1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Audi A5
To start off, 2011 Audi A5 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2011 Audi A5. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A5.
Because 2011 Audi A5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A5 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 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi A5. (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi A5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Audi A5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | A5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
