2004 Audi A4 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (151 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (128 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (195 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | C |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
