What is the difference between the RS4 and S4?

[PhoebeMarie]

The differences between the RS4 and S4 are as follows: 1. The Audi RS4 is a station wagon, while the S4 is a sedan. 2. The RS4 is equipped with a 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, whereas the S4 uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged engine. The RS4's 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged engine delivers 450 horsepower and a maximum torque of 600 Nm, with a maximum power output at 5700 to 6700 rpm and peak torque available from 1900 to 5000 rpm. The S4's 3.0-liter turbocharged engine produces a maximum power of 260 kW and a maximum torque of 500 Nm. 3. The Audi RS4 offers a trunk capacity of 1430 liters, while the Audi S4 has a trunk capacity of 480 liters.

[LaBrantley]

From a performance standpoint, I have to say the difference between the RS4 and S4 is quite significant. As Audi's high-performance variant, the RS4 typically delivers over 450 horsepower, accelerates much faster with a 0-60 mph time just over 4 seconds, and offers that intense push-you-back-in-your-seat feeling. The S4, while no slouch with 350-400 horsepower and decent acceleration, still falls short compared to the RS4. Additionally, the RS4's suspension is tuned to be stiffer, providing rock-solid stability during high-speed cornering, though it might feel a bit bumpier for daily driving. The S4 offers better comfort with a more balanced chassis, making it more pleasant for city commutes. Price-wise, the RS4 is considerably more expensive, starting several tens of thousands of dollars higher with steeper maintenance costs. If you're after extreme driving thrills, the RS4 is undoubtedly exhilarating; the S4 is more subdued, better suited for everyday commuting.

[JuneMarie]

Let's talk about daily driving. I've tried the S4, and it's perfect for commuting and family trips. It has strong power but isn't too noisy, and the fuel consumption on the highway can stay around 25 mpg. The RS4 is another story—more horsepower, a louder engine, and long drives might tire your ears. The seats are sportier but lack cushioning, and while the rear space is similar, the increased weight puts more strain on the suspension. From a practicality standpoint, the S4 has lower maintenance costs, with slower tire and brake wear. The RS4 requires more frequent servicing and higher insurance premiums. Unless you often crave mountain road thrills, the S4 is more balanced and hassle-free, especially for non-enthusiast family owners.

[VincentLynn]

Technically speaking, the S4 features a V6 twin-turbo engine producing around 400 horsepower paired with an all-wheel-drive system for solid foundational stability. The RS4 upgrades to a high-performance engine, such as a V8 version with over 450 horsepower, along with more aggressive ECU tuning for sharper acceleration response, increased suspension stiffness, and upgraded braking components with larger disc rotors. Both share similar electronic assistance systems, but the RS4 adds a sport differential for enhanced cornering grip. Styling also differs—the RS4 boasts widebody design and carbon fiber accents—though both share the same chassis platform, making aftermarket modifications easily interchangeable.