Quattro no longer means Torsen, it's now just the name Audi gives to their AWD system, much like BMW's use of X-Drive. Audi does indeed use both Torsen and Haldex. While we're on the Quattro subject, the 2007 S6 is actually built by Quattro GmbH, Audi's subsidiary that operates much like the M division within BMW.

Regarding the tests, your preconceptions were essentially shared in all cases and the clear expectation was that the S6 simply would not compete with the M5 and the E63. Thing is, it did, in all cases placing higher than the M5. Every test noted that the S6 defied expectations. In some cases, mainly with the 6-speed, they noted that the M5 failed to meet them.

Perhaps its the old truism that if you don't like the result then the test must be flawed. Like you I would be inclined to treat one test with scepticism, but when we see similar results from three different tests (with the M5 in both SMG and 6 speed) you have to concede that they just may be on to something.

Tests aside, I'm also a 550 Sport owner so we have the same benchmark. I've tested the 2007 S6 (which BTW bears very little resemblance in build or engineering to the prior C5 version) and I've experienced for myself why the S6 is placing so well. I took the test drive because I'm also considering whether to get the LCI 550 M-Sport or the 2007 S6.

My perspective is simply that it's cars like the S6 that are going to keep BMW at the top of its game. The E60 M5 doesn't dominate its class in quite the way the E39 M5 did. As awesome a car as the M5 is, the competition is closer than ever. Some would argue that it may be better. BMW will respond in the way they know best, which is an even better M5. Mind you, the RS6 is on the horizon too.

For now, though, the 2007 S6 is the bargain of the century. If you get the chance to drive one, and can push it hard, it won't disappoint.

 

CVT,

Audi A3,S3 and TTQuattro all use Haldex.

The mag boys are freebasing their results. The same Mags that have awarded BMW's countless times, but in this case Audi won out over the M5 in two separate tests.

I agree with SWAJames that it will only make BMW better. Better cars, regarless of manufacturer, are good for all of us.

 

Agreed, the fit and finish of the interior of the Audi is superior to the current 545 and 550. But the 2008 LSI will somewhat close that gap. For me, like Hinkley the Audi is not an option. I like to drive a stick. Although the logical choice in June for me will be the 550i with SP. Having driven most of the time in Los Angeles, I am actually considering the perfectly potent 535 bi-turbo. With a 6spd I am sure it will perform almost as well as my current 545 and probably handle better. If the 550 with SP M package and all the bling is over $70K then I cannot justify it. I paid $58K for ED in 2004 for a well loaded 545i.

 

And I used to have an old S3 with was a bit lairy with the old haldex - the transfer of power could catch you out sometimes through a corner - woho - oversteer !

 

Bottom line is that all the facts point that the 550i and more over the M5 are better driver's cars. All the facts, rwd, etc etc. I for one hate to drive an awd that fast on dry tarmac, cuz i don't like to be surpirsed by the power shifting between the axles.

 

The Torsen quattro is much better - I drive one regularly no big shifts in power.

The Audi RS4 is probably the best car I have driven (incl an M5).

 

Thanks for the clarification on Quattro. Has Audi realized that Torsion isn't classing leading in every application?

I'm quite aware of the tests and am still skeptical. AND NOT because I didn't like the results, mind you we own an Audi (happy with it) and waited for the new C6 to arrive before choosing the E60.

Its a fairly obvious point that the competition has closed the gap. Everyone is after this luxury segment with Lexus and Infiniti making the most progress. Yes, this is good for us and will make BMWs better too. Hopefully, alittle cheaper.

Swajames,

Have you compared the M5 with the S6? Like on the same day and in the same frame of mind? Given your keen interest in the S6, maybe you can confirm the auto mags assessments for us. I find it puzzling that you are torn with the potential selection of a LCI 550 M-sport over the bargain of the century S6. Brand loyalty aside. Since the S6 topped the M5 rather easily, isn't it a sheer waste of time thinking about the new 550 M-sport? I mean one mag had the M5 finishing last, like the dud of the group. My Lord. Can the new logic be the 550 Msport is almost a bargain of the century and the M5 offers only a marginal edge over its stablemate? Have the boys from Munich failed to make the M5 special and not much better than their V8 E60? Is the M5 a clear waste of money?

I'm not buying it. Nah too weird. The six speeder in the M5 might be a mistake.

I think the question to answer is whether the 550 M-sport turns out to be the equal or be close to the S6.

In the meantime, I'll just trundle down to my Audi dealer and drive that bargain of the century S6. I'll be clear headed and sober as a judge. The thing is that car makes me so very sleepy. My Audi dealer does however make good coffee, so I'll have and be ready for a V10.

CVT Benhogan

 

I just priced out the Audi S6 website on the there website. It seems that the Audi is a few thousand more, and performance wise (0-60) is about the same as the 550...Plus I think the interior looks very out-dated...

 

I am sure it is but for driving involvement RWD is always superior to quattro. You simply cannot have fun with awd unless in snow. Period.

Take that and put it in an almost 50:50 weight distributed chassis like the one from the E60, sharp steering (made not only because of the bmw steering but from the simple fact that the front tires are spared by any hp on them) and you get the big picture of a true driver's car.Which however you put Audi is not be it S or RS models. For me it's clear power will always have to be at the back.

 

Exactly. Audi has that effect on me too. It makes me sleepy, it doesn't cheer me up and it doesn't involve me. For me even in my 535d i AM 100% sure i can have sooooo much more fun than in an S6. I just have to turn the dsc off (which it happens i do it almost daily and have some fun with the back of the car). Touching that little button and switching to DS instantly sets my heart-beat to a higher programme just to prepare myself for the thrills. Not to mention the stupid grin i have on my face after a nice powerslide or smth like that when the back end dances in alot of tire smoke. In an S6 i'll be just like any other 40-50yr old bloke driving through town at low speeds cocky about my S model. Let alone in an A6 which really puts me to sleep.