Audi S4/RS4 2007
January 1, 2007
Audi’s A4 is a BMW 3-Series competitor, and as such has to be available in high-performance variations to compete with the might of Munich. Hence two go-faster versions; the S4, with a 340 hp V-8 that rips to 8,250 rpm with a sound that will prickle the hairs on your neck, and the RS4, with a direct-injection 420 hp V-8 that not only does that thing with your neck, it tries to pull your head off at the same time. Equipped with a manual 6-speed transmission only, the RS4 scorns the German speed compact which restricts cars to 155 mph by running away to 168 mph or better. The RS4 is equipped with Audi’s DRC suspension system that restricts roll by connecting the shocks diagonally to a central valved reservoir. As a result, it handles as if on rails. But as cool as it sounds, the RS4 is rare and expensive, so you might want to think about the S4. It’s fast too, and is also available with an automatic transmission.
PRICE: $49,920 (S4); $68,820 (RS4)
ENGINE: 4.2-liter V-8 (S4); 4.2-liter direct-injected V-8 (RS4)
TRANSMISSION: 6-speed manual (both); 6-speed Tiptronic (S4)
POWER: 340 hp at 7,800 rpm (S4); 420 hp at 7,500 rpm (RS4)
TORQUE: 302 ft lbs at 6,000 rpm (S4); 317 ft lbs at 6,000 rpm (RS4)
CURB WEIGHT: 3,957 pounds (S4); 3,980 pounds (RS4)
0-60 MPH: 5.3 seconds (S4); 4.8 seconds (RS4)
TOP SPEED: 155 mph (limited)
PROS: Fast, stable, and well-equipped.
CONS: Rear-seat space is limited.
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