1997 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Audi A6

To start off, 2008 Audi A6 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2008 Audi A6. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 160 kg more than 2008 Audi A6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A6 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, 2008 Audi A6 (370 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. 2008 Audi A6 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Mercedes-Benz S 2008 Audi A6
Make Mercedes-Benz Audi
Model S A6
Year Released 1997 2008
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2799 cc 2496 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 190 HP 178 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 270 Nm 370 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 1500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 19.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1890 kg 1730 kg
Vehicle Length 5120 mm 4800 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2770 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 70 L