What are the differences between the Audi RS7 and S7?

[Anthony]

The differences between the Audi S7 and RS7 are as follows: 1. Different transmissions: The Audi S7 is equipped with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission; the Audi RS7 is equipped with an 8-speed automatic manual transmission. 2. Different maximum power: The maximum power of the Audi S7 is 331 kilowatts; the maximum power of the Audi RS7 is 412 kilowatts. 3. Different maximum torque: The maximum torque of the Audi S7 is 550 Newton-meters; the maximum torque of the Audi RS7 is 700 Newton-meters. 4. Different 0-100 km/h acceleration times: The 0-100 km/h acceleration time of the Audi S7 is 4.6 seconds; the 0-100 km/h acceleration time of the Audi RS7 is 3.9 seconds.

[SanVictoria]

After driving both cars, I feel they are completely different in positioning. The RS7 is a pure wolf in sheep's clothing - its 4.0T V8 engine delivers 600 horsepower, driving like an absolute beast. It's brutally powerful yet shockingly stable, especially during cornering where its rear-wheel steering system would make regular S7 owners green with envy. Although the S7's 3.0T V6 with 340 horsepower is decent enough for highway overtaking, it's just a gentle fitness trainer compared to the RS7. If you're serious about performance, the RS7 can easily reach 700 horsepower with just a stage 1 tune, while the S7 could never achieve this level no matter how much you modify it.

[OArcher]

As someone who has driven an Audi for four years, let me share a few thoughts. The transmissions in these two cars are completely different—the RS7 uses an 8-speed sport transmission that shifts as fast as an electric shock, while the S7’s 7-speed dual-clutch is much gentler. The chassis difference is even more pronounced: the RS7 comes with active anti-roll bars, allowing it to take 60 mph right-angle turns without a squeak from the tires. The S7’s suspension offers much more comfort—it doesn’t jolt your backside over speed bumps but leans noticeably in corners. The seats also reveal their identities—the RS7’s carbon-fiber bucket seats lock you in place, while the S7’s sport seats only give you a symbolic hug.

[AdalynnAnn]

Last week I accompanied a friend to compare test drives at the 4S dealership. The difference was obvious the moment they were started: the RS7's exhaust pops sounded like firecrackers, while the S7's engine note was even more subdued than the A6's. During actual driving, pressing the RS7's accelerator just one-third of the way down felt like taking off, whereas the S7 required flooring it to achieve a similar effect. The fuel consumption was also dramatically different, with the RS7 easily starting at 18 liters per 100km in city driving, while the S7 could be kept around 13 liters. However, both cars are top-tier in terms of features, with laser headlights and night vision systems requiring additional payment as optional extras, and a minimum half-year wait for delivery.

[MadelineAnn]

Friends in the tuning circle all understand this difference. Though they look 70% similar, the RS7's widebody kit hides 20-inch forged wheels, with brake discs a full two sizes larger than the S7's. Pop the hood and it's even more shocking: the RS7's entire engine bay is packed to the brim, with turbo piping twice as thick as the S7's. The aerodynamic kit is no joke either—at 120 km/h, the RS7 generates 90% more downforce than the S7. But the S7 wins in post-purchase modding potential: just swapping the exhaust and adding coilovers makes it look sharp, while RS7 aftermarket parts will make your wallet cry.