Audi RS6

Infobox Automobile


name = Audi RS6 quattro
manufacturer = quattro GmbH
(a private subsidiary of Audi AG)
parent_company = Volkswagen Group (Volkswagen AG)
production = C5: 2002 - 2004
C6: 2008 - present
assembly = Neckarsulm, Germany
predecessor =
successor =
class = Mid-size executive car,
Sports car,
Halo vehicle
layout = Front engine,
quattro permanent four-wheel drive
platform = Volkswagen Group C platform series
related = Audi A6
Audi S6The Audi RS6 quattro, commonly referred to as the RS6, is the highest performing version, and top-of-the-line specification of the Audi A6 (positioned above the Audi S6). It is a mid-size sports-focussed executive car, produced by the high performance private subidiary company quattro GmbH, for Audi AG, part of the Volkswagen Group.

Production of the original C5 RS6 began in June 2002 and ended in October 2004. The second and current C6 RS6 was introduced at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show. Its main rivals could include the Mercedes-Benz E-Class AMG and the BMW M5.

The C5 RS6 was the fourth model to come out of Audi's private subsidiary company, "quattro GmbH". The first was the RS2 Avant, from a joint venture between Porsche and quattro GmbH. The second was the C4 S6 Plus, produced from April 1996 to July 1997. Third was the 2000 B5 Audi RS4; the fifth was the 2005 B7 A4 DTM edition saloon, and the sixth was the 2006 B7 RS4. The seventh and current (as of 2008) quattro GmbH model is the latest C6 RS6.

The original RS6 was the first Audi RS model to reach North America.

The "RS" initials stand for "RennSport" de icon, and is Audi's ultimate high performance trim level, positioned above the "S" model specification level of Audi's regular model range line-up. Like all Audi RS models, the RS6 pioneers some of Audi's newest and advanced engineering and technology, and so could be described as a halo vehicle. Furthermore, it is only available with Audi's Torsen-based quattro permanent four-wheel drive system.

Its main market competitors include BMW M5, Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG.

C5 RS6 (Typ 4B): (2002-2004)

Infobox Automobile


name = Audi C5 RS6 quattro "Typ" 4B
production = 2002 - 2004
predecessor =
successor =
platform = Volkswagen Group C5 platform
body_style = 5-door Avant (estate/wagon),
4-door saloon/sedan
engine = 4.2L V8 40v 2xDOHC twin-turbo
transmission = 5-speed tiptronic automatic
wheelbase = convert|2759|mm|1|abbr=on
length = convert|4852|mm|1|abbr=on
width = convert|1850|mm|1|abbr=on
height = saloon: convert|1387|mm|1|abbr=on-convert|1426|mm|1|abbr=on,
Avant: convert|1390|mm|1|abbr=on-convert|1430|mm|1|abbr=on
weight = saloon: convert|1840|kg|0|abbr=on,
Avant: convert|1865|kg|0|abbr=on
fuel_capacity = convert|82|L|impgal usgal|1|abbr=on
related =
designer =The original RS6, "Typ" 4B, was the top-of-the-line user of the Volkswagen Group C5 platform (1997-2004), and was initially available as a 5-door Avant (Audis name for an estate/wagon). A 4-door saloon/sedan followed shortly after the launch of the Avant. Derived from the C5 Audi S6 (itself derived from the Audi A6), the RS6 also shares aluminium structure from the firewall and forward with the C5 A6s with V8 engines (A6 4.2 V8 quattro, S6 saloon/Avant).

Performance figures for the Avant, whilst consuming the recommended high octane 98RON "Super Plus unleaded" petrol indicate the 0-convert|100|km/h|0|abbr=on|lk=on dash would be completed in 4.9 seconds, reaching convert|200|km/h|0|abbr=on in 17.8 seconds (17.6 s for the saloon). Official figures state an electronically limited top speed of convert|250|km/h|1|abbr=on, although most "RS" owners report that the speed limiter is rather liberal on all RS cars, with genuine top speeds of convert|270|km/h|0|abbr=on being possible to achieve. It should be noted that using a lower octane rated petrol, such as the standard 95RON "Premium unleaded" will reduce the engine power output, and have logical reduction in performance.

Luggage capacity, measured according to the VDA block method in the Avant ranges from 455 litres (L), to 1590 L with the rear seats folded down. For the saloon, the boot holds 424 L.

