Guy obviously doesn't get it...<ul><li><a href="http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/reviews/audi-s5-review">Lame.</a></li></ul>

He mentions how he loves the CLK black series... too bad its more than twice the price of the S5! Of course its better! A 2 year-old could have told him that.

Seriously those commentators should drive BMWs, I wish them all kinds of BMWs and Mercedes' they can get. Just leave the Audis to us :-)

Steven Lang wrote:
"For some reason it's extremely hard to sell most coupes that are in the 40 to 60k range. The only models that have routinely achieved any type of stability in that segment is the 3-Series and Corvette."

Ha-ha...LOL....tell that to the hundreds of people waiting up to 6 months to get their hands on an S5

and then.....

brownie wrote :
"I agree that they seem to have lost some focus. The TT, R8 and now the A5/S5 just confuse me - where do they fit?"
.....lost focus?????? waht is this talking about, the R8 and S5 are the new focus.......LOL

the day you are writing about a car, not a Picasso, though the S5 is a piece of art! :)

that's his shining star he starts his article with!

Not being a match to any M car, and having to refuel every 200 miles or so. But really, who is this nerd?

motor and chassis, in order to compare it to a comparably-equipped S5 (due to how many standard features the S5 has), it would still retail for over $51,000. Sorry to the 335 lovers out there but at that price point, the S5's fresh new looks and my personal desire not to see myself coming and going (the latest 3 series is as common in Fairfield County, CT as the Accord is elsewhere) is a no-brainer IMHO.

Regards,

Derek

Latest 3 series is just as common out here in Long Island, NY, too.

... is like trying to convey to a Miller Lite drinker what makes a Brunello superior to Charles Shaw - to them, they're both sour wine, one seems to be more expensive for no reason, and in any case, whisky is more potent, so why would he or she bother? For me, it's about fine details, and the entire package of tangible and intangible qualities that makes the Audi (or the Brunello) great. It's subtle and refined, and confident enough that the car doesn't need to explain to the driver what it is and where it fits; if you need these things defined for you, well, then, clearly the Audi is not for you. Taste is subjective, obviously, and sometimes, there's no accounting for it.

Not to mention I've seen at least 4 different RS4s. Though right now, only one S5 (Roswell's), aside from mine (RIP).

He was pretty much looking at the S5 as an M-competitor, which isn't. Audi branding created this issue that a lot of people don't understand- they see M cars, AMG cars and think S cars to Audis. The RS line is their true competitor, however this niche that Audi has created with the S-line, RS-line signature confuses so-called "writers" such as this blogger. $10 bucks says he hasn't driven half those cars he "reviews."

... but I was trying to make a general point about how some people don't *get* Audi, and are seemingly unable/unwilling to appreciate the subtleties that make some cars better. I certainly wasn't trying to suggest that someone who prefers BMW or M-B lacks taste - far from it. BMW's performance driving capabilities are unequaled in its class, and you're right to suggest that the S5 won't match an M-car in performance or feel.

While I didn't buy the car to be exclusive, it is nice and it makes me feel like I'm driving something special.

Steven Lang says, "I would take a TSX and Miata over the S5 hands down."

Are you F-ing kidding me?!!!!

A TSX and a Miata over an S5 is the epitome of not getting it. As a few of you have stated, I'm really glad that I don't fit in the completely moronic and pointlessly arrogant category that these people are in.

That is all

The lack of an automatic transmission and the sunroof that doesn't slide back. He's clearly not a true car enthusiast. He'd rather have an automatic BMW... fits their customer profile for sure. what a retard.

competition offers plus more. Not less. I personally dont care about a sunroof if the car is just simply amazing though.

Thankfully there are many businesses that do what they think is right, not try to "match the competition plus more". Some industries are a giant mess by taking that strategy. He might have a preference for the way a certain company does something, but that company is not necessarily the benchmark or standard.

I suspect looking at the car, and sitting it, that Audi isn't making huge margin on the car, remember this car easily could have flopped because they aren't trying to go el cheapo mass market like BMW, so, with that said, it made the most sense to introduce 6spd manual 60K coupe to the enthusiast first, that's who would want it, and be willing to pay the price. Judging by all his other complaints auto or no auto why would they cater to you who evidently have no intent on buying the car, especially, at a $60K price.

