2009 Audi S8 vs. 1996 Audi S6
To start off, 2009 Audi S8 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 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2009 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi S8 (450 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1996 Audi S6. (335 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi S6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi S6 weights approximately 585 kg more than 2009 Audi S8.
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 S8 (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi S6. (420 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi S6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi S8 | 1996 Audi S6 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | S8 | S6 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 4171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 450 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | AWD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 10.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.2 L/100km | 21.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 15.8 L/100km | 14.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 82 L |
