Audi RS4 For Sale

Audi RS4 From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search Audi RS4 quattro Audi B7 RS4 quattro Avant Manufacturer quattro GmbH, (a private subsidiary of AUDI AG) Production B5: 2000–2001, B7: 2006–2008 Assembly Neckarsulm, Germany Class Sport Compact. Layout Longitudinal front engine, quattro permanent four-wheel drive Platform Volkswagen Group B platform series Related Audi A4 Audi S4 The Audi RS4 quattro is the top tier and highest performing version of some specific generations of the Audi A4 range of automobiles. It is a sports-focused compact executive car (often called sport compact in some countries), produced by Audi's high-performance private subsidiary quattro GmbH, in limited numbers, for German car manufacturer AUDI AG, part of the larger Volkswagen Group. It slots distinctly above the Audi S4, as the fastest, most sports-focused model based on the A4's "B" automobile platform. The original B5 version was only produced as a five-door five-seat "Avant", Audi's name for a estate car/station wagon. The second version, the B7, was released initially as a four-door five-seat saloon/sedan, with the Avant following a short while later. A two-door four-seat Cabriolet version was subsequently added. Furthermore, their unique internal combustion engines are all front-mounted, and are longitudinally oriented. The transmission is mounted immediately at the rear of the engine in a longitudinal orientation, in the form of a transaxle, and contains both a centre and front differential. Contents 1 B5 (Typ 8D, 2000–2001) 1.1 B5 bodywork and styling 1.2 B5 powertrain 1.3 B5 brakes, wheels and tyres 1.4 Other B5 notable features 2 B7 (Typ 8E, 2006–2008) 2.1 B7 bodywork and styling 2.1.1 B7 interior safety 2.2 B7 powertrain 2.3 B7 suspension and steering 2.4 B7 brakes, wheels and tyres 2.5 Other B7 notable features 2.6 B7 crash testing 2.7 B7 awards 3 Motorsport 3.1 Speed World Challenge 3.2 Euro Superstars 4 See also 5 References 6 External links The "RS" initials are taken from the German: RennSport – literally translated as "racing sport", and is the Audi marque's highest trim level, positioned above the "S" model specification of Audi's regular model line-up. Like all Audi "RS" cars, the RS4 pioneers some of Audi's latest advanced technology, and could therefore be described as a "halo vehicle". Furthermore, it is only available with Audi's Torsen-based 'trademark' quattro permanent four-wheel drive system. Its main market competitors initially included the BMW M3, and the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, and could also include the Lexus IS-F. [edit] B5 (Typ 8D, 2000–2001) Audi B5 RS4 Avant quattro Production 2000–2001 Predecessor Audi RS2 Avant Successor Audi B7 RS4 Body style(s) 5-door Avant (estate/wagon) Platform Volkswagen Group B5 Engine(s) 2.7 L V6 'biturbo' 2xDOHC (ASJ/AZR) Transmission(s) 6-speed manual Wheelbase 2,607 mm (102.6 in) Length 4,525 mm (178.1 in) Width 1,799 mm (70.8 in) Height 1,386 mm (54.6 in) Kerb weight 1,620 kg (3,571 lb) Related Audi B5 A4 Audi B5 S4 Audi B5 RS4 Avant rear ¾ view Audi B5 RS4 showing the flared wheel arches The original B5 Audi RS4 Avant quattro (Typ 8D)[1] was introduced by AUDI AG in late 1999, for main production and sale from 2000, as the successor to the Porsche / quattro GmbH joint venture-developed Audi RS2 Avant. The vehicle, like its RS2 predecessor, was available only as an Avant (Audi's name for an estate car/station wagon), and was built on an existing platform, in this case the Volkswagen Group B5 platform shared with the A4 and S4. Retail price was around Deutsche Mark 103,584. The RS4 was available for sale in most of Europe, parts of Asia and in some Latin American countries. Audi produced 6,030 units between 1999 and 2001. [edit] B5 bodywork and styling Although related to the Audi B5 S4, many of the outer body panels are altered, with wider front and rear wheel arches, to allow for the wider axle track on the RS4. With unique front and rear bumpers, and side sills, and sharing the rear spoiler from the S4 Avant, the aerodynamic modifications achieved a drag coefficient of Cd 0.34. Although the B5 S4 came in a saloon car body style, the B5 RS4 was only available in the Avant version. Luggage space, measured according to the industry standard VDA method is 390 litres (13.8 cu ft) with the rear seats in the upright position, and 1,250 litres (44.1 cu ft) with the seats folded flat. [edit] B5 powertrain Carbon fibre cover of the Audi B5 RS4 2.7 V6 'biturbo' engine Audi B5 RS4 engine power (red) and torque (blue) curves For the powertrain detail of the B5 RS4, its motive power came from a modified version of the B5 S4's 2.7 litre V6 'biturbo' - a 2,671 cubic centimetres (163.0 cu in), 30 valve (five valves per cylinder) 90° V6 engine (parts code prefix: 078; identification codes: early version: 2000 ASJ, EU2 compliant, and later version: 2000-01 AZR, to EU3 standard). This engine was developed and manufactured in the UK by Cosworth Technology (now known as MAHLE Powertrain). It featured enlarged intake and smaller exhaust ports on the two Cosworth Cast Aluminum Alloy ALSi7mg cylinder heads, two parallel turbochargers (one per cylinder bank), larger side-mounted intercoolers (SMICs), dished pistons, stronger connecting rods, larger intake diameter hoses, enlarged exhaust system, and a re-calibrated engine management system. The modifications were enough to increase the engine's power output from the 195 kilowatts (265 PS; 261 bhp) and 400 newton metres (295 ft·lbf) of torque on the S4 to 280 kilowatts (381 PS; 375 bhp) at 7,000 revolutions per minute (rpm) and 440 newton metres (325 ft·lbf) at 6,000 rpm. Engine management is controlled via a Bosch Motronic[2] ME 7.1 electronic engine control unit (ECU), utilising a Bosch 'E-Gas'[3] electronic drive by wire throttle. Fuel is delivered via intake manifold-sited multipoint sequential indirect fuel injection, with fueling rate assisted by air mass metering. Ignition system uses six individual single-spark coils, utilising mapped direct ignition and NGK longlife spark plugs. This highly tuned engine must only be lubricated with a very high quality, low-viscosity, fully-synthetic oil (and must meet VW standard 503.01 or newer), as average oil temperatures can reach 135 °C (275 °F). Oil temperature is managed by a dual oil:water cooler, and an oil:air cooler. A six-speed manual transmission (parts code prefix: 01E, identification code: FDP) (gear ratios - 1st: 3.500, 2nd: 1.889, 3rd: 1.320, 4th: 1.034, 5th: 0.806, 6th: 0.684), cooled by a NACA duct in the engine undertray, and Audi's Torsen-based quattro permanent four-wheel drive system, utilising the Torsen T-2 'automatic torque biasing' (ATB) centre differential were standard. Final drive ratio is 4.111. Even with a kerb weight weight of 1,620 kilograms (3,571 lb), the RS4's powerful engine gave it the performance of a sports car. The 0 to 100 kilometres per hour (0 to 62.1 mph) dash could be reached in just 4.9 seconds, 160 kilometres per hour (99.4 mph) could be achieved in just 11.3 seconds, and 200 kilometres per hour (124.3 mph) could be reached in just 17.0 seconds. Top speed was electronically governed to 250 kilometres per hour (155.3 mph). [edit] B5 brakes, wheels and tyres Brakes were also developed jointly in house by Audi's Quattro GmBH and Cosworth Technologies, not by Porsche as with its' predecessor, the RS2. It has 360 millimetres (14.2 in) diameter by 32 millimetres (1.26 in) thick radially vented and floating cast iron discs at the front, with double-piston floating brake calipers, and 312 millimetres (12.3 in) by 22 millimetres (0.87 in) discs with a single-piston floating caliper at the rear, giving the RS4 braking to match, needing less than 50 metres (160 ft) to come to a full stop from a speed of 110 kilometres per hour (68 mph). Standard roadwheels are 18 inch alloys (8½ x18" "9-spoke"), with 255/35 ZR18 high