2004 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Audi S6
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi S6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi S6 would be higher. At 4,171 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi S6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi S6 (335 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi S6 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2004 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Audi S6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Audi A8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 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 Audi S6 (420 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 1996 Audi S6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A8. 1996 Audi S6 has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Audi S6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1996 Audi S6 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | S6 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 4171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 14.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 82 L |
