2006 Audi S4 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Audi S4 is newer by 10 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 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S4 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Audi S4, 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, 2006 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S4 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S4 | C |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 85.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