performance tyres. Optional "winter" alloy wheels were also available, at 18 inch (7½Jx18"), with 225/40 R18 92V tyres. [edit] Other B5 notable features "Sideguard", Audi's curtain airbag system. Xenon High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps. [edit] B7 (Typ 8E, 2006–2008) Audi B7 RS4 quattro Production 2006–2008 Predecessor Audi B5 RS4 Body style(s) 4-door saloon/sedan,[4] 5-door Avant (estate/wagon), 2-door Cabriolet Platform Volkswagen Group B7 Engine(s) 4.2 L V8 FSI 2xDOHC[4][5] Transmission(s) 6-speed Getrag manual[4] Wheelbase 2,648 mm (104.3 in),[4] Cabrio: 2,650 mm (104.3 in) Length 4,589 mm (180.7 in),[4] Cabrio: 4,555 mm (179.3 in) Width 1,816 mm (71.5 in),[4] Cabrio: 1,814 mm (71.4 in) Height 1,415 mm (55.7 in),[4] Cabrio: 1,391 mm (54.8 in) Kerb weight saloon: 1,650–1,680 kg (3,638–3,704 lb),[4] Avant: 1,710 kg (3,770 lb), Cabrio: 1,845 kg (4,068 lb) Related Audi B7 A4 Audi B7 S4 SEAT Exeo Audi B7 RS4 quattro Avant in Phantom Black pearl Audi B7 RS4 quattro Avant in Sprint Blue pearl, with optional anthracite-finished 19" alloy wheels Audi B7 RS4 quattro Cabriolet in Phantom Black pearl There was no RS4 built on the Audi "B6" platform which served as the basis for the Audi A4 between 2001 and 2005. However, after a long hiatus, the second Audi RS4 quattro[5] (Typ 8E), built on Audi's "B7" A4 platform, by quattro GmbH[5] in Neckarsulm, Germany (a wholly owned private subsidiary of AUDI AG), was unveiled in February 2005 at Audi's 'quattro Night' celebration at the company headquarters in Ingolstadt, Germany.[6] An Imola Yellow RS4 saloon came down a replica of a ski jump, then rotated several times on an ice rink, before coming to rest in the centre of the ice. After several minutes to allow the assembled media and guests to examine the car, the RS4 climbed the ski jump and parked near the top. The ski jump was a homage to an Audi commercial from 1986; where an Audi climbed a ski jump in Finland to showcase its superior traction due to Audi's 'trademark' quattro four-wheel drive drivetrain. The RS4 became available to European customers in mid 2006. It was introduced at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in January, and arrived in June 2006 North America. The production run of the B7 RS4 was 2006 to 2008 inclusive, although only 2007 and 2008 model year were sold in the United States. To date, approximately 10,000 B7 RS4s have been built, of which around 2,500 are in the USA. The B7 RS4 Cabriolet, available in Europe from late 2006 to 2008, was made available as a model year 2008 vehicle in the USA. Audi factory numbers indicate that the B7 RS4 saloon can accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometres per hour (0 to 62.1 mph) in 4.8 seconds,[4][5] and arrive at 0 to 200 kilometres per hour (0 to 124.3 mph) in 16.6 seconds.[4][5] Most European magazines recorded results in line with the November 2009 comparison of "ultimate sedans," in Road & Track, which recorded a 0 to 60 time of 4.5 seconds.[7] This is consistent with the pattern of conservatism that is usually found in Audi's official performance numbers. For the Avant, 0 to 100 kilometres per hour (0 to 62.1 mph) is reached in 4.9 seconds. Top speed for all variants is 'officially' electronically limited to 250 kilometres per hour (155.3 mph),[4][5] though some owners have reported that the speed limiter is rather 'liberal', conforming to the pattern of previous Audi "RS" cars, with genuine top speeds of 270 kilometres per hour (170 mph) being recorded. [edit] B7 bodywork and styling The B7 RS4 is an almost complete departure from previous Audi "RS" cars, as it was initially available as a four-door five-seat saloon/sedan;[4] with a five-door five-seat Avant (estate/wagon), and two-door four-seat Cabriolet (convertible) versions arriving later. Only the Audi RS6 had taken this similar route (saloon and Avant) before; the previous RS4 and RS2 were available exclusively as Avants. Constructed from fully galvanised steel[4] in a monocoque (unitary/unibody) design,[4] the B7 RS4 uses lightweight aluminium for its front wings (fenders) and bonnet (hood).[5] The saloon version features a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.31,[4] from a frontal area of 2.17 m2.[4] Like its B5 predecessor, visually, the B7 RS4 differs from its related B7 S4, having flared front and rear wheel arches (fenders),[5] to allow for a wider axle track. It also includes two larger frontal side air intakes[5] (for the two additional side-mounted coolant radiators). The new RS4 also includes an optional adaptive headlights to complement the standard "Xenon Plus"[5] (Bi-Xenon arc) High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps, which swivel around corners in conjunction with steering wheel movements. Also standard are daytime running lights (DRLs),[5] found within the main headlamp housings, identical to its related B7 A4 and S4, and use a conventional tungsten filament bulb. An acoustic parking system with front and rear sensors is also standard fitment.[5] Unique carbon fibre interior trims,[5] along with a lap timer within the central Driver Information System (DIS),[5] aluminium pedal caps and footrest,[5] and RS4 logos[5] complete the look. In the saloon, luggage space, measured according to the VDA 'block method',[4] is 460 litres (16.2 cu ft) with the rear seats in the upright position,[4] and 720 to 833 litres (25.4 to 29.4 cu ft) with the seats folded flat[4] (dependent on specification). For the Avant, 442 litres (15.6 cu ft) is available with the seats upright (under the retractable load cover), and 1,354 litres (47.8 cu ft) being available with the rear seats folded flat (loaded to the roofline). Kerb weight of the saloon variant starts at 1,650 kilograms (3,638 lb)[4] (dependent on specification). A BOSE ten-speaker sound system, with 190 Watt output and automatic dynamic noise compensation (which replaces the 'GALA' found on earlier units), with "Concert II" radio and single CD player is standard in car entertainment (ICE) equipment. Factory fitted ICE options to complement the standard BOSE include the "Symphony II"[5] system which features twin radio tuners, a single-slot loading six-CD changer and a cassette player all integrated into a double-DIN sized unit. Navigation option is the RNS-E "Audi Navigation System plus"[5] DVD-ROM GPS satellite navigation, which includes a folding widescreen 6.5-inch screen, two SD-memory card readers, and MMI-like logic control. [edit] B7 interior safety To achieve maximum body stiffness with controlled deformation crumple zones, the B7 RS4 features laser beam welding of major seams of the high-strength steel body shell, which helps improve overall structural rigidity, particularly in the 'passenger cell', over traditional spot welding methods. Two-stage driver and front seat passenger frontal airbags are standard,[5] as is Audi's "sideguard" head protection curtain airbag system.[5] This latter system completely covers all of the side windows, from the front 'A pillar' to the rear 'C-' or 'D pillars'.[5] The body-hugging Recaro shell-type RS race bucket seats (not available in North American markets), complete with electrically inflatable upper and lower side bolsters and adjustable lumbar support, are constructed so as not to need lower side airbags to comply with European crash safety standards.[5] In North America, the only front seats available are the more traditional Recaro seats, which include lower side airbags; these were also available as a no-cost option in other markets. Lower side airbags are optional for the Recaro rear seats. Front, and outer rear seatbelts include pyrotechnic belt pretensioners, whilst all belts include an excess load limit function. [edit] B7 powertrain At the heart of the B7 RS4 powertrain is its unique internal combustion engine. Started by an "Engine Start" button on centre console,[5] motive power comes from a 4.2 litre[8] – 4,163 cubic centimetres (254.0 cu in),[4][5] V8 engine.