We’ve already seen what the match-up between the Audi RS6 Avant Quattro Tiptronic and Mercedes-AMG E63 S 4Matic+ 9G-Tronic is like down a straight-line with our previous video on the two cars. Despite its grippy Quattro system and impressive launch off the line, the superwagon was unable to hold off the muscular sedan towards the 400 metre mark. Now, it’s time to see how these cars manage around the bends of Killarney Raceway with track ace Deon Joubert behind the wheel.
Ingolstadt’s finest rocks up with 441 kW and 800 N.m from its 4,0-litre V8 petrol twin-turbo engine which is down on power in comparison to the E63 S’s 450 kW and 850 N.m. The Mercedes also has a weight advantage by virtue of being around 200 kg lighter than the Audi. It’s a classic showdown; Audi RS6 vs Mercedes E63 s. Who will take the victory? CAR Magazine editor Ray Leathern and journalist Sean Parker put these animals through their paces on Killarney International Raceway in Cape Town, South Africa.
What gives the RS6 an advantage around the track? For starters, despite weighing closer to two tonnes, the RS6 rides on a comprehensive adaptive air suspension that is controlled electronically. The all-new air spring modules boast an increased spring rate of 50 per cent compared to the previous generation model. Fitted to our test unit for some added edge is a dynamic ride control that improves grip and handling at higher speeds.
Coming in rather competitively, the E63 S uses a rather similar setup by means of its Air Body control which manages the front and rear multilink suspension. The AMG also benefits from fully variable torque distribution giving it a bit more edge through the corners.
On paper, the odds are against the RS6 but as we all know, what’s written down on the spec sheet doesn’t necessarily translate to performance on the track…
