Audi A8 vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon: Which Should You Buy in Qatar?

A complete comparison of the ⁦Audi A8⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across Qatar.

⁦Audi A8⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon⁩: the verdict

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon wins for its superior versatility, efficiency, and broader appeal, offering everything from economical options to top-tier performance and a PHEV variant. However, the Audi A8 remains a strong contender for those prioritizing a consistently opulent, full-size luxury experience with standard all-wheel drive and a larger fuel tank for longer journeys.
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Price Comparison
Starting at468,000 QAR235,000 – 498,000 QAR
Engine & Power
Engine2,995 – 6,299 cc · 6 – 12 cyl1,991 – 3,982 cc · 4 – 8 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)340 – 500 hp184 – 612 hp
Torque (Nm)500 – 625 Nm300 – 850 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)4.6 – 5.7 s3.4 – 7.7 s
Top Speed (Km/h)250 km/h240 – 250 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)10.2 – 11.3 L/100km5.9 – 9.1 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity82 L50 – 66 L
Gears89
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive / Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Battery Size—25.4 kWh
Battery Range (km)—109 km
Measurements
L×W×H5.3 / 5.3 m × 1.9 / 2.1 m × 1.5 / 1.5 m4.9 m × 1.9 m × 1.5 m
Wheelbase (meters)3.1 / 3.1 m2.9 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,980 – 2,150 kg1,530 – 1,880 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)505 – 520 L540 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors4 doors
Features
Key features
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic Front WindshieldAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive BrakeAdaptive Cruise ControlAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAttention AssistAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto Handbrake Release FunctionAuto HeadlampsAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothBody Colored GrilleBonnet LightBrembo BrakesBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCenter Console BoxCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCigar LighterCollision DetectionCool boxCornering assistCornering LightsCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCrosswind AssistCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDoor ReflectorsDrive ComputerDual Exhaust TipDVDDynamic Damper ControlDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric CurtainElectric Door MirrorsElectronic HandbrakeFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront Seat ArmrestFront WindshieldGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDDHDMIHead-Up DisplayHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistIlluminated Door HandlesIlluminated Door SillsImmobilizerIntelligent KeyInternet ConnectivityiPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLane Departure WarningLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather Instrument PanelLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLive Traffic InformationLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMoving Object Detection SystemMP3Multi-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresPaddle ShiftersPanoramic Glass RoofParallel Parking AssistParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPuddle LampPush Button StartRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear BrakesRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRemote StartRoad Sign AssistRollover Stability ControlRoof RailsRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSD Card SupportSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MassageSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSeatsSilver TrimSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Audio VolumeSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSurround CameraTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTorsen Limited Slip DifferentialTouchpadTouchscreenTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Ventilated SeatsVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - ChromeWinchWireless HeadphonesWood Trim
12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlActive BonnetActive HeadrestsAdaptive Cruise ControlAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAirbagsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAppsAttention AssistAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothBody Colored MirrorsCargo Area LightCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCollision DetectionCornering LightsCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofFoldable Rear SeatsFootwell LightsFront Seat ArmrestHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHill AssistIlluminated Door SillsImmobilizerIntelligent KeyInternet ConnectivityISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLane Departure WarningLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMoving Object Detection SystemMP3Multi-Information DisplayNavigation SystemPaddle ShiftersPanoramic Glass RoofParking SensorsPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPuddle LampPush Button StartRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC VentsRear BlindsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRoad Sign AssistScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSpeed LimiterSport PedalsSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSurround CameraTemperature DisplayTouchpadTraction ControlTrip ComputerTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayTyre Repair KitUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Ventilated SeatsVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Value & Efficiency

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is the clear choice, offering a much lower starting price of 235,000 QAR and significantly better fuel economy, as low as 5.9 L/100km, plus an available plug-in hybrid option.

2

Best for Performance Enthusiasts

For ultimate power and speed, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon takes the lead with variants offering up to 612 hp and accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds, surpassing the Audi A8's peak performance.

3

Best for Consistent Luxury & Space

The Audi A8 excels in offering a more expansive and consistently luxurious experience as a full-size sedan, boasting a longer 5.3-meter length and a larger fuel tank for extended comfort on long drives.

4

Best for Eco-Conscious Drivers

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is the superior option for environmentally aware drivers, thanks to its exceptional fuel economy (as low as 5.9 L/100km) and the availability of a plug-in hybrid model with a 109 km electric range.

Pros & cons

Audi A8

Pros

  • Standard All-Wheel Drive for superior traction
  • Larger, more commanding presence (5.3m length)
  • Consistently high-end engine options (340 hp minimum)
  • Larger fuel tank (82 L) for extended range

Cons

  • Higher starting price (468,000 QAR)
  • Less fuel-efficient (10.2 L/100km minimum)
  • No plug-in hybrid option
  • Lower peak power compared to E-Class Saloon's top trims

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon

Pros

  • More accessible starting price (235,000 QAR)
  • Superior fuel efficiency (as low as 5.9 L/100km)
  • Available Plug-in Hybrid option (109 km electric range)
  • Higher maximum horsepower and torque (up to 612 hp, 850 Nm)
  • Faster top acceleration (as quick as 3.4 seconds)

Cons

  • Smaller standard fuel tank (50 L)
  • Shorter wheelbase (2.9m) offers less rear legroom than A8
  • Base models offer less power than entry-level A8
  • Some trims are Rear Wheel Drive only, lacking standard AWD of A8

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more fuel-efficient, the Audi A8 or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is significantly more fuel-efficient, offering models that achieve as low as 5.9 L/100km, compared to the Audi A8's minimum of 10.2 L/100km. For drivers prioritizing lower running costs and reduced emissions, the E-Class Saloon, especially with its available plug-in hybrid variant, is the clear winner.

Is the Audi A8 or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon better for luxury and space?

The Audi A8 generally offers a more expansive and consistently luxurious experience, being a full-size sedan with a length of 5.3 meters and a longer wheelbase. While the E-Class Saloon is luxurious, the A8 provides superior rear legroom and overall cabin presence. If maximum passenger comfort and a grander stature are priorities, the Audi A8 is the better choice.

Which car offers better performance, the Audi A8 or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

For ultimate performance, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon takes the lead, with its top-tier AMG variants delivering up to 612 hp and accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds. While the Audi A8 is powerful, peaking at 500 hp, the E-Class Saloon offers a broader spectrum of performance, including options that surpass the A8's capabilities.

Which is more affordable, the Audi A8 or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers a much more accessible entry point, with prices starting from 235,000 QAR. The Audi A8, by contrast, begins at 468,000 QAR, positioning it firmly in the ultra-luxury segment from the outset. For buyers seeking premium luxury at a more budget-friendly initial cost, the E-Class Saloon is the clear choice.