[4][5] This is a 32-valve (four valves per cylinder[4]) Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI)[5] all aluminium alloy petrol engine (parts code and version: 079.D, identification code: BNS). Fundamentally based on the existing all-alloy 4.2 V8 from the B6 S4,and sharing identical parts with the Audi Q7 engine. The RS4 engine has increased crankscase breathing,Vibrational Dampner,Fuel return system, Baffled oil pan(to prevent cavitation),Pistons & connecting rods, this all-new engine includes new cylinder block construction, and is a highly reworked, high-revving variant (redline at 8,000 rpm, rev limit of 8,250 rpm),[5] having cylinder-direct injection[4] (Fuel Stratified Injection), and four valves per cylinder (instead of five on the earlier variant). It has two roller chain-driven[5] double overhead camshafts[4] per cylinder bank (2xDOHC, or 'quad cam'), and utilises variable valve timing[9] for both inlet and exhaust camshafts,[4] along with a cast magnesium alloy fixed tract length intake manifold with adjustable tumble flaps. It produces a maximum output of 309 kilowatts (420 PS; 414 bhp) at 7,800 revolutions per minute[4] (rpm) whilst consuming 98 RON (93 AKI) Super-Unleaded petrol,[4] giving it a specific power output of 74.2 kW (100.9 PS; 99.5 bhp) per litre.[5] Based on a kerb weight of 1,680 kilograms (3,704 lb), this results in a power-to-weight ratio of just 3.93 kilos per bhp.[5] Should the lower 95 RON (91 AKI) standard unleaded fuel be used, this will have an effect of slightly reducing engine output, and therefore performance,[4] along with slightly worse fuel economy. This engine also produces 430 newton metres (317 ft·lbf) of torque at 5,500 rpm,[4][5] 90 percent of the total torque being available between 2,250 and 7,600 rpm.[5] The engines' waste gasses escape through two '4-into-2-into-1' fan-branch alloy steel exhaust manifolds and four high-flow metallic sports catalytic converters,[4] and exits via twin oval tail pipes with integral dynamic silencer/muffler valves. Engine management is controlled via two Bosch DI-Motronic[10] MED 9.1[4] electronic engine control units (working on the 'master/slave' concept, due to the high-revving nature of the engine), and utilises Bosch 'E-Gas'[11] electronic throttle control (also known as drive by wire), comprises throttle device, accelerator-pedal module, and ECU. The ignition system uses eight individual single-spark coils, utilising mapped direct ignition,[4] with Bosch or NGK long-life triple-electrode spark plugs. Ignition timing is monitored with the aid of four knock sensors. It is compliant with the Euro4 European emission standards,[4][5] with the saloon version producing a CO2 emissions output of 322-329 grams per kilometre (g/km),[4] whilst the Avant starts from 324 g/km. Until the Audi RS5 was presented at 2010 Geneva Motor Show, the Audi B7 RS4 remained the only "RS" Audi powered by a naturally-aspirated engine. A six-speed Getrag manual gearbox[4][5] (parts code: 0A3, identification codes: HLD, JHM) is the only transmission available (gear ratios - 1st: 3.667, 2nd: 2.211, 3rd: 1.520, 4th: 1.133, 5th: 0.919, 6th: 0.778).[4] Another focus of the B7 RS4 was on the introduction of the latest development of Audi's 'trademark' quattro permanent four-wheel drive system.[4][5] This utilised the 'third generation' asymmetric/dynamic[5] Torsen[4][5] T-3 'automatic torque biasing' (ATB) centre differential, featuring a 'default' 40:60 front-to-rear torque split under normal conditions. Audi stressed that this would result in a more neutral response in corners, and a more dynamic driving experience. Also, a more aggressive Torque Bias Ratio (TBR) was used, and set to 4:1, as opposed to 2:1 (and later variants 3:1 TBR) on standard A4.[citation needed] That means that one side of the differential can handle up to 80%, while the other side would have to only handle 20% of applied torque. Front and rear axle differentials are conventional "open" types, with a final drive ratio of 4.111.[4] Traction is assisted by way of Audis "Electronic Differential Lock" (EDL),[4][5] which is a specific function of the Robert Bosch GmbH ESP 8.0 Electronic Stability Programme system. EDL monitors the rotational speeds of the left and right wheels across an individual axle, and if one wheel should rotate faster than the other (exceeding the pre-defined parameters), indicating loss of traction, or "wheel spin" on one wheel, the EDL applies the brakes to that individual spinning wheel,[4] and thus results in transferring torque across the open differential to the wheel on the other side deemed to have grip, hence traction. Also included in the ESP 8.0 is "Anti Slip Regulation" (ASR) - Audis name for Traction Control System.[5] The result of all these features is, that under normal circumstances (driving straight on dry or even wet road surfaces) the car never loses traction, even when accelerating at full throttle in the first gear. [edit] B7 suspension and steering The B7 RS4 also incorporates Audi's "Dynamic Ride Control" (DRC)[5] "Sports Suspension"[5] mechanism. The dampers (shock absorbers) are made for Audi by KW, and central reservoirs/valves made by KYB (Kayaba). In the RS4 suspension, a fluid hydraulic linkage between diagonally opposing front and rear suspension dampers (left front to right rear, and vice-versa) is used to counteract vehicle pitch and roll.[5] Lightweight magnesium/aluminium alloy multi-link suspension arms (four arm with virtual steering axis up front,[4] and trapezoidal arm with unequal length track control arms at the rear)[4][5] locate each hub/brake/roadwheel assembly in a controllable fashion, whilst minimising unsprung masses. Lightweight hollow tubular anti-roll bars are standard front and rear.[4] Compared to standard B7 A4 models, the RS4 features a 30 millimetres (1.2 in) lower ride height.[5] An optional "Sports Suspension Plus"[5] lowers the car by a further 10 millimetres (0.4 in), and marginally further stiffens the damper rates. Axle track has also been increased over standard A4s; the front widened by 37 millimetres (1.5 in),[5] to 1,559 millimetres (61.4 in)[4] and the rear by 47 millimetres (1.9 in)[5] to 1,569 millimetres (61.8 in).[4] Speed sensitive "servotronic"[5] variable-assistance electro-hydraulic power assisted steering (PAS) is controlled from a compact flat-bottomed steering wheel, finished in perforated leather with mock-aluminium trim. The steering rack ratio is 13.1:1,[4] and the turning circle is 11.1 metres (36.42 ft).[4] [edit] B7 brakes, wheels and tyres Standard brakes on the RS4 consist of two-piece, cross-drilled,[4][5] radially ventilated[4][5] and floating[5] cast iron[5] brake discs, secured to aluminium alloy disc hubs.[5] The two-piece disc construction, with its lightweight alloy disc hub helps reduce unsprung masses,[5] and also helps to reduce the transmission of heat generated by the brakes to the wheel bearings. The front discs are sized at 365 millimetres (14.4 in) in diameter[5] by 34 millimetres (1.34 in) thick, and use gloss black Brembo monoblock eight-opposed piston fixed calipers.