2003 Audi RS 6

The RS 6 is lowered 25 mm and the suspension is further augmented with Audi's Dynamic Ride Control System, a mechanical-hydraulic ride and handling compensating system that connects shock absorbers on opposite corners.

Besides its prodigious output, that engine boasts an aluminum block, five valves per cylinder, two of which are sodium-cooled, to better control valve temperature, variable intake and exhaust camshaft adjustment and direct ignition. There are twin turbos and intercoolers, one set for each bank. The exhaust system is oversized and the entire, beautifully finished engine package, with its carbon-fiber composite air cleaner and front engine cover, would make a hot rodder resentful.


quattro GmbH's attention to detail extends to a specifically tuned five-speed Tiptronic automatic with two manual shift modes. You can operate the shifter in a fore-and-aft plane, or use the F1-inspired paddles on the steering wheel. In the "Sport" setting, engine revs are held appropriately higher on up- and downshifts. "Reading" the car's lateral acceleration, the transmission can automatically adjust its shift points to ensure the car is in the optimal gear for cornering. The Dynamic Shift Program (DSP) even has a hill detection capability that prevents gear hunting on inclines. Dynamic Roll Control (DRC) continually adjusts the valve pressure in each shock absorber to control body roll during hard cornering.


On the road, and on a special section of Phoenix Firebird Raceway, we had a chance to wring out the RS 6, and were not surprised to find its cornering limits and acceleration to be outstanding. There's a bit of understeer, particularly in tighter corners, and you're subtly conscious of the all-wheel-drive, but this car's prodigious grip is inspiring, especially in high speed sweepers. We were hoping for a rainstorm so we could assess the RS 6's wet-pavement capability but, suffice it to say, if you're storming around then this is the car you'll want. The RS 6's precise steering, instantaneous throttle response, wicked acceleration, and rumbly exhaust will make you wonder why you'd need, say, a 911 Targa, a Maserati Coupe or a Viper. In the RS 6, you can do virtually anything those cars can, in greater comfort, packing three passengers plus their suitcases and skis in the trunk! The RS 6 is a worthy competitor to the M5, S-Type R and E55, and its Quattro all-wheel-drive system is a plus.


For $85,000, you'd expect a high level of standard equipment, and the RS 6 doesn't disappoint. Included are a six-disc, in-dash Symphony II Radio, a Bose 200-watt premium sound system, Audi's OnStar telematics, a power sunroof and 12-way power sport front seats, plus every safety device imaginable, Xenon lighting, Parktronic (Acoustic Parking System), etc., to name just a few niceties. You'll pay extra for power sunshades, the aforementioned carbon-fiber interior trim, rear seat side airbags, a warm weather package, the Nav system and a sound-enhancing exhaust (sign us up for that one). There's a four-year/50,000-mile warranty with free 24-hour roadside service, and no charge for scheduled maintenance. The RS 6 goes on sale in July. We predict those 1,000 examples will go fast. (www.audiusa.com)