2006 Audi A4 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Audi A4 is newer by 10 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 2006 Audi A4. (255 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 360 kg more than 2006 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A4 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, 2006 Audi A4 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 (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A4. (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A4 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3129 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 2240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2890 mm |
