Speedy

And they have tested the S5. Overall, they are very impressed - though they of course state the 3-series is sportier. The tag under the article headline states: "A luscious bit of auto erotica arrives in a boisterous V-8 package."

Highs: Stylish sheetmetal, stunning interior, plenty of power, and even some practicality.

Lows: Unforgiving 19-inch tires, odd fixed sunroof.

The Verdict: A good driver and a great looker.

Estimated cost: $53,000 base, $58,000 as tested - with Nav, Tech, and B&O.

Estimated mileage: 12 City / 19 Hwy. (Ouch!!!)
C&D observed: 15 mpg

0-60: 4.8 sec.
1/4 mile: 13.4 sec. @ 105 mph
Skidpad: 0.88 g
70 - 0 mph braking: 158 ft.

The last paragraph says: "What the Audi brings to the party is a real sense of style - a combination of sculpted metal and striking interior design that makes driving it a special experience. Isn't that what coupes are all about?"

Tony Swan's counterpoint to the main article reads:

"This car is likely to suffer versus an all-out road warrior such as the '08 BMW M3. The clash is inevitable; Audi cites the brashest of Bimmers as the S5's key competitor, and I'd be surprised if the M3 didn't trump the S5 in every objective test category. But, so what? The S5 may not be as quick on its feet as the M3, but it's gorgeous inside and out, makes lovely noises, and seems almost incapable of making a misstep in fancy dancing. For many, that will be enough."

I'm hurt by the cost (though that's not unexpected) and crushed by the mileage. Maybe I can live with that, maybe not. It does seem to be the only thing holding me back - though I'd also be a lot happier if it cost about 5 grand less...

bzcat

Tony Swan's counter point can be said of almost every Audi when pitted against comparable BMWs

Quattrings

I think Tony Swan got it all wrong. Audi never said that the S5 compared to the M3.

Quattrings

Good to hear, thanks for posting!

PUIDR

I see the S5 as something between a stock 335xi coupe and M3 in preformance. A little faster than a 335xi and not quit as fast as the M3, so its price should be between them. Although I will admit any 335xi owner with an extra $1200-1500 can increase boost and make the car equal to or faster than the S5 in acceleration. But I'm just talking stock numbers here. I'm sure there are many cars that cost less than the S5 that have equal to or better preformance but I'm buying it for the total package.

Fxhomie

Jeez, that mileage is not good...

MililaniTT

<ul><li><a href="http://www.caranddriver.com/features/13866/rants-and-raves-2008-audi-s5.html">http://www.caranddriver.com/features/13866/rants-and-raves-2008-audi-s5.html</a</li></ul>

jpc-S4

The big difference is that the 2008 mileage estimates have been dropped about 2 mpg, for both city and highway. That would put it almost exactly where my B6 S4 sits...

tboned

Or at least add some mileage saving technology, like displacement on demand?

i_eat_staples

like a twin turbo 2.7? even though they are super slow they get good gas mileage!