C5 Powertrain

The RS6 featured a convert|4172|cc|1|abbr=on|lk=on twin-turbocharged ("biturbo"), twin double overhead camshaft, 5 valve per cylinder version of Audi's 4.2 Litre 90° V8 petrol engine (code BCY), tuned with the assistance of Cosworth Technology (now known as Mahle Powertrain). With the aid of the two turbochargers (one per cylinder bank), output of the V8 engine was increased to convert|331|kW|PS bhp|0|abbr=on|lk=on at 5,700 to 6,400 rpm, and convert|560|Nm|0|abbr=on|lk=on of torque. The combination of the 4.2 litre V8, variable inlet valve timing and twin turbochargers gave the RS6 an exceptionally wide power band, with peak torque available from 1950 to 5600 rpm.

Further detail of the engine includes fully sequential electronic fuel injection, mapped direct ignition with solid-state high voltage distribution using eight individual single-spark ignition coils. Engine management uses a Bosch Motronic ME engine control unit, which controls all functions of the engine operation; including fuel delivery, ignition system, valve timing, emissions control systems, and torque reduction control - the latter operating in conjunction with the Bosch ESP 5.7 Electronic Stability Programme, as part of the "Anti Slip Regulation" (ASR) traction control system. The engine is compliant with the European Union Euro3 standard, and includes two close-coupled primary catalytic converters (CATs), two underfloor main CATs, and two heated oxygen sensors which manage the cylinder bank selective lambda control. This results in a CO₂ emissions rating of 350 g/100km for the Avant and saloon in standard configuration.

It has an electronically-controlled five-speed HP-24 tiptronic automatic transmission (gear ratios - 1st: 3.571, 2nd: 2.200, 3rd: 1.505, 4th: 1.000, 5th: 0.804), with lock-up torque converter. It has "hill detection" capability, and is programmed to "blip" the throttle for downshift gear changes. The transmission control unit ECU incorporates fuzzy logic with its "Dynamic Shift Programme" (DSP), with the shift pattern adapting to suit individual driving styles.

The RS6 was only available with Audi's Torsen-based quattro permanent four-wheel drive, utilising the Torsen T-2 dynamic centre differential (diff), a modified unit which was being used in the 6.0 litre W12-powered D2 Audi A8. The torque from the engine is first routed from the gearbox output shaft to the Torsen centre diff, and then divided between the front and rear axles.

The front and rear axle differentials (ratio: 3.197) are a conventional "open" type, but utilise an "Electronic Differential Lock" (EDL). EDL is an integrated additional function of the Bosch Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) system, and works by monitoring and comparing the indvidual roadwheel speeds across an axle, and braking an individual wheel which is sensed to have lost traction (spinning), thus transferring torque across the axle to the wheel/tyre which does have grip.

C5 Suspension and steering

Utilising the same fully independent four-link front suspension, and double wishbone rear, as its related A6 and S6, the RS6 was lowered by convert|20|mm|2|abbr=on, with a 30% stiffer spring rate and 40% increased compression damping. The RS6 also served as the debut model for Audi's "Dynamic Ride Control" (DRC) system. The DRC system is mainly mechanical, and uses a pump to provide additional pressure to individual shock absorbers during cornering, acceleration or braking; to counteract rolling and pitching. The system can adjust the stiffness at each individual shock absorber constantly; to maintain both a comfortable ride on straight roads, and high level of poise and grip when cornering hard, accelerating, or braking. The DRC's main advantage is that it operates without the need for complicated electronics, as required in similar systems from Mercedes-Benz and other competitors.

"Servotronic" speed-sensitive rack and pinion power steering was also standard, with a ratio of 16.2, and a turning circle of convert|11.4|m|abbr=on.

C5 Brakes, wheels & tyres

The front brakes feature Brembo eight-piston fixed monobloc brake calipers, with four pads in each caliper, working with cross-drilled, floating and radially vented brake discs, sized at convert|365|mm|2|abbr=on in diameter, by convert|33|mm|2|abbr=on thick. The rear features single-piston floating ATE calipers with integrated cable-operated parking brake mechanism, mated to cross-drilled, floating and radially vented disc, sized convert|335|mm|2|abbr=on by convert|23|mm|2|abbr=on.

Both front and rear floating discs are held in by metal pins to the lightweight disc hub, and allow convert|1.0|mm|3|abbr=on of lateral thermal expansion from the hub centre.

Bosch ESP 5.7 Electronic Stability Programme, with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) was standard fitment.

