1998 Audi A6 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A6 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (248 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1998 Audi A6. (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A6.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Audi A6, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A6. (350 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A6. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A6 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2225 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 88 L |
