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May 17, 2006
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The new Audi RS 4 incorporates countless new features, many of them with their origins in the world of motor sport. Most notably, there is the V8 engine with an output of 420 bhp. This is the first time that a manufacturer has combined petrol direct injection with a high-revving concept. Engine speeds of up to 8,250 rpm are possible. Another highlight is the suspension with the latest generation of quattro permanent four-wheel drive with asymmetric/dynamic torque split and Dynamic Ride Control. Like the RS 4 saloon, the Cabriolet and Avant have also been subjected to a rigorous regime of weight reduction measures to make sure that they are equally sporty. Despite the systematic application of lightweight construction principles, all RS 4 versions feature luxurious equipment that singles out the Audi RS 4 as a high-performance vehicle suitable for everyday driving. The 420 bhp V8 engine with a displacement of 4,163 cm3 breaks through the magic barrier for production saloons of 100 bhp per litre of swept volume. The highly compact power unit reaches its peak torque of 430 Nm at 5,500 rpm. 90 percent of the total torque is available between 2,250 and 7,600 rpm. The result is excellent pulling power at all times, enabling the driver to drive in a relaxed style without frequent gear changes. The Audi RS 4 saloon employs groundbreaking FSI technology. The petrol direct-injection unit delivers enhanced power output based on more efficient combustion of the fuel/air mixture. The engine is also particularly responsive. Performance is correspondingly impressive: the saloon version reaches the 100 km/h mark in 4.8 seconds, and 200 km/h in 16.6 seconds. The top speed is governed electronically at 250 km/h. The efficiency of FSI technology has already been demonstrated impressively in Audi's four-time Le Mans winner, the Audi R8. Another key requirement for the developers was an optimum power-to-weight ratio. It was important that the Audi RS 4 should not weigh a gram more than it had to. The weight of practically every part was subjected to critical scrutiny. The front wings and the bonnet are made of aluminium, as are most of the chassis components. The specially designed RS bucket seats are not only very light, but also offer excellent body support. The result is a power-to-weight ratio of just 3.93 kilos per bhp - a figure truly reminiscent of a thoroughbred sports car which would not even have been conceivable for a midsize saloon just a few years ago. (May 14, 2006)
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