[4][5] These, along with the transmission, are supplied with a cooling airflow directed from NACA ducts[5] located in the engine front undertray. A lighter, and higher performing "Audi ceramic" front brake system - consisting of cross-drilled, radially vented and floating Carbon fibre-reinforced Silicon Carbide (C/SiC) composite SGL Carbon discs, sized at 380 millimetres (15.0 in) by 38 millimetres (1.50 in), with grey Brembo monoblock six-opposed piston fixed aluminium alloy calipers were an option from 2007 model year onwards (and only with 19 inch roadwheels). These have a much greater tolerance to thermal differences, virtually eliminating brake fade, and have a duration of five times greater than conventional iron discs. A further attribute of the Ceramic brakes is that they reduce unsprung mass by around 50%, and therefore improve steering response and overall handling as a result. Rear brakes are drilled, vented and floating 324 millimetres (12.8 in)[5] by 22 millimetres (0.87 in) iron discs, with gloss black Lucas-Girling TRW single piston floating calipers utilising an integrated mechanical handbrake mechanism. A specifically 'tuned'[5] "sport-biased" Bosch[12] ESP 8.0[5] Electronic Stability Programme[4] is standard, and includes Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)[4][5] and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD),[4][5] and Brake Assist (BA). This ESP system has three user-selectable settings – the standard default full protection mode, increased slip mode (which turns off the ASR and EDL), and ESP fully off. Another useful function of the ESP 8.0 is the inclusion of 'disc wiping', whereby the ESP system frequently but momentarilly applies the brakes during wet weather.[5] This effectively removes water from the disc and pad surfaces, and helps maintain braking performance of dry weather.[5] This operation is undetectable by the driver.[5] In the UK and Japan, standard roadwheels are 19 inch alloy wheels[5] (9Jx19" ET29 "7-arm double spoke") with 255/35 ZR19 96Y XL[5] (eXtraLoad) high performance tyres. This 19" wheel and tyre package was an option for the North American,[5] and some European markets. Factory supplied tyres included Continental SportContact 3, Michelin Pilot Sport PS2, or Pirelli P-Zero Rosso – although many owners have questioned the load-carrying abilities of the Pirellis (from unexplained sidewall failures and dubious dynamic stability), opting for the more durable Michelins at replacement time. A no-cost option of 18 inch alloy wheels (8½Jx18" ET24 "5-spoke design"[4][5]) with 255/40 ZR18 Y XL tyres[4] was also available, and these are standard in North American markets.[5] A 19" winter wheel and tyre package was also available as an option, and included 255/35 R19 96V Dunlop SP WinterSport 3D tyres. A direct-acting Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is standard fitment.[5] This system monitors the actual pressure in all four tyres every three seconds,[5] and should any loss in pressure be detected, both an audible and visual warnings are given to alert the driver in a timely manner.[5] [edit] Other B7 notable features Other notable features to be found as standard equipment on cars for the European, South African, Japanese and Australia/New Zealand markets – which are not available in the North American market – are the smaller, flat bottomed steering wheel (complete with "Sport" button),[5] and the body-hugging Recaro shell-type race bucket seats, complete with electrically inflatable upper and lower side bolsters.[5] [edit] B7 crash testing The North American Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash tested the B7 RS4s sibling, the B7 A4, and awarded it "Double Best Pick" for frontal and side crashes - beating illustrious rivals such as the BMW 3 Series, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and even the Volvo S60.[citation needed] [edit] B7 awards The Audi B7 RS4 won the Top Gear 'Car of the Year Award 2005', and the Ward's '2005 Auto Interior of the Year' award. In 2007, the Audi RS4 was the winner in the "World Performance Car" category of the International World Car of the Year (WCOTY). It beat illustrious rivals, including its larger sibling, the Audi C6 S6, the Porsche 911 Turbo, Porsche 911 GT3, Ferrari 599 GTB, and Jaguar XKR.[citation needed] [edit] Motorsport [edit] Speed World Challenge The B7 RS4 was planned to replace the C5 RS6 in the SCCA Speed World Challenge, but after Champion Racing had prepared the car, it was decided not to compete in the series, due to rule changes imposed by the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) on Audi concerning 4WD systems, wheels size, and engine power output. Rather than scrapping the fully-built Speed World Challenge RS4, Champion and Audi used the car as a part of the American Le Mans Series Vitesse Program, which highlights the technology link between race cars and conventional series production road cars.[13] [edit] Euro Superstars Steven Goldstein at the wheel of a race-prepared RS4 Six RS4s are openly campaigned in the Superstars Series by Audi Sport Italia. Audi RS4 quattro driver Gianni Morbidelli won the 2008 championship. [edit] See also Wikimedia Commons has media related to: Audi RS4 Audi S and RS models Audi A4 (includes information on the factory-developed V8-powered A4 DTM race cars) Audi S4 Audi S6 Audi RS6 [edit] References ^ "Audi Self-Study Programme SSP245 - Audi RS4 (B5)". AUDI AG.  ^ Bosch Automotive Technology Motronic for manifold injection ^ Bosch Automotive Technology Electronic throttle control (ETC/EGAS) for manifold injection ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al am an ao ap aq ar as at au av aw ax ay az ba bb bc bd be "Audi RS 4 Saloon - Technical Data" (MS Word document). AUDI AG. Fortitude.com. February 2005. http://www.fourtitude.com/resources/downloads/documents/rs4_tech_data.doc. Retrieved 14 September 2009.  ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al am an ao ap aq ar as at au av aw ax ay az ba bb bc bd be bf bg bh bi bj bk bl bm bn bo bp bq br bs bt bu bv bw "Geneva Motor Show: Audi RS4 - The Sports Car for 365 Days a Year". AUDI AG. VWvortex.com - Audi News. 1 March 2005. http://www.vwvortex.com/cgi-bin/artman/exec/view.cgi?archive=7&num=1225&printer=1. Retrieved 14 September 2009.  ^ "'quattro Night' - B7 RS4 world introduction". AudiWorld. AudiWorld.com. 27 February 2005. http://www.audiworld.com/news/05/quattronight/content.shtml. Retrieved 7 January 2010.  ^ Kott, Douglas (2009.11.02). "Ultimate Sedan Comparison". Road & Track. http://www.roadandtrack.com/tests/comparison/ultimate_sedan_comparison/ultimate_sedan_comparison_3a_audi_rs_4_page_4. Retrieved 2010-04-18  ^ "Audi 4.2-liter V8 FSI Engine - Self-Study Programme 921603". Audi of America, Inc., Service Training. July 2006.  ^ Bosch Automotive Technology Variable valve timing ^ Bosch Automotive Technology DI-Motronic for direct gasoline injection ^ Bosch Automotive Technology Electronic throttle control (ETC/EGAS) for direct gasoline injection ^ Bosch Automotive Technology Electronic Stability Programme ESP ^ "Hot Laps at Miller: The ALMS Vitesse Program". AudiWorld. AudiWorld.com. 18 May 2007. http://www.audiworld.com/news/07/alms-vitesse-rs4/content.shtml. Retrieved 7 January 2010.  [edit] External links Audi.com official corporate website "Sinister Beauty" an official Audi UK microsite Audi B7 RS4 test drive and review at AudiWorld.com v • d • e Audi — a marque of the Volkswagen Group Volkswagen Group marques & companies Volkswagen Passenger Cars • Audi • quattro GmbH • SEAT • Škoda • Lamborghini • Bentley • Bugatti • Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles • Scania defunct Audi AG brands Auto Union • Horch • DKW • Wanderer • NSU see also list of Volkswagen Group factories • list of Volkswagen Group platforms • MLP • list of Volkswagen Group petrol engines • list of Volkswagen Group diesel engines • discontinued petrol engines • discontinued diesel engines • North American engines • quattro • multitronic • S tronic • procon-ten • MMI • Audi hybrid vehicles • Audi S and RS models current Audi passenger car range A1 • A3 • S3 • A4 • S4 • A4 allroad quattro • A5 • S5 • A6 • S6 • RS6 • A6 allroad quattro • A7 • A8 • S8 • TT • Q5 • Q7 • R8 historic and discontinued models Audi Front • Audi 920 • Audi F103 • Audi 50 • Audi 80/90/4000/5+5 • Audi Quattro (Ur-Quattro) • Audi Coupé GT • Audi Coupé quattro • Audi 4000CS quattro • Audi 100/200/5000 • Audi S2 • Audi RS2 Avant • Audi Ur-S4 & Ur-S6 • Audi V8 • Audi A2 • Audi Cabriolet • Audi RS4 motor racing cars rally cars: Quattro A1 & A2 • Sport Quattro • Sport Quattro S1 • LMP road race cars: R8R • R8C • R8 • R10 TDI • R15 TDI • R18 • LMS/GT road race cars: R8 LMS (R16) • Formula cars (engine suppliers): FPA • F2 concept cars Avus quattro • Rosemeyer • Steppenwolf • Avantissimo • Pikes Peak quattro • Nuvolari quattro • Le Mans quattro • RSQ • Shooting Brake • Roadjet • A3 TDI clubsport quattro • Sportback concept • R8 TDi Le Mans • e-tron (Frankfurt) • e-tron (Detroit) • e-tron Spyder • quattro concept founder: August Horch • Audi corporate website • A marque of the Volkswagen Group • Vorsprung durch Technik • Audi Channel • Audi Driving Experience v • d • e Audi timeline, European market, 1970s–present — a marque of the Volkswagen Group type / class 1970s 1980s 1990s 2000s 2010s 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 supermini 50 A2 A1 small family car A3 / S3 compact executive car F103 series 80 (B1) 80 / 90 (B2) 80 / 90 (B3) 80 (B4) A4 (B5) A4 (B6) A4 (B7) A4 (B8) S2 S4 (B5) S4 (B6) S4 (B7) S4 (B8) mid-size executive car 100 / 200 A6 (C4) A6 (C5) A6 (C6) Ur-S4 (C4) Ur-S6 (C4) S6 (C5) S6 (C6) large luxury car V8 A8 (D2) A8 (D3) A8 (D4) S8 (D2) S8 (D3) small coupé TT Coupé (8N) TT Coupé (8J) small roadster TT Roadster (8N) TT Roadster (8J) mid-size coupé 100 Coupé S Coupé GT Coupé A5 Coupé quattro S5 mid-size convertible Cabriolet (B4) A4 Cabriolet A5 Cab S4 Cab (B6) S4 Cab (B7) S5 Cab large coupé A7 executive sports car Quattro (Ur-Quattro) RS2 Avant RS4 (B5) RS4 (B7) RS6 (C5) RS6 (C6) sports car R8 crossover SUV A4 allroad quattro (B8) allroad quattro (C5) A6 allroad quattro (C6) mid-size SUV Q5 large SUV Q7 homologation road / rally car Quattro A1 & A2 Sport Quattro Sport Quattro S1 founder: August Horch • Audi corporate website • A marque of the Volkswagen Group • quattro GmbH • Audi S and RS models • Audi Centre of Excellence • Audi Channel • Audi Driving Experience v • d • e Audi timeline, North American market, 1980–present — a marque of the Volkswagen Group type 1980s 1990s 2000s 2010s 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 compact luxury car A3 4000 (B2) 80 / 90 (B3) 90 (B4) A4 (B5-B8) 4000 CS quattro S4 (B5-B8) mid-size luxury car 5000 (C2) 100 / 200 / 5000 (C3) 100 / A6 (C4) A6 (C4-C6) Ur-S4 Ur-S6 S6 (C5) S6 (C6) A7 full-size car V8 A8 / S8 coupé Coupé GT CQ (3) A5 / S5 small coupé TT Coupé (8N) TT Coupé (8J) small roadster TT Roadster (8N) TT Roadster (8J) convertible Cabriolet (B4) A4 Cabriolet / S4 Cabriolet A5 Cab / S5 Cab sports car Quattro (Ur-Quattro) RS6 RS4 R8 compact crossover SUV Q5 mid size crossover SUV allroad quattro A6 allroad quattro full size crossover SUV Q7 founder: August Horch • Audi corporate website • A marque of the Volkswagen Group • quattro GmbH • Audi S and RS models • Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. • Volkswagen Group of America corporate website • Electronics Research Laboratory • North American Volkswagen engines • Audi Driving Experience || HOME CLASSIFIEDS Audi RS4 Classifieds Search Submit Advert Manage my Ads Help/FAQ Dealer Info Tools Email Notifications My Bookmarks Resources Fraud Warnings HPI Check Car Saving Plan Car Finance Car Insurance Car Servicing Car Warranty Number Plate Search Feeds List Gallery Map Filter Show: Sort: PostCode: previous123456789next AUDI RS4 RS 4 QUATTRO 4DR �(2007) 78,000 miles, BLACK Saloon. 4163cc Manual. Black, MOT-04-2011. Full Audi Service History, 1 Owner From New, Full Black Leather Seats, Audi Navigation System, Sports Bucket ... Full�Details Stock List London Hiltop Motors LTD �25,995 � AUDI RS4 4.2 quattro �(2007) 29,885 miles, Silver Metallic 4 Door Saloon 4163cc Petrol Manual Audi RS4 4.2 quattro finished in Silver metallic with black leather interior Specification includes Driver ... Full�Details Stock List London Finchley Road Audi �28,950 2007 AUDI RS4 CONVERTIBLE DAMAGED FULLY REPAIRED CAT D RARE COLOUR 44K �(2007) 44,000 miles, # ### BARGAIN ***THIS IS THE CHEAPEST*** 07 REG RS4 CONVERTIBLE IN THE COUNTRY !!!!!! OPTIC PACK RARE CAR WITH EVERY EXTRA WHAT A SPEC !!!!!! 2 DOORS 6 ... PX:�at trade value Full�Details england Premium Advert �24,000 21 hours AUDI RS4 4.2V8. 450+BHP TOP SPEC TV/BUCKET SEATS/XENONS/MILTEK EXHAUST �(2006) 49,500 miles, 6 Speed Manual. This car has been professionally vinyl wrapped in Gloss white with carbon roof by totally-dynamic.co.uk which is warranted, Phantom Black paint underneath, ... Full�Details Derbysire Premium Advert �27,995 1 days Audi RS4 Quattro Convertible �(2008) 18,213 miles, AUDI RS4 Quattro Cabriolet, 2 Doors, Manual, Cabriolet, Petrol, 2008 58 Reg, 18000 miles, Metallic Black. ABS, Alloy wheels, Cruise control, Front centre armrest, Headlight ... Full�Details Stock List Colne Lloyd MINI Colne �40,995 � AUDI RS4 Avant 4.2 quattro Avant �(2007) 37,850 miles, Phantom Black Pearl Effect 5 Door Estate 4163cc Petrol Manual Audi RS4 4.2 quattro Avant finished in phantom black pearl effect with black leather interior ... Full�Details Stock List Hatfield Hatfield Audi �31,950 Audi RS4 4.2 V8 FSi Quattro �(2007) 39,700 miles, Stunning RS4 in Daytona Grey Pearl with Black Leather Sports Seats, DVD Satellite Navigation, Sports Steering Wheel, Audi Parking System (Front/Rear), Bose Surround Sound, ... Full�Details Stock List Stansted, Essex auto union trading co �30,950 Audi RS4 �(2006) 1 miles, Any Saloon. 4.2 litre, Manual. 06 Registration. We want to buy your RS4. If you are thinking of selling or part exchanging your new shape RS4 (Saloon, ... Full�Details Stock List Iver, Buckinhamshire Fontain Motors Ltd �25,000 � Audi RS4 RS 4 Quattro �(2006) 60,000 miles, Any Colour Saloon. 4.2 litre, Manual. 06 Registration. If you are looking to sell your RS4 then look no further. We are the ultimte buyers of RS4 Saloons, ... Full�Details Stock List Hook Hampshire Sports and Prestige Cars �25,000 RS4 4.2 Quattro Saloon (Sat Nav) �(2007) 36,515 miles, Alloy Wheels Climate Control Full Leather Electric Sunroof Bose Parking Sensor Cruise Control Satellite Navigation Xenon Headlamps Heated Seats 36515 Miles ... Full�Details Stock List Small Dole Nr Henfield(West Sussex) Tempest 4 Cars �26,990 TIM HARVEY'S 2006 RS4 FOR SALE 451BHP! �(2006) 49,800 miles, Having won the Porsche Carrera Cup again this year, and with it a new 911, I'm reluctantly selling my beloved RS4. AUDI RS4 SALOON 2006 (06) ... PX:�NO Full�Details OXON Premium Advert �26,500 3 days RS4 SALOON RS4 Quattro �(2007) 27,059 miles, Sprint Blue Pearl Saloon. 4200cc Petrol, Manual. GSM mobile phone prep on dashboard with hands free/bluetooth interface/roof mounted aerial,6 CD autochanger in ... Full�Details Stock List Huddersfield Huddersfield Audi �32,850 � RS4 SALOON RS4 Quattro �(2007) 24,051 miles, Sprint Blue Pearl Saloon. 4200cc Petrol, Manual. Satellite navigation system Plus + single CD/MP3 radio,Auto boot lid opening,6 CD autochanger in ... Full�Details Stock List Middlesex West London Audi �34,850 Audi RS4 �(2007) 45,000 miles, Daytona Grey with Black Valcona Leather Bucket Seats, DVD Navigation, Black Optic Pack, Auto Dimming Rear View Mirror, Front Centre Armrest, iPod Connection, GSM Bluetooth ... Full�Details Stock List Surrey Romans International �29,950 Audi RS4 RS4 QUATTRO 5DR 4.2 AVANT �(2007) 44,000 miles, Black Estate Petrol Manual Cruise Control, Heated Seats, Roof Rails, Sports Seats, Centre Armrest, Metallic Paintwork, Lumbar Support, 5 Doors, Manual, Estate, ... Full�Details Stock List Essex Saxton 4x4 �26,950 previous123456789next Term & Conditions Hosted by Carrenza Copyright � PistonHeads.com � 1998-2010 || BrowseUpload Create AccountSign In Search BMW M5 vs. Audi RS4 totallydutch 24 videos Subscribe Subscribed Sign In or Sign Up now! Loading... Upgrade to Flash Player 10 for improved playback performance. Upgrade Now or More Info. close 1,589,040 Like Add to Share Embed Short URL Email MySpace orkut hi5 Blogger Live Spaces Bebo StumbleUpon Loading... This feature is not available right now. Please try again later. Sign In or Sign Up now! totallydutch | August 08, 2006 | 1,561 likes, 307 dislikes Nice little race between a BMW M5 and an Audi RS4. The obvious