What are the differences between the Audi RS4 and S4?
4 Answers
The main differences between the Audi S4 and RS4 lie in their positioning, body types, dimensions, and powertrains, as detailed below: Positioning Differences: The Audi S4 is a performance model; the Audi RS4 is a high-performance model. Body Types and Dimensions: The Audi S4 is a sedan with dimensions of 4770*1847*1404mm, a wheelbase of 2825mm, and a trunk capacity of 480L. The Audi RS4 is a station wagon with dimensions of 4782*1866*1437mm, a wheelbase of 2826mm, and a trunk capacity of 505L. Therefore, the Audi RS4 appears larger and more spacious, offering better practicality than the Audi S4. Powertrain Differences: The Audi S4 is equipped with a 3.0T V6 turbocharged engine producing 354 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque, with an official 0-100km/h acceleration time of 4.7 seconds. The Audi RS4, on the other hand, features a 2.9T V6 twin-turbocharged engine delivering 450 horsepower and 600 Nm of torque, with an official 0-100km/h acceleration time of 4.1 seconds.
I've been driving for over a decade and often discuss performance cars with friends. The Audi S4 and RS4 may look like siblings, but there's actually a significant gap between them. The most obvious difference is the engine: the S4 uses a 3.0T V6 single-turbo with about 354 horsepower, which is already plenty powerful for daily driving; the RS4 packs a 2.9T V6 biturbo that pushes over 450 horsepower, delivering much stronger acceleration when you floor it. Then there's the exhaust note – the RS4 comes with factory-installed crackling overrun sounds, while the S4 is considerably quieter. Exterior-wise, the RS4 is more aggressive with flared fenders and larger wheels, making a bold statement on the street. The price difference is substantial too, with the RS4 typically costing about 50% more than the S4. Currently, the RS4 is only available as an Avant (wagon), whereas the S4 still offers a sedan option. In my opinion, if you're on a budget, the S4 delivers plenty of thrills, but if you're chasing the ultimate, go for the RS4.
We have an S4 Avant at home, perfect for picking up the kids while satisfying the need for performance. Compared it with the RS4 and found the core difference lies in their positioning: the S4 is more like an 'all-rounder,' with a 3.0T engine paired with an 8AT, delivering quick acceleration in the city while being fuel-efficient, and the rear seat space is similar to a regular A4. The RS4, on the other hand, is purely a 'performance machine'—its chassis is as stiff as a go-kart, and going over speed bumps can jolt your lunch out. Additionally, the RS4 features full-time quattro with torque vectoring, allowing each wheel to exert force independently during cornering, resulting in noticeably sharper handling. The most practical difference is fuel consumption: the S4 averages 12L/100km in the city, while the RS4 is at least 15L/100km. For family use, the S4 is more suitable, while the RS4 is better saved for track days.
Last time I test drove these two back-to-back. The difference was apparent the moment they started: the S4's engine sound was understated and deep, while the RS4 growled like a beast. Performance-wise, the RS4 does 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds, nearly a full second quicker than the S4! The key lies in the drivetrain – the RS4 uses a more aggressive differential and cooling system. Interior differences too: the RS4 comes standard with carbon fiber trim and bucket seats, while these are optional on the S4. There's about a 300,000 yuan price gap, but maintenance costs matter – an oil change costs over 2,000 for the RS4 versus 1,500 for the S4.
