1996 Audi A6 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 16 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1996 Audi A6. (191 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A6.
Because 1996 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A6. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A6. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A6 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | S |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 5096 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
