Is it an Audi, or a Porsche? A silly question though that may sound, this iconic machine is actually a bit of both. Manufactured across just one year (from 1994 – 1995) the Audi 80 RS (as it is officially known) was a collaboration between Audi and Porsche and holds the envy-inducing accolade of being the first ever RS Audi.
The RS2 truly put Audi on the map as a manufacturer of high-performance, high-quality, useable, family cars. The RS2 featured a hugely tuned version of Audi’s proven inline-five, turbocharged engine, and their ever-popular ‘Quattro‘ all-wheel-drive system.
Porsche’s main involvement in the car was with the engine. They treated it to a larger turbo-charger, along with a heavy-duty intercooler and higher flow fuel injectors, a newly designed camshaft, a more efficient induction system, and a low-pressure exhaust system. Once Porsche had worked their magic, power peaked at 311 bhp! Incredibly during an Autocar road test, it was proven that the RS2 could accelerate to 30mph faster than a McLaren F1. Yes, a five-seater family estate car could beat the world’s finest hyper-car to 30mph. Porsche also had a large hand in the design and tuning of the suspension and braking on the RS2 (notice the Porsche 911 ‘Cup’ wheels). This resulted in a heavy car (for the time) that handled like a car half its weight.
Audi initially intended to build 2200 of these cars, however demand was strong (for obvious reasons) and 2891 cars ended up rolling off the production line. You won’t be surprised to read that these cars are increasingly hard to get hold of, and values are knocking on the door of £100,000 for tidy examples.
As you may be able to tell, we LOVE these cars. They are true icons and really represent the original ‘high-performance’ estate car. Cars such as the M5 Touring, the RS6, and the E63 AMG owe their existence to the overwhelming success of the RS2. Peter’s car looks absolutely stunning, when you read the interview with him you will be in no doubt that he has a genuine passionate for the marque.
Audi RS2 “Avant” (1994)
Highlights
- As a lifelong Audi fan Peter wanted a useable, high-performance car that was interesting to drive, and would hold its value. The RS2 fitted the bill perfectly.
- Mechanically the car is still in perfect condition, but as Peter uses and enjoys the car (which is what should be done) cosmetically he's recently done a few bits to tidy up the paintwork, interior and wheels.
- The car has a slight power-boost from standard spec. The engine was chipped by Sportec giving it 355bhp. Other than that Peter plans to keep the car completely original.
Interview with the owner
- When did you first purchase the car Peter?In 2017.
- What made you buy as RS2?I was looking for a fast car which keeps its value for the next years. As I've been an AUDI Fan since childhood, the RS2 was always on my mind. I love that unique design elements from Porsche, especially the rear with the striking reflection bar.
- What's it like to drive?It's a very pure driving experience. You hear and you feel all the forces… so satisfying! The turbo whistle of the powerful 5-inline 20V engine gives me goosebumps every time.Combined with the typical 5-cylinder sound it's a pure joy to drive and command this beautiful vehicle!
- What's the current BHP?355 bhp!
- Has the car been restored / rebuilt?Yes, partly. The car was in a really good technical condition when I bought it, and it still is. The only thing battering it is the tooth of time. This year I started to restore a couple things like the paint, rims and especially the interior which is still in progress at this time. The roof liner will be refurbished and also the door panels and front seats. I hope to be done with that within the next weeks.As I am a mechanic, I always do on my own whatever my skills let me be able to. I'm not a saddler, so that work I let be done by a pro.
- Has the car been modified in any way?Yes you will notice slightly more power than standard – this is because the former owner of the car had it chipped by Sportec. That is still the only considerable modification on the car.
- So we assume you plan to keep the car original?Yes definitely.
- Is the car a "keeper" or will you sell it one day?I think I'll sell it at some point!
- Ok final question – ignoring cost, and assuming you couldn’t go and sell it for profit… what’s your dream car and why?For the moment it's the RS7 C8. But the RS2 already comes pretty close to my dream car!
😍 level of want through the roof!