Let him try to live with the Black series. Not a practical car at all.

particularly the 335. He also brings up the statement that the S5 can't match the M3. I guess he missed the part that the S5 has more torque and when it comes to "in gear" measurements, as well as 0-30 and 0-60, the S5 either wins or is close enough. Just a very biased article and a chance for him to make statements that are rediculous and uninformed. He also says he doesn't understand the R8, so it's apparent that he is as clueless as they come. He can have his Miata.

i'm asking this because i would like to quiet a friend of mine. he swears that bmw is the benchmark of german luxury.

luxury appointments (insert I-Drive here) but for their 'road feel' and (historically) their powerful naturally aspirated engines which are starting to be a thing of the past with their current 3.0TT and new announcements of turbocharging their V8. Great cars but does a slightly better road feel at the steering wheel mean they are superior all around? 90% of the people would never notice the difference. Things are changing though and the best drivers car this year went to Audi's R8, not a BMW.

I don't think it was ever really thought of as an amazing machine. They should do something wild and develop a high performance car instead of more hydrogen cars. It'll be years before that's economical for general use.

that the 330D could make it here in the U.S. in 2008. Audi should definitely stay on top of the game and get their new A4 3.0TDI here first.

Agree on the hydrogen power, that is many years away at best.<ul><li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ch-OkHwMHJw">A5 vs 330D</a></li></ul>

I like the Audi S5 better than most BMWs even though I currently drive a 1996 BMW 3-series coupes. Only bugger is how much hate and pissing matches exist between fanboys of both camps. Both great cars just have different design and approach- Audi is best balanced GT car except for the racecar exotic R8 and BMW is more stripped down sports coupe.

For the money- I'd take the S5 over the 335 coupe even though the S5 costs almost 10k more than a 335 coupe. But at least its less than the new M3.

I don't care much for Mercedes except for perhaps the high end line of CLK63 AMG and McClaren but then we are talking mega bucks.

Nah my bet on my next car is either the Audi S5, RS5 if they make one, an Audi R4 if it gets made or Porsche Cayman S when Porsche redesigns it in 2010 and adds more power. Should be good time to find best car either Audi or Porsche- both in same family pretty much (VAG) which makes Lamborghini and Bugatti as well.

I just wish so many Audi folks were not so hateful toward other makes like BMW. Both great cars. But BMW are a dime a dozen in southern California as are Mercedes and Lexus. Audi is more unique and wont be as many S5 on the road.

All those people on that site were believing every word he said and there is no way any of them had experienced the car. I don't think they would be the kind of people who would end up owning one of these cars anyway. I've been in 2 S5s and a 335i for comparison and I can say that there is none (S5 is on another level). One of the S5s I have been in was like yours only black exterior presuming you have carbon atlas interior inlays with the magma, it was stunning.

I've not driven either of the cars however basing this off what other propper drivers and unbiased reviewers have said the S5 is better again, and I'm not surprised about that. Some people like to try the "but the 335 gets better fuel consumption" trick. But as I say, if you can actually afford a car like this fuel prices are not going to be a major issue.

Not sure if I agree with all of his statements, but at the end of the day, what exactly should have compelled me to buy this over my 335?

I see a lot of comments here that you see BMW's on every street corner so the S5 will be more exclusive. So I should buy it because I won't see so many on the road? That's a lot of extra $$$ for nothing. Looks are subjective, performance is not. I buy the car with the most bang for my buck, whatever bucks I have at the time I'm buying. Hard to argue against the 335i.

