Audi’s Latest RS4 Comes with Extensive Carbon Fibre Trimming

The all-new V8-powered evolution of the RS 4 quattro is expected to dominate the Audi stand at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show.

Sitting 30mm lower than a standard A4, and with a wider front and rear track, the new RS 4 quattro is equipped to deliver improved handling without the ‘heart-in-mouth’ moments to which some high-powered super cars can be prone.

In addition, special care has been taken to avoid dulling the performance through excess weight. An impressive power-to-weight ratio of 254PS per ton has been achieved through the extensive use of aluminium for normally heavy items such as the suspension, bonnet and front wings, combined with other detail changes including the use of ultra-light RS bucket seats with electrically inflatable side supports.

Its tapered sports steering wheel, RS bucket seats and engine starter button combine with extensive carbon fibre trim to add more a touch of racing car purpose without diluting the comfort, quality and attention to detail for which Audi interior design is renowned.

At the heart of the RS 4 quattro is a naturally aspirated 4.2-litre V8 FSI petrol engine that delivers 420PS, equating to a highly impressive specific output of just over 100PS per litre. The 0-62mph sprint is dispatched in just 4.8 seconds, 124mph from rest on a suitable Autobahn can be seen in only 16.6 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 155mph is easily achievable.

Pricing and full specification for right-hand-drive versions of the new RS 4 quattro, which will be available in both saloon and Avant estate body styles (Avant from 2006), will be announced closer to its UK launch in spring 2005, ahead of first customer deliveries in autumn 2005.

Publication Date: 28/02/2005

WWW Link: http://www.audi.com

WWW Link: http://www.salon-auto.ch/en

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