ChrisB1985

I am trying to decide between an '07 or '08 RS4 and an '08 S5. On one hand, the RS4 is obviously a rocketship and has scarcity value. On the other hand, the S5 still has 350hp V-8 but with updated interior, B&O soundsystem, iPod integration in MMI as well as being more readily available so cheaper for similar mileage. Thoughts?

DrivingFool

You won't be able to think it through until you drive both...18 months ago, I faced the same choice - or similar. '08 RS4 blk Cab vx '10 S5 black Cab. I wanted a manual Cab, which made the choice easier as S5 couldn't be configured that way - but once I drove both, it was no longer a hard decision. RS4 has raw but nimble power and the S5 is a really nice car. Like so many have said here, I love my car and I smile all the time. I DRIVE my car. Good luck with your choice.

NoahWeb

I had an A5 before I got my RS4 and I think the best way to sum it up is like this -

The A5/S5 is a beautiful looking car. Amazing lines, wonderful interior, and brilliant Grand Touring car in every sense of the phrase.

The RS4, by contrast, is a machine. It's for those that delight in the mechanical precision and driving. Looks as good as the A5/S5, no, but sure isn't Quasimoto either!

I do not miss my A5 in lieu of the RS4. It's that much better.

Skrist

I have both an S5 V8 and an RS4. I love both. I think the real difference is in the handling. The RS4 is more eager and tossable with better steering. The S5 is very close in acceleration despite it's power deficit. You can find published 0 to 60 times at 4.7 seconds on the car. That is roughly the same as most published reports on the RS4, but I have seen one published report on the RS4 of 4.3 seconds and one at 4.4.

Skrist

One other thing, you can add an iPod to the RS4 that will read out through your cars system, just like it came from the factory, you can even use the steering wheel and direct radio controls. Look up Enfig Stereo, they ,have everything you will need, it's only about $200.

ChrisB1985

Thanks guys, this is helpful. I think you're right, it comes down to driving each and deciding. Will let you know how it pans out

sakimano

If it were between a 2011 S5 and a 2007 RS4, I'd be inclined to get the newer car. But if they're both 3-4 year old cars, I'd certainly get the RS4. The RS4 is better in a bunch of ways that to me are far more important than sound system etc. THe 8E interior was freshened up for the 2005.5+ part of the cycle, and it's holding up just fine. That leaves us with the car.

The RS4 is FAR more special, not only in scarcity, but just the whole look of the car means business.

Both are great, to be honest, so you can't really go wrong. With good exhaust/decat/JHM tune, your S5 will be equal with a stock RS4, so don't let the performance gap fool you. Of course with those same mods on an RS4, the gap presents itself again.

If you're still undecided:

• Take a coin, assign heads to one car and tails to the other.
  
• Flip the coin in the air and catch it and slap it on the back of your hand but don't look.
  
• Before you look, whatever car you're hoping is there...go buy that car.