1996 Audi A6 vs. 2008 Audi S4
To start off, 2008 Audi S4 is newer by 12 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 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1996 Audi A6. (191 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A6 weights approximately 415 kg more than 2008 Audi S4.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A6. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A6. 1996 Audi A6 has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi S4 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi S4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A6 | 2008 Audi S4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A6 | S4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 4163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 340 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 5.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
