1996 Audi S6 vs. 1991 BMW M12
To start off, 1996 Audi S6 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi S6 (335 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1991 BMW M12. (296 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW M12.
Because 1996 Audi S6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 BMW M12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi S6. (420 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi S6. 1996 Audi S6 has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW M12 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW M12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Audi S6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi S6 | 1991 BMW M12 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S6 | M12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4170 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2610 mm |
