1996 Audi A4 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A4 would be higher. At 5,789 cc (12 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (362 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (193 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 390 kg more than 1996 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A4 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (540 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | S |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 5789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 88 L |
