2009 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Audi S6
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi S6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi S6 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi S6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi S6 (322 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (272 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1996 Audi S6.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi S6. (400 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi S6. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi S6 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi S6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1996 Audi S6 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | S6 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 322 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.8 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 14.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
