VIDEO REVIEW: 2007 Audi S6

I agree, those variants should be compared to the RS6 for the best possible comparison. We tend to get lost and compare whatever to whatever with little concern to the actual match ups.

Unlike other people, (sunny) you are completely correct. The S versions usaually are cheaper than the AMG or the M versions, and have slightly less performance. The RS versions have more performance than the M or AMG cars, but cost a bit more. Audi uses two special model ranges to bracket the M and AMG cars from top and bottom.

To Cap’n

S is NOT Audi’s initial performance division. Audi S models re designed and manufactured by Audi’s regular model division as attainable sports cars.

Audi’s high performance division is called Quattro GmbH. They are responsible for designing and manufacturing all of Audi’s RS modes.

RS models compete head-to head with M and AMG models. Audi’s S models are slotted below the RS, M, and AMG hierarchy.

And since you mentioned that comparing the RS4 to the M3 CSL is fair (which I agree), then you’re in luck. Exactly just that happened just a few days ago on Fifth Gear!

It's a great watch. Both cars are based on pretty old platforms (RS4 is actually based on the 2002 Audi A4, and the M3 CS is really based on the 2000 3 series), but both cars had some awesome new technology jammed in.

Of course the Audi wins, both in straight-line acceleration (the RS4 was several car lengths ahead of the M3) and around the track. But the BMW did score higher points in power sliding (10/10 against Audi's 9/10), this despite the RS4’s ability to swing out at a much wider angle.

The verdict: Nothing can touch the winning Audi. The RS4 was simply described as “unbeatable”. However, the BMW's more difficult-to-control handling was deemed slightly more fun.

Both great cars.

of course, I'd get the RS4.