1996 Audi A8 vs. 2009 Audi S6
To start off, 2009 Audi S6 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A8 would be higher. Both 1996 Audi A8 and 2009 Audi S6 are equipped with a 4,172 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi S6 (335 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1996 Audi A8. (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi S6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi S6 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1996 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Audi S6 (420 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A8. (400 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Audi S6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A8 | 2009 Audi S6 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | S6 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 84.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 82 L |
