1996 Audi A6 vs. 1999 Audi S3
To start off, 1999 Audi S3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A6 would be higher. At 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi S3 (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1996 Audi A6. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi S3 weights approximately 30 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 1999 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A6. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi S3 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, 1996 Audi A6 (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi S3. (270 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A6 | 1999 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A6 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 42 L |
