Audi S4

vs

Subaru WRX STI

Germany vs Japan — 1991 vs 2014

Audi S4 (1991)
Subaru WRX STI (2014)
Specifications
S4 C4 UrS4 2.2 20V TurboWRX STI S208
Horsepower230 hp329 hp
Torque258 lb-ft319 lb-ft
Engine Size2,226 cc1,994 cc
0-60 mph5.9 sec4.2 sec
Top Speed155 mph162 mph
¼ Mile14.3 sec12.7 sec
Weight3,704 lbs3,175 lbs
Wheelbase2,693 mm2,650 mm
Length4,790 mm4,595 mm
Units Produced7,298450
Original MSRP$43,950
Value (Excellent)$60,000$100,000
Collectibility7/108/10
Rarity6/109/10
The Verdict

The 2014 Subaru WRX STI S208 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1991 Audi S4 C4 UrS4 2.2 20V Turbo counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

Putting the 1991 Audi S4 C4 UrS4 2.2 20V Turbo against the 2014 Subaru WRX STI S208 is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Germany versus Japan. The 2014 Subaru WRX STI S208 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 329 hp compared to 230 hp, a 99-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Audi S4 uses a Inline-5 DOHC 20V Turbo displacing 2,226 cc, while the Subaru WRX STI relies on a Flat-4 DOHC 16-valve turbo (EJ207) with 1,994 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2014 Subaru WRX STI S208 edges ahead at 4.2 seconds versus 5.9 seconds. The Subaru WRX STI carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 529 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 450 units built, the 2014 Subaru WRX STI S208 is considerably scarcer than the Audi S4's 7,298 examples. On the collector market, the 2014 Subaru WRX STI S208 commands a significant premium over the 1991 Audi S4 C4 UrS4 2.2 20V Turbo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.