LCP

On the same tires, I bet the S4 outperforms (or at least equals) the M3 in those tests

BobP

As much as we are going to enjoy our S4's, let's not have any misconceptions. A 3600lb car with 59% of its weight over the front wheels is not going to corner as well as a 3200lb car with 50/50 weight distribution, on similar tires. And for the record, the M3 in the C/D test had Michelin Pilot Sport tires, not the ultra sticky MXX3s.

robfox

C/D got it wrong! S4 is 3322 lbs. for the base model!

LCP

Besides, if it only weighed 3322 and it has the power stated (or more per the more recent above posts) with the flat turbocharged torque curve, 0-60 would have been more like 5.3 and the quarter at 13.9-14.0 at 100+MPH. Two turbos plus pipes, bigger brakes and loaded luxury features weighs quite a bit.

Scott G

When you start to get in the league these cars are in horsepower wise quattro really starts to come into its own. An S4 can apply full throttle much earlier out of a turn and still keep the rear in check. This was true with 300 hp touring cars and will be true with 250 hp street cars. The Audi Super Touring cars had weight penalty after weight penalty stacked on as the season went on and the still managed to win with quattro. The Audi Touring cars had to carry a whole lot of extra sausage by the time the season came to a close. With equal tires the S4 will have an advantage on the M3 wet or dry. Why do you think the banned quattro?

robfox

if the euro base model weighs 3322 lbs, what is the other 300 lbs for?