Even when running winter tires.
No one seems to be able to explain why, but Audi cars are typically underrated when they come out of the factory. In real-world tests, Audi models tend to outperform their quoted 0-60 mph times, meaning they are likely producing more power than the manufacturer claims. For example, let's look at the A4 - when MotorTrend tested the car, it bested Audi's 5.7-second 0-60 mph claim by 0.3 of a second. Likewise, the S8 was able to beat its 3.9-second 0-60 mph claim with a time of 3.5 seconds.
When we recently tested the RS3 hatchback in Europe, we couldn't help but feel it was faster than Audi's 4.1-second 0-62 mph (100 kph) claim. We didn't do any advanced performance testing on the car but a recent test by Automann-TV reveals how fast this compact performance car really is.
Before anyone objects to the insane speeds shown in the video, just remember this RS3 sedan is being piloted on Germany's Autobahn, where there are no speed limits. The test begins with a launch control start, where the Quattro AWD system can provide head-mashing acceleration. With 400 horsepower coming from a 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine, the RS3 was able to record a 0-62 mph time of 3.7 seconds according to the onboard VBOX equipment.
This is significantly faster than Audi's claimed timed 4.1 seconds. What makes this feat even more impressive is that the RS3 managed this time while running on winter tires, which aren't as grippy as summer performance rubber. Perhaps the RS3's five-cylinder mill is pumping out more than 400 hp?
After hitting 62 mph, the RS3 continued on to hit 124 mph (200 kph) in just 12.8 seconds before achieving a top speed of 165 mph (266 kph). In total, the run took just 26.3 seconds, which is incredibly impressive. We continue to be dazzled by Audi's real-world performance and wonder why the company continues to underrate its cars.
Acura
Alfa Romeo
Aston Martin
Audi
Automobili Pininfarina
Bentley
BMW
Bollinger
BrightDrop
Bugatti
Buick
Cadillac
Caterham
Chevrolet
Chrysler
Dodge
Ferrari
Fiat
Fisker
Ford
Genesis
GMC
Gordon Murray Automotive
Hennessey
Honda
Hyundai
Ineos Automotive
Infiniti
Jaguar
Jeep
Karma
Kia
Koenigsegg
Lamborghini
Land Rover
Lexus
Lincoln
Lordstown
Lotus
Lucid Motors
Maserati
Mazda
McLaren
Mercedes-Benz
Mini
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Pagani
Polestar
Porsche
Ram
Rimac
Rivian
Rolls-Royce
Spyker
Subaru
Tesla
Toyota
VinFast
Volkswagen
Volvo
Join The Discussion