2008 Audi A4 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 12 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (265 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A4 (447 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (315 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A4 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A4 | S |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3196 cc | 3199 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 265 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 447 Nm | 315 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |