering power of the Mercedes to give it a very muscular feel.
Another range of luxury vehicles is the BMW 7 Series manufactured by the BMW Company, another German automaker.
The current series is available in two models, the E65 standard-wheelbase and the E66 extended-wheelbase that feature the first kind of iDrive system in the BMW group of automobiles.
Statement
The Benz S500 is characterized by soft contours, gently sculpted hood line, and sweeping headlights that give it that trim and sleek appearance. Front and rear seats are very firm and supportive and are covered in very rich leather upholstery to give the driver a relaxed feeling even after a long drive. Its integrated system, referred to as the Cockpit Management and Data (COMAND), has various buttons that are used for the operation of various gadgets in the vehicle. Varying weather conditions are measured using exterior sensors in the control system, and there is a satellite-operated navigation system that is displayed from a T.V.-like screen (Hagin Tom 2007).
The Benz S500 is powered by a V8 modular with a liter capacity of 5.0 liters.
The engine type is a SOHC Z4 valve with a size of 303 Cid/4966 cc and has 339 pound-feet of torque and a 302 horsepower that launches very well, giving it an impressive 0-60 mph times. An automated five-speed transmission helps the driver to gain more control, and for sport-shift points and slippery roads, there is a Winter-sport button. Although all these qualities cannot eliminate accidents, the system greatly helps the driver to avoid potential problems. Prices range between $90,000 and $145,000. In performance, the Benz S500 is quite fast on the road at 90mph to 110mph and has also displayed lightning-quick reaction either when parking or even driving aggressively (Hagin Tom 2007).
The Audi A8 4.2 FSI has a petrol-powered engine of 4172 ccs and a 90-liter tank that is very useful on long journeys. The fuel system is DI, Bore 84.3mm, stroke 93 mm, 40 valves, 335 @6500 ps @rpm, Horsepower, and a Torque of 429.9@3500 NM@rpm. The engine performs greatly and in a very refined manner, and the 4WD gives it superb transmission during the gear shifts. The price ranges between $70690- to $120995.
It has exceptional features such as the Quattro four-wheel drive and adjustable suspension that give it an advantage over other cars. Other features include an innovative defogging system, automatic air conditioning that has a four optional channel system, electromechanical parking brake, and a Bose Surround Sound System. The Audi A8 4.2 FSI has very comfortable features such as power leather seats, door locks, mirrors, windows, and power seats. Other features are Moon and Sun Roofs, AM/FM radio, CD players, and cassette players.
The safety features include key-less entry, Anti-lock braking system, driver and passenger airbags, child safety lock, front and rear airbags as well as an anti-theft system (Ghosley Steve 2007).
The BMW 7 Series range of vehicles have an iDrive is used to control most of the car’s features that include audio, climate, and common settings, navigation, and suspension, even though most automotive writers have criticized this system as too complex. Features include a generous bonnet, long wheelbase, and splendid roofline curves, perfect harmony, exclusive luxury, and sporty performance that all combine to offer a driving experience that is unique.
The BMW 7 series also has quite excellent features in the control system, such as the Dynamic Drive, which helps minimize body roll and gives an electric damper control. Other features include power door locks, mirror and seat, Moon and Sun Roofs, AM/FM Radio, CD player, superb leather seats as well as excelled air conditioning.
The engine is a 2993 cc, Horsepower 160@400 Ops@rpm, Torque 500@1750Nm@rpm, Z4 valves, six-cylinder configuration, and valve gear operation is DOHC. All these features combined produce quality, refinement, excellence, and class in one package. Safety features are similar to those of the Audi, but the anti-theft system is optional.
Prices range between $75,800 and $ 122,000. (HDFC Bank 2007-2008).
Conclusion
Unlike the Audi A8 and BMW series, the Benz S500 does not have the joystick system of control and just scanning for a radio station can be annoying.
Like the Audi, the Benz S500 has an air system to stiffen or soften the ride in case one wishes to adjust its suspension settings, and this is done by use of a button on the dash. The interiors of BMW 7 series, Mercedes, and Audi don’t have much difference, but differences only exist in the make. All three types of vehicles are luxury vehicles that display a very awesome exterior which has been well designed to conceal awesome kind of wheel power. The seats in all three types of vehicles are leather made and they display a lot of comfort and especially the driver’s seat. The Benz S500 has a lower engine capacity as compared to the Audi A8 and BMW 7 series giving the other two types a better chance in long distance driving. When it comes to engine power, the Benz and the Audi have more powerful engines than the BMW. The Benz S500 is more expensive than the other two types that have a close price range.
References
HDFC Bank(2007-2008). BMW 7-Series 730 Ld (Diesel). Web.
Ghosley Steve(2007). Audi A6 4.2 FSI Quatrro. Web.
Hagin Tom (2007). New Car/Review. Mercedes Benz S500. Web.