1996 Audi S6 vs. 2003 Audi A8
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi S6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi S6 would be higher. At 4,170 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi S6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi S6 (335 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (276 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1996 Audi S6.
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, 2003 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi S6. (420 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi S6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi S6 | 2003 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | S6 | A8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4170 cc | 3936 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 650 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 90 L |
