Compare two new cars by price, estimated monthly payment, fuel economy, and other specifications. Data comes from the CarPayCheck.com catalog and uses your selected financing terms.
| A8 | S-Class | |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Starting price | — | — |
| Monthly payment | — | — |
| Fuel type | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Fuel economy | 22.0 mpg | 20.0 mpg |
| CO₂ emissions | 414 g/mi | 380 g/mi–604 g/mi |
| Annual maintenance cost | — | — |
Affected 2019–2023 A8/A8L models with the 48V mild-hybrid system can experience an internal short circuit in the lithium-ion auxiliary battery, causing a sudden electrical system malfunction warning, loss of power steering, engine stall, and in rare cases smoke or fire. NHTSA recall 23V802 covers this defect. Repairs under recall are free; outside the recall, replacing the battery typically costs around $5,250 including parts and labor.
Affected 2020–2022 A8/A8L models with 3.0T or 4.0T engines can have a low-pressure fuel pump impeller that deforms, causing intermittent engine sputtering, sudden power loss, and potential engine stall while driving. NHTSA recall 22V183 addresses this defect. Typical replacement cost for the fuel pump is around $1,450 including parts and labor.
Affected 2019–2022 A8/A8L models with the 48V mild-hybrid system can have a belt-driven starter generator (BSG) failure that drains the 12V battery, triggers start/stop system malfunction or electrical system shut-off messages, and prevents the engine from cranking. This is a known weakness documented in TSB 01-22-34. Replacing the BSG and 12V battery typically costs around $4,350 including labor.
Affected 2019–2026 A8/A8L models with adaptive air suspension can develop air strut leaks and compressor failure, leading to an air suspension level too low warning, uneven ride height, visible sag, and a compressor that runs constantly or fails from thermal overload. Driving on a failed strut can damage the tire and fender liner. Replacing one air strut plus the compressor typically costs around $3,650 including parts and labor.
Affected 2019–2023 A8/A8L models with the dual-screen MMI can have the upper 10.1-inch touchscreen lose response, go black, or show burn-in within the first two years, disabling climate controls, navigation, and phone functions. Audi TSB 91-23-10 documents the issue. Replacing the MMI display module typically costs around $2,950 including programming and labor.
Yes. NHTSA recall 21V819 affects 2021 S500 4Matic, S580 4Matic, and Maybach S580 4Matic models, where a fuel pump defect can cause sudden engine stall while driving and may prevent restart. Check the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup for a completed 21V819 repair and ask for the dealer receipt; during a cold start listen for the fuel pump prime and watch for any stall or power loss during the test drive. The consequence is a higher crash risk if the car stalls in traffic. The dealer recall fix is free, while an independent fuel pump replacement is commonly around $2,000.
Yes. NHTSA recall 21V939 covers 2021-2022 S-Class sedans, including S500 4Matic, S580 4Matic, and Maybach S580 variants, where a rear brake line can chafe and leak fluid. Check that recall 21V939 is completed, inspect the rear brake lines for abrasion or wetness, and watch for the low brake fluid warning, a soft or long pedal, or visible fluid near the rear wheels. The consequence is reduced braking performance and increased stopping distance, which raises crash risk. The authorized dealer repair is free.
Audi A8 and Mercedes-Benz S-Class suit different driving needs. The main differences below cover price, monthly payment, fuel economy, and running costs.
Both models use Hybrid. Fuel economy is A8 — 22.0 mpg; S-Class — 20.0 mpg. A8 uses less energy in everyday driving.
The final choice is about more than numbers: annual distance, city or highway use, and the space your household needs all matter. Use the CarPayCheck.com calculator to apply your financing terms and evaluate both cars in your situation.
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