1997 Porsche 911 vs. 2012 Audi S4
To start off, 2012 Audi S4 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Porsche 911. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Porsche 911 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Porsche 911 (520 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2012 Audi S4. (333 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi S4.
Because 2012 Audi S4 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Porsche 911. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi S4 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, 1997 Porsche 911 (685 Nm) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi S4. (440 Nm). This means 1997 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi S4. 2012 Audi S4 has automatic transmission and 1997 Porsche 911 has manual transmission. 1997 Porsche 911 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi S4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Porsche 911 | 2012 Audi S4 | |
| Make | Porsche | Audi |
| Model | 911 | S4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 520 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 685 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4704 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2809 mm |