winner is the ... totallydutch | August 08, 2006 | 1,561 likes, 307 dislikes Nice little race between a BMW M5 and an Audi RS4. The obvious winner is the Audi, which by the way also owns the BMW in looks. Category: Autos & Vehicles Tags: bmw m5 audi rs4 race public street Link to this comment: Share to: Highest Rated Comments el5pk 1 month ago 20 this is probably one of the best, if the the best, highway race on youtube. so pro. el5pk 1 month ago 20 jessica01412 2 days ago 8 hehsearchIng for a Guy that will make me go wild jessica01412 2 days ago 8 see all All Comments (2,272) Respond to this video... Sign In or Sign Up now to post a comment! dzenis11 1 day ago whatthe name of the song please ??? dzenis11 1 day ago silviubahnovei 3 days ago @MurdaINCBaller this is in russia!!!! silviubahnovei 3 days ago CheetohMoney 3 days ago LOL, I love reading the comments from all of you nutswingers! These "Pro" drivers are complete asswipes, pure and simple! Take it to the track and kill yourselves! CheetohMoney 3 days ago akoellin 4 days ago @mcmanus1806 looking at his inside mirror i don´t think it´s a M5..... akoellin 4 days ago akoellin 4 days ago @mcmanus1806 looking at his inside mirror i don´t think it´s a M5..... akoellin 4 days ago olek118 5 days ago MurdaINCBaller what a fuckin idiot buahahahah olek118 5 days ago Mokryinho 5 days ago .What do you want?They really can drive and you all saw this on this film. many of you can drive like they,but you afraid to say this.This my opinion. Sth from me: I can drive,but I would like to drive once day like you Mokryinho 5 days ago span89 1 week ago epic race is epic. span89 1 week ago MurdaINCBaller 1 week ago @Ewoodster DUDE SHUT THE FUCK UP!!! YOU PROBABLY JUST LOOK TO THE OTHER 50000 PEOPLE WHO SENT ME THE SAME THING ALRIGHNT!???? SO FUCK YOU I KNOW I MADE A MISTAKE DUDE JUST SHUT UP AND DONT REPLY> WAT A GREAT WAY TO WATE YOUR TIME> MurdaINCBaller 1 week ago View all Comments » 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Next Reply Block UserUnblock User Loading... Suggestions 3:05 Add to Added to queueHD: Audi RS4 vs BMW M3 V8 6-speedby m5boarddotcomFeatured Video126,535 views 3:04 Add to Added to queueAudi RS6 Vs. 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Load more suggestions This video has been added to your Favorites. This video has been removed from your Favorites. You dislike this video. Thanks for the feedback! “” results Loading... About Press & Blogs Copyright Creators & Partners Advertising Developers Help Safety Privacy Terms Report a bug Language: English Location: Worldwide Safety mode: Off Loading... Queue (0) Options Clear all videos from your Queue More information about this playlist Learn more Your queue is empty. Add videos to your queue using this button: or sign in to load a different list.Loading...Saving... Add to queue Sign in to add this to a playlist || MSN HomeHotmailMy MSNSign Inhimmoneytech & gadgetsvideoHotmailMessengerMy MSNMSN DirectoryCareers & JobsCarsCelebrityDating & PersonalseBayGamesHimHoroscopesLife & StyleLocalMaps from BingMobileMoneyMoviesMusicNational LotteryNewsShoppingSportTech & GadgetsTravelTVVideoWeatherWindows Live carsBing search: Make MSN UK your homepageHomeNewsFeaturesCar ReviewsCar GuidePhotosVideoUsed Car ListingsInsuranceFinanceNumber PlatesWarrantiesMotorsportBlogDan Trent, MSN Cars, Contributor, 01/04/2010 15:0830 Fast Audi QuattrosPlayPauseSlowMediumFastView first imageAudi ImageAudi's Quattro is 30 years old this year, this pioneering turbocharged coupe changing the face of rallying and spawning three decades' worth of fast, four-wheel drive Audis.Indeed, the total number of fast cars built by Audi in the last three decades is astounding, to the point that whittling down our selection to have one car for each of these years was a challenge!Huge performance, discreet looks, understated quality and - of course - the security of all-wheel drive traction underpin all 30 of the cars shown here. But within that selection there is incredible variety.We've got the famous five-cylinder turbo cars, V6s with turbos and superchargers, V8s, V10s and even a V12 diesel. They're all fabulous cars of course, any one of which we'd be happy to call our own...PlayPauseSlowMediumFastView first image Rate this page: Poor Thank you for rating. ExcellentYour rating helps other users gauge the value of a page Thank you for rating. PrintE-mailShare it:Del.icio.usDiggFacebookGoogleLive SpacesMySpaceNewsvineRedditStumbleuponTechnoratiTwitterYahoo! My Web... opens a new window Join the discussion!Add a commentShow commentsSort by: 1-4 of 4PreviousNextFlip900 #107 April 2010 22:48:42Why not get the photo's to match the descriptions? Some of the 1st few were wrong so lost interest after that!! If you need someone who can put articles together properly then email me :)ReplyReport Abusecar bore #202 April 2010 22:48:32picture 2 and picture 4: You've got them the wrong way round! Picture 2 is an audi 100/200 and picture 4 is an audi 80/90 (specifically the audi 90)ReplyReport AbuseHydragas #302 April 2010 09:28:55For those who will argue that there is only one true Audi Quattro, click on the Wikipedia link below and roll back your mind to yesteryear when cars were manly. Remember the hill climb races with those 600bhp Group B mad machines ?!   http://en.wikipedia.​​org/wiki/Audi_Quattr​​oReplyReport Abusestumpy90 #402 April 2010 08:21:07I just wanted to add to your article.   I used to own an Audi V8, 4.2 Quattro a few years ago whilst living in Germany, mine was one of the last of the line, a 92 exclusive model with all the whistles and bells normally placed on end of run production models.   Plus points are exclusivity, luxury, seamless power, mine was unrestricted and good for an indicated 170mph on the autobahn.   Minus points, truly horrendous fuel consumption, mine was regularly serviced and still only managed to achieve around 20mpg at best and 8mpg around town and down to about 2mpg when really giving it the beans all combined with a group 20 insurance bracket   Servicing cost's, which coincidently was the deciding factor which caused us to part ways, I was quoted by an official Audi dealer @£3500 for a 70k mile service, this included cam belts to be changed and as mentioned before  the car was a last of the line production run so it was fitted with the brakes from the models used in German Touring Car racing Series, so inboard disks and callipers with brake pads at £200 pound per wheel station!However having said it was a money pit, what does one expect when buying a flagship car?   My time with the V8 was an enjoyable one and i don't regret ownership of this iconic car for one moment, to summarise, should you have a hankering for one of theses cars and you can find one in the UK, go on give in to temptation and give your wife and bank manager a scare, they truly are tremendous fun if a little frightening on the running costs! ReplyReport Abuse1-4 of 4PreviousNextAre you sure you want to delete this comment?Report AbusePlease help us to maintain a healthy and vibrant community by reporting any illegal or inappropriate behaviour. If you believe a message violates theCode of Conductplease notify us using the Report abuse form below. We will investigate your report and take appropriate action against offenders. We report all illegal activity to authorities.CategoriesSpam or advertisingChild pornography or exploitationProfanity, vulgarity or obscenityCopyright infringementHarassment or threatOtherAdditional comments(optional) 100 character limit To add a comment, pleasesign-inLatest hot storiesDream cars money can’t buyBMW 1 Series M CoupéCelebrity motoring mishapsBest first cars for teenagers22 of the UK's fastest speedersChevrolet Orlando (2011 onwards)advertisement Videos MSN Cars top five searches...Sporty 4x4s:Porsche CayenneBMW X6Infiniti EX37Range Rover SportNissan MuranoMSN Cars poll Enable JavaScript to see this poll. Which is YOUR favourite new car of 2010?Thanks for being one of the first people to vote. Results will be available soon. 