2004 Audi A6 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Audi A6 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 2,696 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A6 (179 HP @ 3300 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (151 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A6 weights approximately 260 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 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 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, 2004 Audi A6 (370 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A6 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | C |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2696 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
