New Audi RS5 vs BMW M3 – A Close Match-up

Just a few days ago the Audi pulled the wraps of its latest RS5. Audi has been rather quiet in this segment over recent times. As a result it has been overshadowed by the likes of the headline-grabbing Mercedes-AMG C63S and the BMW M3. But, with the most recent iteration, the Audi RS5, once again, takes aim at its rivals from Germany. It has been some time since the Audi has enjoyed an abundance of fire power over its competition, This makes an ideal time for an Audi RS5 vs BMW M3 match-up.

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Two Body Styles

Super saloons have been part and parcel of the landscape since the Alfa Romeo Giulia Ti Super created the sub-segment over 50 years ago. But fast estate cars are a far newer creation. For the first time we have both protagonists available in both sedan and stationwagon body styles. Audi has long been a proponent of the fast ‘wagon, which goes all the way back to the very first Audi to wear the RS badge, the famed Audi RS2 that was co-developed with Porsche. As a result of the fast Beemer now being offered in ‘Touring’ guise, these two models have never been more closely matched.

We generally steer away from discussions relating to the appearance of a vehicle as taste is so subjective. But these two do warrant a bit of input. BMW’s design team was slated for the oversized central intake of the M3 when it was launched. Since then the critics have all but disappeared. When BMW introduced the Touring, there was no mention of the other end of the car. M3s tend to have a nice degree of machismo always looking as though they are up for a fight.

Audi are past masters of adding ‘visual muscle’ when run-of-the-mill models are transformed into track athletes. The first RS4 is a good example of this, as is the more recent RS6. Looking at the images (above) we have to say the folks over in Ingolstadt have done it again. Just look at the rear three-quarter view of the RS5 sedan and those puffed front fenders of both cars. Based on appearance alone, this round may have to go to the Audi. What do you think?

Six Power

For a time, circa mid 2000s, all members of the Teutonic trio offered a compact saloon with a naturally aspirated V8. The RS4, arguably the start of Audi’s proper performance rivals, stacked up well against the likes of the E90/2 BMW M3. In addition there was the (W204) Mercedes-AMG C63 with its chest-thumping 6,2-litre V8 mill. However, times have changed and the days of bent eights are behind us.

Straight-line Performance

BMW says the BMW M3 Competition with xDrive can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3,5 seconds, and the new BMW M3 Competition Touring completes the same sprint in 3,6 seconds. Regardless of body shape, the top speed of all derivatives is pegged to 250 km/h. However, opt for the Driver’s Package and that figure is raised to 280 km/h. Audi says the turbocharged twins can blast from 0 to 100 km/h in 3,6 seconds with a top speed set at 285 km/h. We can’t wait to see them face-off in a drag race.

The M4 sedan costs R2 213 000 with the Touring version a tad more expensive at R2 233 500. There is no word of the Audi’s price as the model has just made its worldwide debut. However, it has been earmarked for introduction to the local market before the year ends. It remains to be seen if Audi SA will offer both body shapes to local buyers.

Which of these two German sports sedans would you choose, given that lovely choice? Let us know on our Facebook page.