2004 Audi A6 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A6 would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A6 (220 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. (201 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A6 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (500 Nm) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A6. (300 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A6 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