Anyways, just thought I'd come bug my Audi bretheren a bit. Getting my A4 bumper repaired and will be willing soon :(. I'd actually like to see an S5 rolling down the road. Have yet to see one on the road yet (just at dealer)

Cheers

I bought an S5 over the 335 that I came close to purchasing. For a starting price of $50k on the S5, compared to the $48k of the 335 that I spec'd (with options), I saw the S5 as a steal. You dont have to spend 58-60k on the S5 to get what I've outlined below)

1. V8 Engine dynamics (torque, power delivery)
2. Sounds (exhaust, engine)
3. Audi Design (although 3 Coupe is very good)
4. Overall Interior Quality and Presentation (Nicer S seating, and S touches)
5. Overall Exterior Presentation (lines, integrated spoiler)
5. Ergonomics (prefer new Audi design - A6 style
6. Amenities (Bang &amp; Olufsen, MMI)
7. Quattro vs RWD
8. Safety (not tested yet but likely better than BMW 3 series)
9. S Car (not a standard model) + 19" wheels, body upgrades
10. Overall Quality (fitment of body parts and interior materials)

I'm sure I can name more if I had the cars side by side and took the time to identify everything, but there is no question in my mind that the slight premium of the S5 is worth it. Oh one last one: exclusiveness ;)

the fact is, I just liked the S5 better. The 335 is a great car, but (IMHO) the Audi looks more refined, sounds better and has an interior I *want* to sit in, unlike the BMW, which has an interior that you settle for because the care drives so well.

The understeer and body roll do bother me a bit but a set of relatively inexpensive H-Sport sway bars should reduce both of those straight away.. as soon as they are available, that it.

If the reviewer doesn't like the S5, he's welcome to buy a bimmer. If he talks anything like the way he writes he would just annoy the hell out of folks at Audi get-togethers anyway.

1. 3.0L Twin Turbo Engine of the year
2. 3.0L Twin Turbo Engine of the year
3. Looks are Subjective
4. "Presentation"?? Subjective
5(a) "Presentation"?? Subjective
5(b) Ergonomics...Subjective
6. Amenities?? HK Logic 7 is std. (Nav is extra)
7. I would say AWD&gt;X-drive, but that's not what we're discussing. How is AWD&gt;RWD? The balanced nature of the 3 has been shown to equal out whatever performance benefits you might get from AWD. Plus the AWD systems makes the car still nose heavy. I'm in Socal so no snow.
8. Hahah..that's a good one. Not even tested yet and you put it on the list. You're reaching dude.
9. Yes..and a 335 is not an M. Don't really see your point. You're paying for the S car so of course it's gonna have more goodies. There is a significant price difference so you're not getting that stuff for free. Also, anything over 18" tires is just for looks, as is a body kit.
10. Built quality..no doubt... Audi wins, but the 335i is not exactly a buick.

So really the only thing that compels me here is the interior fit/finish. Even at that, I can't stand all the friggin buttons around the shifter. Just don't see what I'm getting for my extra 6 or so thousand dollars.

That being said..your ride is sweet! Maybe when Audi returns to their turbo charging roots I might be back. This V8 is just so bad on mileage it's not even funny. Unfortunately, the 6 cylinder is not even an option for anyone who wants some nice power. Plus, the tunability of the 335 is obvious.

Both cars have their own pros/cons for sure and would be happy with either.

But - you might want to do a bit of research on best engines though before writing off Audi. The 4.2 V8 has made the list multiple times as well.

(1) Audi's 4.2 V8 on Wards 10 best Engines list (see link)

(2) Sounds - I've driven both enough to say that I prefer the S5 sounds. It's part of the experience for me and a 6 just does not sound like an 8 cylinder. I love turbos but I didn't hear any turbo whine while I had the 335.

(3-5)Of course style and presentation are subjective but the majority of magazines out there will pick any Audi interior over that of BMW's. Audi 'IS' the benchmark for interiors. I prefer Audi's design direction with the large grill, LEDs, and wide stance and 19" wheels. I do think the A5/S5 are one of the most beautiful cars on the road right now. The looks and stares that S5s get are almost too much but it tells you something, it is a great looking automobile. BMW has done well with the 335 and overall they have a good approach but I don't think it's executed as well when standing in the presence of the S5. It's not my preference.

(6)Lets be real here - the Logic 7 system isn't close to as good as Bang &amp; Olufsen and MMI crushes I-Drive, but don't have to take my word for it, check out the majority of reviews.

(7)I'll take Quattro over a non-LSD one wheel rear drive 335. Sometimes I like to launch at full power while entering a corner to exploit the benefits of Quattro. Try doing that in the 3 and tell me the computer doesn't take over to control that one rear wheel from spinning. For me there is no comparison, and I live in So-Cal also.

