The Audi RS5 Coupe (8T) 4.2 FSI V8 quattro S tronic represents the high-performance variant of the Audi A5 Coupe, produced between 2010 and 2011. Positioned as the flagship model within the A5 range, the RS5 aimed to deliver a compelling blend of grand touring comfort and exhilarating performance. It was a key offering in Audi’s ‘RS’ (RennSport – racing sport) lineup, signifying the highest level of performance for that model series. The RS5 competed directly with other high-performance coupes such as the BMW M3 Coupe and the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | RS5 |
| Generation | RS5 Coupe (8T) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.2 FSI V8 (450 Hp) quattro S tronic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 14.9 l/100 km (15.8 US mpg, 19 UK mpg, 6.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg, 26.2 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 252 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.8 kg/Hp, 260.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 249.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 450 Hp @ 8250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 108.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 430 Nm @ 4000-6000 rpm (317.15 lb.-ft. @ 4000-6000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CFSA |
| Engine displacement | 4163 cm3 (254.04 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.7 l (10.25 US qt, 8.53 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1725 kg (3802.97 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2225 kg (4905.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 455 l (16.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 829 l (29.28 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal, 14.08 UK gal) |
| Length | 4649 mm (183.03 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2020 mm (79.53 in.) |
| Height | 1366 mm (53.78 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2751 mm (108.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1586 mm (62.44 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1582 mm (62.28 in.) |
| Front overhang | 873 mm (34.37 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1025 mm (40.35 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission S tronic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 9.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the RS5 is the 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine, designated internally as the CFSA code. This engine is a significant departure from the turbocharged engines becoming increasingly common at the time, offering a unique character and sound. It features direct fuel injection (FSI) and a high 10.5:1 compression ratio, contributing to its impressive power output. The valvetrain utilizes four valves per cylinder, with variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust sides for optimized performance across the rev range. The engine produces 450 horsepower at 8,250 rpm and 317 lb-ft of torque between 4,000 and 6,000 rpm.
Power is transmitted to all four wheels via Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system and a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. The S tronic transmission offers incredibly fast and smooth gear changes, enhancing both acceleration and driving enjoyment. The quattro system utilizes a crown-gear center differential, distributing torque between the front and rear axles as needed, providing excellent traction in various conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The RS5 4.2 FSI with the S tronic transmission delivers a thrilling driving experience. The naturally aspirated V8 provides a linear power delivery, building to a crescendo at higher RPMs. The S tronic transmission’s quick shifts contribute to a 0-60 mph time of around 4.4 seconds and a limited top speed of 155 mph. While not as fuel-efficient as some of its turbocharged competitors, the RS5 offers a unique and engaging driving experience that prioritizes driver involvement and a visceral connection to the engine. Compared to the standard A5 models, the RS5’s suspension is significantly stiffer and more focused on performance, resulting in a firmer ride. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing excellent feedback to the driver.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The RS5 came generously equipped as standard. Interior features included sport seats upholstered in Nappa leather with embossed RS5 logos, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, and carbon fiber trim. Standard exterior features included a unique RS5 front bumper, side skirts, rear diffuser, and exhaust system. Optional extras included a Bang & Olufsen sound system, adaptive cruise control, and various exterior carbon fiber enhancements. The interior color schemes were typically dark, emphasizing the car’s sporty character, with options for black, silver, and dark grey upholstery.
Chassis & Braking
The RS5 features a sport-tuned suspension with stiffer springs and dampers compared to the standard A5. The front suspension utilizes a five-link design, while the rear suspension employs a trapezoidal-link setup. Larger ventilated disc brakes are fitted at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The RS5 also included Audi’s ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) as standard safety features. The vehicle’s weight distribution is nearly perfect, contributing to its balanced handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The RS5 was generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its powerful engine, engaging driving dynamics, and luxurious interior. However, its relatively high fuel consumption and firm ride were noted as potential drawbacks. Compared to the A5 2.0 TFSI, the RS5 offered a significant performance upgrade but came at a substantial price premium. Against rivals like the BMW M3 Coupe, the RS5 offered a different character – prioritizing a naturally aspirated engine and all-wheel-drive traction over the M3’s rear-wheel-drive purity. The RS5’s S tronic transmission was also praised for its smoothness and speed, while some critics preferred the engagement of a traditional manual gearbox.
Legacy
The Audi RS5 Coupe (8T) 4.2 FSI V8 quattro S tronic remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market. The naturally aspirated V8 engine is highly regarded by enthusiasts for its sound and reliability. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of turbocharged engines, the RS5’s robust construction and well-engineered components contribute to its long-term durability. The 4.2L V8 is known to be a relatively reliable engine if properly maintained, with common issues including oil consumption and occasional carbon buildup. The RS5’s combination of performance, luxury, and all-weather capability continues to appeal to buyers seeking a high-performance coupe with a unique character.
