1998 Audi A6 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 14 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, 1998 Audi A6 (286 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. (264 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 30 kg more than 1998 Audi A6.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A6. (401 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A6. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Audi A6 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A6 | CLS |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 286 HP | 264 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 401 Nm | 620 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1815 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4940 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1882 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1417 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2875 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 80 L |