2003 Audi RS6 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Audi RS6 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Audi RS6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi RS6 (444 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 269 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (175 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi RS6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 50 kg more than 2003 Audi RS6.
Because 2003 Audi RS6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi RS6 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, 2003 Audi RS6 (560 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (330 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Audi RS6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi RS6 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi RS6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi RS6 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RS6 | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
