1996 Audi S6 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 8 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi S6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi S6 (322 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS. (268 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi S6 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Audi S6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 1996 Audi S6 (400 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS. (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Audi S6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi S6 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi S6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi S6 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S6 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.6:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.9 L/100km | 10.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