There were total of three OEM wheel and tyre types produced for the RS6. In Europe and elsewhere, 19" wheels were standard, with an optional 18" package. In the U.S. market, the 18" package was the only available offering. An 18" winter package was universally available.

For 18" wheels, the standard tyre fitted was 255/40 ZR18 99Y with ExtraLoad (XL) rating. This is often stressed, and is the only recommendation by Audi, as RS6 does weigh convert|1865|kg|1|abbr=on. Tyres which are not rated XL are not safe (nor legal, in most countries) for use. Owners reported finding Continental ContiSportContact 2, Dunlop SP Sport 9000, Michelin Pilot Sport PS2, and Pirelli P-Zero Rosso as OEM suppliers for tyres on the RS6.

For 19" wheels, the standard tyre fitted was 255/35 ZR19 96Y XL. However, there were debates as to how safe 19" wheels and tyres are,Fact|date=April 2008 as the XL rating achieves a 96 Load Index (convert|710|kg|0|abbr=on load rating). In contrast, the 255/40 ZR18 XL will get you 99 Load Index, good for convert|775|kg|0|abbr=on per tyre. Also, 19" wheel and tyre package may rub against the suspension strut if not properly fitted.Fact|date=July 2008 At least from one U.S. ownerFact|date=April 2008 reports Michelin Pilot Sport PS2, part number 14875, will fit, as the tyre, being an asymmetric tread pattern, does not come with rim protector "lip" on the inner side of the tyre.

C5 RS6 Plus

Between April and October 2004, there was a final limited run of an even higher-performance RS6, named the RS6 Plus. This had an increased engine output, and produced over convert|480|PS|kW bhp|0|abbr=on|lk=on at 6000-6400 rpm, with the same convert|560|Nm|0|abbr=on|lk=on of torque at 1950-6000 rpm (engine code BRV). This additional performance was achieved with a new engine control unit (ECU), and two additional coolant radiators behind the side-mounted intercoolers (these were standard fitment on the standard RS6 in hotter climate countries). Official performance figures indicate the standard discipline of sprinting from standstill to convert|100|km/h|0|abbr=on|lk=on in 4.6 seconds. The RS6 Plus carries on to reach convert|200|km/h|0|abbr=on in 17.3 seconds, and has an official top speed of convert|280|km/h|1|abbr=on.

The RS6 Plus came with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) as standard, and also included a no-cost option of "Sports Suspension Plus", which lowered the standard sports suspension by an additional convert|10|mm|2|abbr=on. A revised steering rack, with a reduced ratio of 14.3 for firmer steering feel was included, and resulted in a turning circle of convert|11.7|m|1|abbr=on. The wheels were only available in the 9Jx19" '5-arm design' alloys, finished in "anthracite" (dark grey), with 255/35 ZR19 96Y XL tyres.

The car was available only as an Avant, and was sold only in European markets. Visual differences for the RS6 Plus included the "black optic pack", which consisted of black finish to the framing of the radiator grille, exterior window trims, tailgate lower trim, roof rails, and exhaust tailpipes. It quickly sold out once it was released (999 units total). The last three digits of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) are reproduced on a plaque inside the car, displayed on the centre console.

C5 RS6 in auto racing

The RS6 was used in the SPEED World Challenge GT Series for two years, claiming victory in both years. [Audi.com PDFlink| [http://www.audi.com/etc/medialib/cms4imp/audi2/company/financial_information/pdf.Par.0095.File.pdf 2004 - Touching] |1.98 MB] However, the 2005 season proved difficult due to performance restrictions imposed on Champion Audi by the SCCA, with Champion deciding to run a different wheel diameter and the trade off was reducing boost pressure. The RS6 was challenged by a factory-backed Cadillac CTS-V, but was still victorious. The RS6's team, Champion Audi Racing decided to pull the RS6 from the series. Champion claimed unfair rules and regulations targeted the dominant Audis, although it was by Champion's own volition that the rules were imposed on them in the first place.

