2005 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Audi S6
To start off, 2005 Audi A8 is newer by 9 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 4,170 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi S6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi S6 (335 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2005 Audi A8. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A8 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1996 Audi S6.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi S6. (420 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi S6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 1996 Audi S6 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | S6 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 4170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1815 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 Tank Capacity | 90 L | 82 L |
