Rivalry between siblings at its best
The Audi RS6 Avant is almost identical to the RS7 Sportback, except for the differences in the body styles. Both the super wagon and the liftback are about the same weight and share the twin-turbo, 4.0-liter V8 that produces 600 horsepower and 800 Newton meters (590 pound-feet). The eight-speed automatic transmission with launch controller and Quattro AWD also work. Okay, so why not line up two Audi Sport models to compete in a drag racing?
Surprise! The drag race, organized by Carwowon wet runways, had an interesting twist. The driver’s faster reaction allowed the RS6 Avant to pull ahead, but the RS7 was able to make up ground and won the race. The super wagon was slightly faster than the RS6 Avant, crossing the line in 12.6 seconds.
Despite a poor start, the RS7 performed just as well as its long-roof sibling, regardless of whether it was the Sportback’s more aerodynamic body or the tires. The high-powered liftback was also impressive in the first rolling race at 50 mph (80 km/h), as the transmission responded significantly faster, allowing it to comfortably win the race.
The rolling race was again held, but this time both cars had manual shifting and sport settings. The reverse was true as the RS7 failed to make one of the gear changes. This allowed the RS6 win the duel. The final rolling race was a neck-and-neck contest between the drivers and cars.
The RS comparison concluded with a brake test at 70 mph (113 km/h), in which both Audi Sport models were again virtually inseparable. They have almost identical brakes, and the RS7 is heavier at 10 kg (22 pounds). This negligible difference can easily be compensated by the driver’s body weight.
We’d choose the Avant’s more practical design over the Sportback’s. We also found the wagon to be $5,000 less than the liftback in the United States. This makes it easier to choose our favorite.