2006 Audi A4 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Audi A4 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2006 Audi A4. (255 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A4 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2006 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A4. (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1998 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 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3129 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
