1996 Audi A4 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 16 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (210 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (202 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | R |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3216 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
