Monday, 10 September 2007
Audi builds the ultimate factory sleeper; U.S. customers left wanting
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Audi’s press release on the upcoming twin-turbocharged ten-cylinder RS6 Avant begins with those ever so familiar words: “The RS 6 model is not scheduled for sale in the U.S.” Bummer. Nevertheless, the car is worth a look – where else can you find 580 horsepower disguised in a benign grocery-getting station wagon body style?
The heart of the machine is a 5.2-liter V10 gasoline engine with direct fuel injection and twin turbochargers boosting output to 580 horsepower between 6,250 and 6,700 rpm and 479 foot-pounds of torque from a mere 1,500 rpm up to 6,250 revolutions. With the RS6 weighing in at 4,464 pounds, each horsepower moves 7.7 pounds of mass. Audi claims 0-60 mph sprints of 4.6 seconds and a top governed speed of 155 mph.
Shifting occurs via a six-speed Tiptronic gearbox, and Quattro all-wheel-drive attempts to transmit power from the axles to the pavement effectively. Dynamic Ride Control helps dictate body motions, while available ceramic brakes scrub off speed without overheating. Standard 19-inch wheels are wrapped in 255/40-series tires, while optional 20s sit inside 275/35-series rubber.
Subtle exterior details give away the RS6’s enormous performance potential. A rear fascia diffuser is flanked by two formidable looking oval exhaust outlets. Front and rear “widebody” fender flares look absolutely stunning on the Audi’s otherwise flat slab sides. Audi’s large corporate grille is also well sized in this application; the automaker could have gone much bigger based on the engine’s firepower.
Source: Audi media
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