C6 RS6 (Typ 4F): (2008-present)

Infobox Automobile


name = Audi C6 RS6 5.0 TFSI quattro "Typ" 4F
production = From April 2008
(999 to be producedfr cite news|url=http://www.turbo.fr/automobile/actualit%C3%A9s/essais-auto/audi/a3-cabriolet-rs6-avec-karine-ferri/article.jsp?id=p2_867954 |title=Audi A3 Cabriolet & RS6 avec Karine Ferri |accessdate=2008-02-03] )
assembly =
predecessor = Audi RS6 (C5)
successor =
platform = Volkswagen Group C6 platform
body_style = 5-door Avant (estate/wagon)
4-door saloon/sedan
engine = 5.0L V10 FSI twin-turbo 2xDOHC
transmission = 6-speed tiptronic automatic
wheelbase = auto mm|2846
length = auto mm|4928 (Avant)
width = auto mm|1889
height = auto mm|1460 (Avant)
weight = auto kg|2025
fuel_capacity = convert|80|L|impgal usgal|1|abbr=on
related =
designer =

A second generation RS6 5.0 TFSI quattro, "Typ" 4F, based on the Volkswagen Group C6 automobile platform was launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2007. Available in Europe from April 2008, and as of July 2008, it is Audi's single most powerful car ever to be produced by the marque, [Audi UK - The New Audi RS6 - Pricing and Specification Guide, Edition 1. 02/08] [Audi UK - Audi RS6 - Pricing and Specification Guide, Edition 2. 05/08] and positions the car ahead of its main competitors, the BMW M5 and the Mercedes E63 AMG in terms of engine output.

The RS6 Avant will not be available in the U.S. market. However, a saloon (sedan) was unveiled in August 2008 [ [http://paultan.org/archives/2008/08/12/audi-rs6-sedan-unveiled-details-and-photos/ Audi RS6 Sedan unveiled: details and photos] ] , and is likely to be offered in North American markets.

Official performance figures for the Avant: 4.6-second 0-convert|100|km/h|mi/h|0|abbr=on|lk=on, 14.9 seconds 0-convert|200|km/h|mi/h|0|abbr=on, and top speed is electronically governed to convert|250|km/h|mi/h|1|abbr=on, with a factory option to derestrict the top speed to convert|274|km/h|mi/h|1|abbr=on. In standard form, CO₂ emissions are rated at 333 g/km.

C6 Powertrain

The engine is an all-aluminium alloy 4991 cc 90° V10 twin-turbocharged Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI), with a dry-sump lubrication system, and a unique firing order. It has four valves per cylinder, with twin chain-driven double overhead camshafts, and variable valve timing for both inlet and exhaust camshafts. Charged intake air is cooled with two side-mounted intercoolers (SMIC)s. The engine produces convert|580|PS|kW bhp|0|lk=on|abbr=on at 6,250 to 6,700 rpm, and convert|650|Nm|0|lk=on|abbr=on of torque from 1,500 to 6,250 rpm. Engine management is by way of Bosch Motronic ME 9.1.2 engine control unit, incorporating two integrated control units which act as "master" and "slave" concepts. It also uses mapped direct ignition with ten individual spark coils, an electronic drive by wire throttle ("Bosch E-Gas"), cylinder-selective knock control, and cylinder bank adaptive lambda control, utilising eight lambda sensors.

A total of seven radiators, and four electric cooling fans are needed to cool the engine and related components under the bonnet of the RS6.

This RS6 overtakes the position (in engine output) from the BMW M5, making about auto bhp|70|0 and convert|150|Nm|0|abbr=on more than BMW's naturally-aspirated V10 engine.

Drive passes through a modified six-speed tiptronic automatic transmission (gear ratios - 1st: 4.171, 2nd: 2.340, 3rd: 1.521, 4th: 1.143, 5th: 0.867, 6th: 0.691), with shortened shift times, with "Dynamic Shift Programme" (DSP) and "Sport" mode. It has paddle-shifts mounted behind the flat-bottomed steering wheel, similar in design to the B7 RS4. The gearbox is set by default, in conventional automatic mode, to delay up-changes during acceleration, and change down earlier to maximise engine braking. Downchanges in all modes of operation include the Powertrain Control Module ECU "blipping" the drive by wire throttle, for smoother shift changes. The hydraulic torque converter includes a lock-up function.

Like all Audi RS models, the RS6 is fitted with quattro permanent four-wheel drive as standard; including the latest asymmetric dynamic 40:60 front-to-rear default torque distribution from the Torsen T-3 centre differential. This latest incarnation of the Torsen quattro, first seen in the B7 RS4, can dynamically apportion up to a maximum 100% torque to the rear axle, or up to 80% to the front, dependent on traction conditions.

The front and rear axle final drives are conventional "open" differentials (ratio 3.317), and use the Audi "Electronic Differential Lock" (EDL). EDL is a part, or "function" of the Bosch ESP 8.0 Electronic Stability Programme, which also includes "Anti-Slip Regulation" (ASR) traction control system.

