2005 Audi A4 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 9 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 2,983 cc, 2005 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 170 kg more than 2005 Audi A4.
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, 2005 Audi A4, 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, 2005 Audi A4 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | C |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 2799 cc |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 2050 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
