Germany vs Germany — 2006 vs 1984
| RS4 Avant B7 4.2 V8 | Sport Quattro S1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 420 hp | 306 hp |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,163 cc | 2,133 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 4.5 sec | 4.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 12.8 sec | 13.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,770 lbs | 2,866 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,648 mm | 2,224 mm |
| Length | 4,586 mm | 4,240 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 214 |
| Original MSRP | $71,900 | $110,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $85,000 | $800,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 2006 Audi RS4 Avant B7 4.2 V8 brings more power, quicker acceleration, better value to the table, and the 1984 Audi Sport Quattro S1 answers with lighter weight, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Audi has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 2006 Audi RS4 Avant B7 4.2 V8 with the 1984 Audi Sport Quattro S1 highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 2006 Audi RS4 Avant B7 4.2 V8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 420 hp compared to 306 hp, a 114-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Audi RS4 Avant uses a V8 DOHC 32V displacing 4,163 cc, while the Audi Sport Quattro relies on a Inline-5 with 2,133 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2006 Audi RS4 Avant B7 4.2 V8 edges ahead at 4.5 seconds versus 4.8 seconds. The Audi Sport Quattro carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 904 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1984 Audi Sport Quattro S1 commands a significant premium over the 2006 Audi RS4 Avant B7 4.2 V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1984 Audi Sport Quattro S1 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.