Carwow has brought together three generations of RS4 (B5, B7, and B8), a first-generation R8, and an R8 GT to see which one comes out on top. They’re running a knockout drag race tournament to find the ultimate Audi.
Will the S5 make it to the final round? Here’s what’s in the lineup.
First up is the B5 RS4 against the B7 RS4. The B5 has a 2.7-litre twin-turbo V6 with 380hp and 440 N · m, while the B7 uses a 4.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 making 420hp and 430 N · m. Both have all-wheel drive and six-speed manuals, but the B7 is 100kg heavier at 1,700kg. Right now, the B5 costs about £50,000, and the B7 is around £25,000.
The winner will face the B8 RS4. It has the same 4.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 as the B7, but it’s tuned to 450hp and 430 N · m. It still has all-wheel drive, now with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. The weight is up to 1,800kg, and by 2026, it’s expected to be worth about £18,000.
Next is the all-new B10 S5 Avant. It has a 3-litre turbocharged V6 with 367hp and 550Nm. Like the B8, it comes with all-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, but it’s heavier at 2,000kg. With options, the price is about £75,000.
Then we reach the R8S. The Mk1 R8 features that glorious 4.2-litre naturally-aspirated V8, good for 420hp and 430Nm. Four-wheel drive, six-speed manual, and a mere 1,560kg. Current market value: approximately £33,000.
Finally: the Mk1 R8 GT Spider. A 5.2-litre naturally-aspirated V10 unleashes 560hp and 540 N · m. All-wheel drive returns, matched to a six-speed automatic gearbox. It weighs 1,640kg and trades for around £75,000 today.
Will the new S5 make it all the way? Let’s see what happens.
