Audi RS4 History

The Audi RS4 is a compact car that was manufactured between 2000 and 2001 and again from 2006 to 2008 by German automaker Audi. The RS4 is a sporty version of the A4, which has been manufactured continuously since 1994. When in production, the RS4 was the top-level model in the A4 series.

RS Designation

The RS designation stands for the German-language phrase "renn sport," which translates in English to "racing sport," or more accurately, "motor sport." The RS designation is Audi's highest performance designation.

Initial Model

The first Audi RS4 was introduced for the 2000 model year. Built on Volkswagen's B5 platform, it featured Audi's quattro all-wheel drive (as has been true for all RS4 models). It was intended to replace the outgoing Audi RS2 Avant.
The original RS4 was only available as a five-door wagon with a 2.7-liter biturbo V6 engine. Though based on the A4 and S4 models, the RS4 featured a more aerodynamic body and a six-speed manual transmission.
The 2000 and 2001 RS4 models were never sold in North America, but sales were strong in other Audi markets, including Europe and Latin America.

Second Generation

From 2001 to 2005, the Audi A4 series was built on Volkswagen's new B6 platform, though no RS version was produced. In 2006, the introduction of the B7 platform saw the return of the RS4.
This version of the RS4 was sold in North America beginning in 2008 after being first introduced during the 2006 North American International Auto Show. Unlike its predecessor, the new RS4 was available as a four-door sedan. Later, Audi would offer five-door-wagon and two-door-cabriolet versions.
This RS4 was powered by a 4.2-liter V8 engine coupled with a six-speed manual transmission.

Racing

Audi planned a line of RS4 racers to compete in the Sports Car Club of America's Speed World Challenge, but when the design phase was completed it decided not to enter the RS4 into competition. Audi's racing division, Audi Sport Italia, did build several RS4 racers for the Italian and European championships, where they went on to several wins. Additionally, modified RS4s are used in a number of independent racing leagues around the world.

Legacy

For 2008, Audi began using the new B8 platform for its A4 cars. Once again, the changeover meant the end of the RS4. Developments and features from the RS4 can still be seen in many of its major competitors still in production, including BMW's M3, the Lexus IS F, and the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG. Audi continues the RS tradition in its RS6 model, available since 2008, and the R8, introduced in 2006.

Resources

• Audi of America