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It goes something like this: a new hot Audi is launched, with class-leading power, huge cross-country pace and the sort of pumped-up, hunkered-down appearance of a heavyweight boxer in a slim-cut Savile Row suit. Meanwhile, the ageing, down-on-power BMW M3 saunters quietly alongside and slowly but surely picks the latest and greatest Audi apart piece by agonising piece, in so doing reaffirming itself as the ultimate all-rounder. To add insult to injury, a few months later a brand new M3 will usually be launched, the segment redefined, and Audi (and the rest) must start the inevitable game of catch-up. As sure as night follows day, the M3 will always be a step ahead of the competition. Untouchable, delectable and deeply desirable. The spec sheet suggests little has changed with the launch of the new Audi RS4. It has 414bhp to the M3's 338bhp. The quattro system is more sophisticated than ever and channels the monster power to four broad 255/35 R19 contact patches. That's the cross-country pace taken care of. Then there's the appearance that's so tough you hardly dare look it straight in the piercing xenon eye. So far, so predictable... But it's in the detail that the RS4 seems to be going seriously off book. That quattro system now has a distinct rear bias (40:60), all the better for balance and interactivity. The 4.2-litre, 48-valve, normally-aspirated V8 engine could have been developed within the walls of BMW's M Division such is its free-revving nature (the rev-limiter halts the madness at 8250rpm) and creamy-smooth yet unmistakably hard-edged voice. This is a new sort of fast Audi, and having tasted its potential in Italy (evo 085) we were desperate to find out if the cycle had finally been broken. Has Audi really torn-up the script and built a car to surpass the mighty, iconic, and - with the introduction of the CS package - better-than-ever M3? The Audi-versus-BMW battle is the main event, no question, but we've also brought along a Mercedes C55 AMG. Often overlooked, the C55 is surprisingly nimble to drive and awesomely fast. Its 5.5-litre V8 thumps out 367bhp and enough torque to take chunks out of freshly-laid tarmac. Think of it as an SLK55 with a fixed roof and four seats. And without the image problem. Make no mistake, the C55 has the potential to give both RS4 and M3 CS a serious run for their money. We're in Wales, where else? Okay, we're not exactly getting in the spirit of Audi's attempt to explore uncharted territories and hit new highs but, a bit like the M3, the roads that criss-cross North Wales are the benchmark against which all others must be judged. When you want definitive answers to the big questions, there's nowhere better to seek them. So, the stage is set: £49,980, 414bhp, 4.2-litre V8 RS4 head-to-head with £43,555, 338bhp, 3.2-litre straight-six M3 CS and £48,790, 367bhp, 5.5-litre V8 Mercedes C55 AMG.The M3 looks the best value, but such is the ubiquity of BMW's searing baby on the used market that the lower initial outlay will quickly be negated with tumbling residuals. These three are perfectly matched. Parked side-by-side, all three cars gently pulsing to the beat of their potent engines and gradually shedding the thick layer of ice that's clinging to their bulging bodywork, it's the Audi that punches out of the fog and demands your attention. Of course, it's the least familiar, which lends it an air of mystery, but the beautiful multi-spoke alloys, bold face and heavily swollen arches combine to make the sober C55 look, well... limp. Even the M3 seems to be cowering in the RS4's presence. While road test assistant Hayman draws on his tenth cigarette of the morning, and Roger Green discusses the shoot-list with photographer Morgan, I jump into the Audi's hot seat... Ah, heated seats. Don't you just love 'em? The RS4 is soon up to temperature. As we thread along the narrow roads that will soon open up, climb, fall, flick, swoop and generally do their best impression of an Alton Towers roller coaster, there's no question I've chosen the right car. The seats are wonderfully gripping and supportive, the funky flat-bottomed steering wheel perfectly positioned. The cabin feels worth every one of those fifty thousand pounds. Nobody does this sort of thing better than Audi. More surprising is the RS4's ability to glide over nasty ridges and clumsy surface 'repairs' with impeccable wheel control and no hint of kickback through the steering. It feels light on its feet and even at modest speeds the chassis has a balance and responsiveness that immediately sets it apart from any other Audi I've driven. It's big brother, the mighty RS6, feels like a ballistic steamroller by comparison; all muscle and no subtlety. Clearly the RS4 signals a new philosophy for sporting Audis. We swap cars at the Shell station in Betws-y-Coed (which must be one of the most profitable petrol stations in Britain. Behind the counter, there's a photo of one of their better days: a line-up of Enzo, F50, 288GTO and F40, with one John Barker feeding them Optimax). I now find myself in the C55 AMG, chasing the RS4. The roads are still slick with morning dew, and despite the bellowing 5.5-litre V8 shoehorned into its engine bay, the C55 has no meaningful reply to the RS4's awesome combination of immense grip and ferocious power. Incredibly, when you think of Mercedes integrity just a handful of years ago, the C55's interior feels cheap after the supreme quality and cool design of the RS4. The plastics are hopeless and the dash is a mess of tiny buttons with indecipherable legends. The C-class may be in the winter of its life, but the RS4 makes it feel obsolete already. Still, with the RS4 long gone I can concentrate on just what the C55 has to offer as a driving experience. The ride isn't as settled as the Audi's: the damping feels slightly less controlled and there's certainly more body-roll and pitch. The steering has a dead patch either side of neutral but then weights-up nicely, and although it's by no means the most feelsome of systems it does start to feel more accurate the quicker you go. Like all AMG products, it's the engine that really defines the C55's character. It doesn't rev to the heavens like the RS4's V8, but in the mid-range you can feel the advantage of that extra displacement. Any throttle movement is rewarded with an instant, neck-snapping response, and the thick seam of torque morphs effortlessly into an anarchic, almost shocking top-end. The Mercedes' bombastic mid-range delivery makes even the RS4's mighty power unit feels like a VTEC. The C55 may have just five gears and be hampered by a conventional torque-converter auto, but it's clear that in a straight line fight it's anything but outmoded. With the winter sun burning the early- morning fog from the sky and rapidly drying the road surface, perhaps the Mercedes will start to shine. It seems that the M3 CS already is. Hayman drove the car across to Wales last night and was keen to stick with it this morning. 