Audi RS5: Mighty Twin-Turbo V8 Coupe Sets To Dethrone BMW M3
inspirion7 submitted on 4/5/2009 Official Bell & Ross Timestamp: 2:57:37 PM
26 user comments | Category: New Cars | Source: | SOURCE: www.autoexpress.co.uk
Meet the performance coupe that’s got BMW’s M3 worried.
These are the best shots yet of Audi’s upcoming RS5 flagship, which we’ve spied testing at high speed on the Nurburgring circuit in Germany.
Powered by a 450bhp 4.2-litre twin-turbo V8, it’s more powerful than the 414bhp 4.0-litre V8-engined M3 and boasts a Quattro four-wheel drive system too, available with a choice of both six-speed manual and seven-speed twin-clutch gearboxes.
Performance will be epic with 0-60mph in 4.5 seconds and a top speed electronically limited to 155mph. The RS5 will be a match for the M3 in the corners too with stiffened and lowered suspension, a wider track and stickier rubber.
In addition to four-wheel drive, it will also boast Audi’s new active rear differential – as used by the latest S4 – which helps distribute torque to different wheels, aiding agility and traction. Expect to the see the new RS5 at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, with UK sales starting before the end of the year. A price tag of £48,000 is mooted.
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