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, 2004 Audi A4 (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (151 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 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, 2004 Audi A4 (230 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
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 | 1781 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
