Audi S vs RS models

Audi has long been a household name when it comes to car manufacturers, and is associated with sophistication, innovation, and performance.

Their model line-up includes everything from hatchbacks to saloons, SUVs to convertibles. Their range includes a number of trim levels, but today we’re going to be comparing the differences between the Audi S models and Audi RS models.

What is Audi S?

Audi models that come with the S prefix boast more powerful engines and performance levels than their A and Q counterparts. The S – which stands for ‘sport’ – models typically feature performance tyres, an adaptive suspension, improved handling, and all-wheel drive as standard.

The comfort is drastically improved too, with carbon-fibre trim and quilted-leather seats. Overall, the handling of an S model is much sportier than its A counterpart.

S models are different to S Line. The S Line is an appearance packages that adds design elements to an A or Q model to make it look like a S model, without the improved performance.

What is Audi RS?

We know the S specification introduces better handling, more power, and sportier styling; the RS models are all of this amplified.

The RS – which stands for ‘RennSport’ (German for ‘Racing Sport’) – can be found on the A3, A5, A6, A7, e-tron GT, and Q8 lines. RS models are similar to the S models in their sportier styling and enhanced driving experience, but they’re a notch above in terms of their performance and price.

For context, an Audi RS 3 has a 401hp, turbo-charged five-cylinder engine, compared to the Audi S3’s 306hp four-cylinder.

What model is right for me?

Both the Audi S and Audi RS models take power, performance, and luxury up a step, but the RS takes performance to a new level. For those of you with the spirit of a racing driver, the RS model range is worth looking into.

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