Watch the Audi RS5 Go Head 2 Head with the Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe

In the latest Head 2 Head episode, Jonny Lieberman heads to Wales and is joined by new co-host Jethro Bovingdon. The two compare the latest all-wheel-drive 2018 Audi RS5 and the rear-wheel-drive 2017 Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe.

Audi ditches the outgoing RS5’s high-revving V-8 and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic in favor of a smaller 2.9-liter twin-turbo V-6 that pumps out 450 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque and is backed by a traditional eight-speed automatic. Horsepower stays the same, but the torque increases by a whopping 126 lb-ft. The AMG C63 S outdoes the RS5 with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 that churns out 503 hp and 516 lb-ft through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Driving on back roads, the hosts right away discover how much they love the RS5’s new 2.9-liter twin turbo V-6 and its high-end power but question the responsiveness of the new eight-speed automatic versus the outgoing dual-clutch. When the hosts hop into the AMG C63 S, the powerful and lag-free twin-turbo V-8 impresses them even more, making the RS5’s powertrain feel a bit weak. However, the AMG’s dual-clutch transmission is aged and misses the mark. Both coupes provided plenty of grip and very stable driving dynamics.

Next, they head to the Millbrook Proving Ground and put both German cars on the banked, high-speed oval track for a top speed test. Jethro takes the Mercedes-AMG C63 S to a fast 175 mph on the bumpy oval. Jonny manages a 162-mph run but held back due to uncertainty over the Audi’s stability on the rough oval track.

Which car do Jonny and Jethro pick? Do they prefer the mature, buttoned-down RS5, or the bonkers AMG C63 S? Check out the video below and find out!

The post Watch the Audi RS5 Go Head 2 Head with the Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe appeared first on Motor Trend.

from Motor Trend http://ift.tt/2yUcuTT