2004 Audi A6 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A6 (247 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (175 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A6 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 280 kg more than 2004 Audi A6.
Because 2004 Audi A6 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, 2004 Audi A6 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (330 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A6. (320 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A6. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A6 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:
| 2004 Audi A6 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1490 mm |
