The Audi RS4 Quattro is the top tier and highest performing version of some specific generations of the Audi A4 range of automobiles. It is a sports-focused compact executive car (often called sport compact in some countries), produced by Audi's high-performance private subsidiary Quattro GmbH, in limited numbers, for German car manufacturer Audi AG, part of the larger Volkswagen Group. It slots distinctly above the Audi S4, as the fastest, most sports-focused model based on the A4's "B" automobile platform.
The RS4 was introduced as Audi's answer to the M3, mostly its existed as a five-door estate in all four different models except the B7 which was also available as a four-door saloon and a two-door convertible. Unlike the M3, the RS4 has had a tricky past. The first two models, the B5 and B7 were very good cars, but the following B8 lost some of the magic, which later returned in the B9.
Appearances[]
- In Clarkson's Top 100 Cars, Jeremy compares the B5 RS4 to the original Audi Quattro. While he praises the B5 for being an astonishing piece of engineering, he states that isn't a legend like the original Quattro.
- In Series 7, Episode 2, Jeremy tests the B7 RS4 in the French alps, racing against two speed climbers. Despite losing, he describes the B7 RS4 as one of the all time great cars, due to it's astonishing engine, clever handling, and spectacular comfort, stating it to be way superior than an M3. The Stig sets a fast lap of 1:25.7 around the Top Gear Test Track.
- In Series 10, Episode 10, James tests the B7 RS4 at the Ascari Race Track in Spain, against Richard in the BMW M3 and Jeremy in the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG. Despite not technically winning any challenge, the Audi was seen to be the most civilised. Richard agrees it to be superb and Jeremy finds it to have the best engine of the three.
- In Series 11, Episode 2, the B7 RS4 was dethroned from the "Cool" section of the Cool Wall into the "Uncool" section due to the RS4 becoming a "cock car", and the BMW M3 E92 moving up to the "Cool" section.
- In A Scandi Flick, Clarkson chose a B7 RS4 as the ultimate Rally Car against Hammond in a Subaru Impreza WRX STi and May in a Mitsubishi Evo VIII. He modified his car into a rally scheme including the headlamp, as he and Hammond they manage to do their own rally track without James May.