1996 Audi A6 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1996 Audi A6 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (223 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 Audi A6. (191 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 215 kg more than 1996 Audi A6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A6 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A6. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A6 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | S |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 4520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 378 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2870 mm |