'After the fantastic memories of our Car of the Year test, I have to say it felt a little ordinary yesterday,' he sighs. Fortunately there's more: 'Up here it's incredible, though. Even in these conditions and with its power deficit, it can happily match the RS4. And the balance is just so good.' Sounds like the cue to reacquaint myself with an old friend... Where's all the power gone? Ah, there it is - much higher up the rev-range. And what a noise! All high-tech, high-displacement fizz and crackle. Incredible throttle-response, too. The CS feels light, razor-sharp, almost devoid of inertia compared to the lazy Mercedes, and against expectations the M3 has more faithful front-end grip than even the RS4. That's the advantage of having a straight-six tucked well back in the engine bay rather than a V8 slung out ahead of the front wheels. Activate M Track mode with a prod of the button on the tactile suede-rimmed steering wheel, and you're allowed more slip before the traction and stability systems call a halt to the fun, enabling you to use that strong front-end grip to feel your way into the M3's immensely gifted chassis. There's less torque than a thumping V8 produces, but the payoff is superb traction. Even pinning the throttle from the apex of greasy third-gear corners fails to excite the relaxed stability system. The rear will move a few degrees when you're deep into the power-band and really leaning on the Michelin Pilot Sports, but as it does so the information from the steering (the CS benefits from the quicker, more feelsome CSL rack) and through the seat cushion almost draws a picture in your mind of the car's attitude - it's like an out-of-body experience. Stay committed and the CS scythes cleanly through the corner, totally balanced, completely hooked-up. When you're dialled-in to the chassis and really nail a road in the M3 it's so unhurried, so serene. You could almost set it to music. I love this car. Roger Green has had his fun in the M3, too. But emerging from the RS4 he seems like a man with something to get off his chest. 'It's just so fast. The engine is a monster, and the way it deals with nasty roads is very un-Audi-like. The gearchange is fantastic, the steering smooth and consistent. And those eight-pot brakes are superb. Phwoar!' He likes it, then. And the Merc? Hayman didn't get off to a great start with it. He didn't realise you have to engage 'M' on the transmission tunnel for the steering-wheel-mounted up- and downshift buttons to work faithfully, and kept finding himself fully committed mid-corner only for the 'box to kickdown, the tail to snap sideways and the ESP to clumsily tidy things up. Now enlightened (he only had to ask) he's warming to it. 'Incredible torque,' he says, 'nice steering feel once you're up to speed, and although it rolls a bit at modest speeds, the body control is actually very crisp when you're on it.' I'm pretty much in agreement with the Haymanator. In fact I'm unexpectedly falling for the C55. It's so full of character you can almost forgive it the dodgy interior and staid lines. And despite a more understeery initial balance than either RS4 or stubbornly neutral M3, it's very easy to impose your own will on the car. The ESP can't be switched off completely, though, which is annoying on track or even on bone-dry, well-sighted roads, but on damp, leaf-strewn tarmac the system is perfectly judged in its most lenient setting (just prod the ESP button and watch for the yellow triangle glowing on the dash). One particular corner illustrates the point perfectly. An uphill left taken in third and blind until the apex. Coax the front tyres onto line, feed in some power and immediately the V8 takes the modest-looking Pirelli rubber to its limit, the tail edging out enough to require just a flick of opposite lock. Keep a steady throttle and the C55 stays up on its toes, gently drifting, ESP allowing free rein. As you crest the rise and see the road ahead is empty, a bit more gas adds to the angle. Too much and the ESP recovers the slide. Get it right, though, and the C55 dances with a delicious angle until the road straightens. Then it explodes along the next straight in one violent lunge. Few cars have such a grin factor. So, the M3 CS is, as we discovered last month, a truly bewitching car. More surprisingly, the C55 is getting under our skin, too. But the RS4 has a kind of magnetic draw. You can often hear it tearing towards its redline, even when you're wringing the neck of one of the other cars, and especially if the Audi's driver has hit the 'S' button, freeing the exhaust, sharpening the engine's response to your right foot and increasing the seat's grip on your torso. It's a tight, metallic howl, cutting through the cold air with a fervour that even the screaming M Power straight-six can't muster. Let's break down the constituent parts that set the RS4 apart from other hot Audis. First and foremost there's the linear steering response. It's still a Servotronic set-up and perhaps just a shade on the light side, but unlike, say, the S4, the changes in assistance as your speed varies are imperceptible. The manual 'box is slick and positive, and the brakes are exceptional (the eight-piston front callipers grip 365mm discs), displaying none of the hyper-sensitivity that often makes Audis tricky to meld with. It all feels just right. The engine is one of the greats. At low revs there's ample response (unless you've just stepped out of a C55), and it feels genuinely muscular even when lugging at 2000-3000rpm. At 5000rpm you're flying, and then, just when most V8s are starting to huff and puff under the strain, the RS4 kicks again and hammers on to 8250rpm. Never once does it feel overstressed or unenthusiastic. It gives the RS4 a soul. That the chassis not only contains the V8's muscle, but actually encourages you to cling on to every last rev and search out every scrap of horsepower, is a testament to the latest incarnation of the quattro drivetrain and the clever pitch- and roll-reducing DRC (Dynamic Ride Control) suspension system. That it very rarely feels nose-heavy or doggedly understeery is vindication of the decision to send more of the power to the rear wheels. Here's an Audi with a nice neutral balance and genuine nimbleness. How long have we waited to say that? So it kills the M3 CS, then? Well, not quite. At eight-tenths the RS4 feels exceptional, and even when pushed to its very limits it retains much of its composure. However, it's still true to the Audi philosophy, which means it will always look after you first and foremost, even when you just want a bit of entertainment. Towards the end of two days of fantastic driving it's fair to say that our collective confidence is up and our pace has escalated. Suddenly the RS4 doesn't feel so impregnable. The ride, so unflustered and reassuring until now, deteriorates as our commitment grows. The body control starts to betray that peculiar engine position with slightly clumsy crashing where before it had glided. It's very busy under braking, too - somewhat unexpected considering the car's inherent stability. And ultimately, despite the clever four-wheel-drive system that can channel as much as 85 per cent of power to the rear wheels, it becomes clear that mild understeer is still the RS4's preferred stance. The RS4 is a mighty achievement, a sea-change for fast Audis that hints at how good the mid-engined R8 might be when it arrives later this year. But where the BMW and the Merc taught us new and exciting things the harder and further we drove them, the Audi lost just a bit of its lustre. Perhaps it's a victim of its mesmerising first impression. It's an impossible standard to live up to. By contrast the Mercedes feels remarkably average on a quick squirt, but beneath the off-putting 'box and initially odd steering feel is a chassis that is incredibly engaging. Even so, it can't scale the heights of the Audi or BMW. It's a softer, less focussed product. Still, its peachy balance shows that AMG could really deliver the goods if they wanted to. No surprises then. It comes down to RS4 and M3 CS. After ten minutes behind the wheel the RS4 was my winner. It's got the looks, the interior, the edge on performance. Forty-eight hours later, the deft balance, awesome adjustability and sheer exuberance of the M3 CS seemed insurmountable. It gives you so many options, and I don't just mean you can oversteer it all day long (which you can). It has incredible balance, and it's so responsive to your inputs that you feel intimately involved through every part of every corner. For you and me, that's what really counts. The M3 is still the all-conquering action hero. Did I mention there's a new one later this year? 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