Audi RS 6 Avant

vs

Audi V8

Germany vs Germany — 2010 vs 1990

Audi RS 6 Avant (2010)
Audi V8 (1990)
Specifications
RS 6 Avant C7V8 quattro 3.6
Horsepower560 hp250 hp
Torque516 lb-ft251 lb-ft
Engine Size3,993 cc3,562 cc
0-60 mph3.7 sec7.2 sec
Top Speed190 mph152 mph
¼ Mile11.5 sec15.3 sec
Weight3,792 lbs
Wheelbase2,915 mm2,693 mm
Length4,979 mm4,870 mm
Units Produced21,322
Original MSRP$52,000
Value (Excellent)$110,000$30,000
Collectibility5/106/10
Rarity5/107/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 2010 Audi RS 6 Avant C7 brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1990 Audi V8 quattro 3.6 answers with stronger collectibility, better value. 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 2010 Audi RS 6 Avant C7 with the 1990 Audi V8 quattro 3.6 highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 2010 Audi RS 6 Avant C7 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 560 hp compared to 250 hp, a 310-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Audi RS 6 Avant uses a V8 DOHC 32V Twin-Turbo displacing 3,993 cc, while the Audi V8 relies on a V8 DOHC 32V with 3,562 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2010 Audi RS 6 Avant C7 edges ahead at 3.7 seconds versus 7.2 seconds. On the collector market, the 2010 Audi RS 6 Avant C7 commands a significant premium over the 1990 Audi V8 quattro 3.6, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.