Audi R8

vs

Audi Sport quattro S1

Germany vs Germany — 2004 vs 1985

Audi R8 (2004)
Audi Sport quattro S1 (1985)
Specifications
R8 V10Sport quattro S1 E2 Pikes Peak
Horsepower525 hp598 hp
Torque391 lb-ft457 lb-ft
Engine Size5,204 cc2,110 cc
0-60 mph3.7 sec3.1 sec
Top Speed196 mph162 mph
¼ Mile11.8 sec11.2 sec
Weight2,403 lbs
Wheelbase2,650 mm2,204 mm
Length4,431 mm4,240 mm
Units Produced3
Value (Excellent)$140,000$10,000,000
Collectibility5/1010/10
Rarity4/1010/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 2004 Audi R8 V10 brings higher top speed, better value to the table, and the 1985 Audi Sport quattro S1 E2 Pikes Peak answers with more power, quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

Audi has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 2004 Audi R8 V10 with the 1985 Audi Sport quattro S1 E2 Pikes Peak highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1985 Audi Sport quattro S1 E2 Pikes Peak holds a clear advantage in raw power with 598 hp compared to 525 hp, a 73-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Audi R8 uses a V10 DOHC 40V displacing 5,204 cc, while the Audi Sport quattro S1 relies on a Inline-5 DOHC 20V Turbocharged with 2,110 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1985 Audi Sport quattro S1 E2 Pikes Peak edges ahead at 3.1 seconds versus 3.7 seconds. On the collector market, the 1985 Audi Sport quattro S1 E2 Pikes Peak commands a significant premium over the 2004 Audi R8 V10, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1985 Audi Sport quattro S1 E2 Pikes Peak rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.