1998 Audi A6 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (429 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 306 more horse power than 1998 Audi A6. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 705 kg more than 1998 Audi A6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (699 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 531 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A6. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A6. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A6 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 429 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 2150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3165 mm |
