1998 Audi A6 vs. 2008 Audi S4
To start off, 2008 Audi S4 is newer by 10 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1998 Audi A6. (286 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi A6 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2008 Audi S4.
Because 2008 Audi S4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Audi A6. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A6. (401 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A6. 2008 Audi S4 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. 2008 Audi S4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A6 | 2008 Audi S4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A6 | S4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 4161 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 340 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 63 L |
