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

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

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

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is the overall winner for buyers seeking a blend of performance, efficiency, and a wider range of options, including an accessible entry point and a potent hybrid. However, the Audi A8 remains a strong contender for those prioritizing consistent, executive-level luxury and standard all-wheel drive across its more focused lineup.
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Price Comparison
Starting at456,750 – 479,900 AED209,750 – 679,900 AED
Engine & Power
Engine2,995 – 3,993 cc · 6 – 8 cyl1,991 – 3,982 cc · 4 – 8 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)340 – 460 hp184 – 612 hp
Torque (Nm)500 – 660 Nm300 – 850 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)4.5 – 5.7 s3.4 – 7.7 s
Top Speed (Km/h)250 km/h240 – 250 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)8 – 10.2 L/100km5.9 – 9.1 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity72 – 82 L50 – 66 L
Gears89
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive / Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Battery Size—28.6 kWh
Battery Range (km)—100 km
Measurements
L×W×H5.2 / 5.3 m × 1.9 m × 1.5 / 1.5 m4.9 m × 1.9 m × 1.5 m
Wheelbase (meters)3.0 / 3.1 m2.9 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,920 – 2,300 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 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 MirrorsElectric SunroofElectronic 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 RoofParking 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 AssistRoof RailsRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSD Card SupportSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSeatsSilver TrimSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Audio VolumeSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSurround CameraTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTorsen Limited Slip DifferentialTouchpadTouchscreenTouchscreen SizeTraction 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 ControlAcoustic Front WindshieldActive BonnetActive HeadrestsAdaptive Cruise ControlAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAppsAttention AssistAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothCargo Area LightCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCollision DetectionCornering LightsCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofFoldable Rear SeatsFootwell LightsFront Seat ArmrestHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistIlluminated Door SillsImmobilizerIntelligent KeyInternet ConnectivityiPod InterfaceISOFIX 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 SystemOdometerPaddle 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 DefoggerRemote StartRoad Sign AssistScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSpeed LimiterSport PedalsSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSurround CameraTemperature DisplayTouchpadTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre 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 Performance Enthusiasts

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon takes the lead with its top-tier trims offering up to 612 hp and a scorching 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds, making it ideal for thrill-seekers.

2

Best for Consistent High-End Luxury

The Audi A8 offers a more uniformly premium experience from its higher starting price (456,750 AED), ensuring every trim delivers executive-level comfort and advanced features consistently.

3

Best for Value and Eco-Conscious Buyers

With a broader price range starting significantly lower and an available plug-in hybrid option with 100 km electric range, the E-Class Saloon provides greater flexibility and efficiency.

4

Best for Long-Distance Comfort

The Audi A8, with its larger standard fuel tank (up to 82L) and standard All-Wheel Drive, is perfectly suited for extended journeys, offering stable and confident touring.

Pros & cons

Audi A8

Pros

  • Larger standard fuel tank capacity (up to 82 L)
  • Standard All-Wheel Drive across all trims
  • Consistently higher-tier luxury feel from entry model
  • Longer wheelbase options for enhanced rear comfort
  • Slightly larger overall dimensions for commanding presence

Cons

  • Higher starting price point (from 456,750 AED)
  • Less powerful top-end engine compared to E-Class
  • Slower maximum acceleration (4.5 seconds fastest)
  • No plug-in hybrid variant available

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon

Pros

  • Much wider price range, more accessible entry point (from 209,750 AED)
  • Significantly higher maximum horsepower (up to 612 hp)
  • Faster maximum acceleration (as quick as 3.4 seconds)
  • Better fuel economy and available plug-in hybrid option (as low as 5.9 L/100km with 100 km electric range)
  • Larger trunk capacity (540 L)

Cons

  • Smaller standard fuel tank capacity (50 L)
  • Lower starting luxury feel due to wider range of trims
  • Not all trims come with AWD as standard
  • Shorter wheelbase compared to A8's extended options

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Audi A8 or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon better for luxury in the UAE?

While both are luxury sedans, the Audi A8 starts at a much higher price point (456,750 AED) and offers a consistently premium experience across its range, emphasizing executive comfort and advanced features. The E-Class Saloon has a broader appeal, with trims starting lower, which can dilute the top-tier luxury feel for some buyers. For uncompromising luxury from the base model up, choose the A8.

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

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is the performance winner. It offers a wider range of engines, with its top-tier models reaching up to 612 hp and achieving 0-100 km/h in a blistering 3.4 seconds. The Audi A8's most powerful variant delivers 460 hp and a 4.5-second acceleration. For raw power and speed, the E-Class Saloon leads the pack.

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

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is more fuel-efficient. It has trims that achieve as low as 5.9 L/100km, significantly better than the Audi A8's best of 8 L/100km. Additionally, the E-Class Saloon offers a plug-in hybrid option with a 100 km electric range, further enhancing its efficiency credentials. If fuel economy is a priority, the E-Class is the better choice.

Which has more cargo space, the Audi A8 or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers more cargo space. It boasts a trunk capacity of 540 liters, which is slightly more generous than the Audi A8's maximum of 520 liters. While both provide ample space for luggage, the E-Class Saloon edges out the A8 for those needing a bit more cargo volume.