1996 Audi A6 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500

To start off, 1996 Audi A6 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 (245 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1996 Audi A6. (191 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 286 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A6, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 (399 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A6. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A6. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Audi A6 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500
Make Audi Mercedes-Benz
Model A6 500
Year Released 1996 1986
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2770 cc 4973 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 191 HP 245 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4750 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 399 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 2750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 96.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86.4 mm 85 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.6:1 10.0:1
Top Speed 236 km/hour 230 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1380 kg 1666 kg
Vehicle Length 4800 mm 5140 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 3080 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 90 L