(8) Safety is reaching? Audi has a history of taking the awards for crash safety. I have no doubt that Audi will take it with the B8 chassis again just as they have with the Q7, A6, and A3. Then again, the 3 series is not exactly an unsafe car, but I'd rather have the safest car.

(9) On having an S vs a basic car. Come on man, you'd rather have a basic car? Agreed, your paying a slight differential, but most people would prefer a M, S, or RS car particularly if pricing is in the same ballpark as it is with the 335 and S5.

(10)I agree BMW isn't badly built, it's still a nicely built vehicle.

I think I was very subjective when comparing both cars and ultimately I'm very happy to have waited for the S5. I have many BMW friends that tell me they prefer the S5 over the 335 and that says something on it's own. Not trying to convince you but giving you 'my' reasoning for choosing one over the other. I could have purchased and liked the 335 (it's price/value ration is very good), but I waited and really enjoy this S5 model - it's fantastic and I still think it's a good value for the level of car that you get.<ul><li><a href="http://wardsauto.com/reports/2006/tenbest/">10 best engines</a></li></ul>

I didn't notice the V8 on the wards list...too funny. However, this was really about one aspect of the car being "better" than the other. So both engines are there so it's a wash and that's a good thing! V8 has more power but handling a little better in the BMW so it's pretty much a wash on performance numbers. The cars are very similar so yes, a lot of choices will be subjective. I get that. To me, the biggest difference in the cars is the powerplant. Personally, I think the new TT trumps the V8. Just my opinion.

I already have the 335i in my garage and the A5/S5 was just being announced when I put down my deposit last Feb. I don't even think the engines/pricing were available then (the official A5 photos had just come out). Seeing the photos definately gave me pause (a beautiful car..no doubt..the new grill looks much nicer now, second only to the TT which looks awesome I think), however, my estimates of those cars were pretty spot on. The A5 would be an underpowered V6 but cheaper...the S5 would have more power but more $$$. I knew that V8 would end up in the S, but like I said, get real with that MPG (gass guzzling engines are no bueno regardless if you're rich and don't care how much a gallon of premium is).

I was just so impressed by the new Twin Turbo and MPG on a 300HP car I jumped all over it. Sure, I can afford both but I just don't see what the V8 gets me other than more noise, heavier and worse MPG.

Part of my choice was I had already owned an Audi so wanted to try something different. This was the first BMW that I didn't think you were paying an extra 5 grand just for the badge. It actually had the grunt to back up the price. Also, I did Euro Delivery so I ended up paying 45k loaded minus the dynamic cruise and active steering.. That's about 6k off MSRP. I think that's pretty much a steal for what you're getting. I hear Audi has now started an ED program but not sure what the details are.

Ok, I think I've beat this topic enough. I'll be checking in here and there to see what tinkering you guys are doing with your rides. I'm not trolling, just trying to make an insightful comparison between the two (well, kinda pointless since I already bout the 3 haha..oh well). Props to all you folks who get the S. You're getting one helluva nice car and who knows, depending on how my ownership experience goes with my first Bimmer, I might be back some day. Once you go German, you never go back (however, I don't see me owning a Benz until I'm 50). So it'll probably be BMW vs. Audi for me for the rest of my life.

Hope you're having fun driving. My 3er is quite an upgrade from the A4 and it's so much fun to drive, which is really what it boils down to.

I must say, Audiworld trumps the BMW forums. Most of you guys here are very well spoken and have well thought posts. Some of the bickering over there is just unreadable (328 vs 335 arguments for example..ugh. I need to come here sometimes just for my sanity. I spent 8 years on the B5 forum and you never got any of that (mostly because the S5 guys had there own forum so there were not constant mine is faster than yours arguments)

Auf Wiedersehen!

I also won't be buying a Mercedes anytime soon. Not that they aren't good cars, but overall they just don't excite me and they really need to bring up the reliability to more acceptable levels. I have respect for both BMW and Audi.

Had the wait been any longer for the S5, I probably would be driving a 335 right now. It's a great car and I like the tunability. Congrats on your ride and thanks for providing your view to us in the forum ;)