A8 D3 vs E-Class W211: which is better?
Audi A8 D3 (2002–2010) vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class W211 (2002–2009): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Audi A8 D3Specifications
| Audi A8 D3 | Mercedes-Benz E-Class W211 | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2002–2010 | 2002–2009 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 4.2 V8 | 3.5 V6 (E350) |
| Power, up to | 335 hp | 272 hp |
| Torque, up to | 430 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | rear-wheel drive |
| Length | 5 051 mm | 4 818 mm |
| Width | 1 894 mm | 1 822 mm |
| Height | 1 444 mm | 1 452 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 944 mm | 2 854 mm |
| Fuel tank | 90 L | 80 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 507 425 ₸ | ≈ 68 375 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Audi A8 D3
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 335 hp
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Large fuel tank: 90 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Gearbox ZF 5HP/6HP: bushing and mechatronics wear
Gearbox (ZF 5HP/6HP): bushing and mechatronic wear; shift shocks.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class W211
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 272 hp
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Large tank: 80 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Engine Mercedes M272 (V6): balance shaft and intermediate shaft gear wear on engines before 2008
- Gearbox Mercedes 7G-Tronic (722.9): control board failure (speed sensors)
Engine (Mercedes M272 (V6)): wear of balance shaft and intermediate shaft gears on pre-2008 engines; intake manifold flap leaks.
Gearbox (Mercedes 7G-Tronic (722.9)): control board failure (speed sensors); valve body wear.
Which one to choose
- A8 D3 — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase, fuel tank.
- E-Class W211 — if you care more about: kz tax 2026.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: A8 D3 or E-Class W211?
A8 D3: up to 335 hp, E-Class W211: up to 272 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: A8 D3 — about 507 425 ₸, E-Class W211 — about 68 375 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.