Conclusion: while not as big of a difference in FULL AUTO MODES as I had expected, I still prefer the more predictable exposures of the A95 which seems to give clearer shadow detail. I must say however that both cameras are so close it's like splitting hairs as to which one is better. Please keep in mind this does not consider the A95's programable and scene modes which make it a bit easier to dial in custom settings in a hurry.

Here are 2 cropped sections with no tweaks which were both saved at optimal JPEG compression.

In general I think this example points out what I percieve as the A95 having greater clarity in the shadow details vs. the S500 which I have perceived as foggy and lacking detail in a greater number of pictures. It just feels like the A95 gets the exposure right more often.

This is not a scientific test, but a simple comparison.