Audi TT RS

Developed by Audi’s high performance subsidiary quattro GmbH at Neckarsulm, the Audi TT RS (available in Coupé and Roadster), it includes an all-new 2.5 litre inline five-cylinder Turbocharged Fuel Stratified Injection (TFSI) petrol engine rated at 340 PS (335 hp/250 kW) and 450 N·m (332 lb·ft) @1,600-5,300 rpm.

It has a 6-speed manual gearbox, and like all “RS” models, is only available with Audi’s ‘trademark’ quattro four-wheel drive system, with the TT RS using a specially adapted version of the latest generation multi-plate clutch from Haldex Traction. Additions to the quattro system include a constant velocity joint before the propeller shaft, and a compact rear-axle differential – uprated to cope with increased torque.

Like the TTS, the TT RS has a 10 mm (0.4 in) lower ride height, optional “Audi Magnetic Ride”, and rides on standard 18-inch roadwheels with 245/45 ZR tyres (optional 19″ rims are also available). The brakes are uprated to include two-piece cross-drilled and radially vented front discs, sized at 370 mm (14.6 in) in diameter. The front discs are clamped by gloss black painted four-piston calipers, adorned with the RS logo.

It includes a fixed rear spoiler (retractable optional), and has black interior with heated Alcantara/leather sports seats (Silk Nappa, Fine Nappa leather optional). The Recaro “RS bucket” seats, first seen in the Audi B7 RS4 are also available as an option.

Official performance figures indicate the TT RS Coupé will accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 seconds (4.7s for the Roadster), with an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). There is a factory option to de-restrict the top speed to 280 km/h (174 mph). The Coupé has a kerb weight of 1,450 kilograms (3,197 lb), and the Roadster weighs in at 1,510 kg (3,329 lb).

The car began sale in March 2009, with delivery beginning in summer.

Historically, all “RS” models have some aspect of their assembly carried out at the factory in Neckarsulm, Germany. The TT RS will be the first RS vehicle that will not have any of its assembly performed in Neckarsulm, and will be completely assembled in the Audi factory in Gyor, Hungary.