C6 Steering and suspension

Like the previous RS6 and the B7 RS4; this generation RS6 includes Audi's "Dynamic Ride Control" (DRC) Sports suspension system. The system is mainly mechanical; using a pump to provide additional pressure in the diagonally linked shock absorbers during cornering, to counteract rolling and pitching. The system can dynamically adjust the stiffness at each shock absorber constantly to maintain both a comfortable ride and high grip. On this version, it has a three-way level control, selectable from the Multi Media Interface controls.

The steering system includes rack and pinion speed-dependent "servotronic" power steering, with a ratio of 12.5, and a turning circle of 12.2 metres.

C6 Brakes, wheels & tyres

Standard brakes on the RS6 consist of drilled, radially vented and floating iron discs, the front discs sized at convert|390|mm|in|2|abbr=on in diameter by convert|36|mm|in|3|abbr=on thick, and the rears at convert|356|mm|in|2|abbr=on diameter by convert|28|mm|in|3|abbr=on. The front discs are clamped by gloss black 6-piston fixed Brembo monobloc alloy calipers incorporating the "RS" logo, and black single-piston floating calipers, with integrated mechanical parking brake linkage actuating on the rear discs.

Optional "Audi Ceramic" Carbon-Ceramic composite front brakes are available, only with 20 in wheels, which use convert|420|mm|in|2|abbr=on diameter drilled, vented, and floating discs, with grey painted 6-piston fixed Brembo monobloc alloy calipers. Irrespective of the type of disc constrution, all brake discs are mounted via high strength steel mounting pins which connect the 'working' surface of the disc to lightweight alloy disc hubs.

A "sport-biased" Bosch ESP 8.0 Electronic Stability Programme is standard, and includes Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD).

Standard road-wheels (in the UK) are 9.5Jx20 inch '5-segment-spoke' design alloy wheels running on 275/35 ZR20 102Y tyres (rated at convert|850|kg|0|abbr=on per tyre), with a no-cost optional 9.5Jx20 '7-arm double spoke' design (identical style to B7 RS4), or 9Jx19 inch '10-spoke' design alloys with 255/40 ZR19 tyres.

C6 Bodywork and styling

Initially, the new RS6 will only be available as a five-seater, five-door Avant (estate/wagon) version. Constructed from steel in a monocoque (unibody) design, the RS6 uses aluminium for its front wings and bonnet. A four-door saloon/sedan is scheduled to be available from late 2008.

Visually, the RS6 differs from its related Audi S6, having flared front and rear wheel arches, to allow for a wider track, and the deletion of front fog lights to allow for larger frontal air intakes (for the twin side-mounted intercoolers and additional radiators). The ten (per side) front light-emitting diode (LED) daytime running lights (DRLs), found on the S6 adjacent to the fog lamps in the lower front bumper, are now found within the main headlamp housing on the RS6. LED lighting technology is implemented in the rear lights. The new RS6 also includes adaptive headlights, which swivel around corners in conjuction with steering wheel movements.

Luggage capacity in the Avant ranges from 565 litres (L), to 1660 L.

Other notable C6 features

* Electro-mechanical parking brake, which doubles as a full emergency brake whilst in motion (applying maximum braking effort to all four wheels, activating the anti-lock braking system (ABS)),
* Three-stage sports-biased Bosch 8.0 Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) - standard full protection mode, ESPsportmode, ESPoff.
* DAB digital radio tuner with DVD-based satellite navigation and Multi Media Interface (MMI), with optional hybrid digital/analogue TV tuner.

ee also

* Audi S and RS models

References

External links

* [http://www.audi.com Audi.com] official corporate websitsite
* [http://www.audi.co.uk/audi/uk/en2/new_cars/S_RS_models.html Audi UK S & RS models]
* [http://www.audi.co.uk/RS6 Audi UK RS6 microsite]
* [http://www.audi.co.uk/audi/uk/en2/new_cars/a6/RS_6_Avant/gallery.html Audi UK RS6 image gallery]
* [http://www.audi.co.uk/audi/uk/en2/new_cars/a6/RS_6_Avant.html Audi UK RS6 Avant]
* [http://www.RS6.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=2 RS6 forum] at RS6.com International Community
* [http://www.rs246.com/index.php?name=PNphpBB2&file=index&c=2 RS forums] at RS246.com - Dedicated to Audi S and RS Models
* [http://www.thetorquereport.com/2007/09/580_horsepower_2008_audi_rs6_a.html The Torque Report - 2008 Audi RS6 Avant Press Release + photos]