2009 Audi A6 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Audi A6 is newer by 11 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A6 (221 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 995 kg more than 2009 Audi A6.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A6, 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, 2009 Audi A6 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. 2009 Audi A6 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A6 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
