Audi S5 0-60 Time: A Familiar Story
While the Audi S5 0-60 time saw consistent improvement earlier in its lifecycle, from 5 seconds down to 4.4 seconds, it's stagnated over the past half-decade and has been surpassed by its chief rivals.
Audi S5 0-60 Times
Audi S5 0-60 Time Analysis
The S5 was introduced in 2008 with a 4.2 liter V8 engine that produced 354 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, yielding a 4.9 second 0-60 time in its six-speed manual variant.
In 2010, a convertible was added to the lineup, which Audi calls the Cabriolet, and it used a 3-liter turbocharged V6 engine, which had the same amount of torque as the V8 but less horsepower.
In spite of weighing 300 pounds more than the V8 coupe, its recorded 0-60 time was only a couple fractions of a second slower, at 5.1 seconds.
The V8 engine was dropped in 2013, with the coupe now getting the V6 engine.
Performance didn’t suffer, and actually improved, as some reports of the 14/15 S5, which used the same engine, had it getting to 60 in 4.5 seconds. Car and Driver attributed the improvement to a broader torque curve.
The convertible consistently lagged a tad behind the coupe in terms of acceleration, attributable to its additional heft.
2018 again saw changes with a new engine that infused the S5 with 21 more horsepower and 44 more lb-ft of torque, bringing total power output back up to 354hp.
This era also welcomed the Sportback, a body style that offered a fresh take on the S5's aesthetics and utility without compromising on its newfound performance edge. Both the Sportback and the coupe recorded the same 0-60 time, now down to 4.4 seconds.
This year also saw the manual transmission dropped, making way for a universally implemented 8-speed automatic, streamlining the lineup and, in a sense, bidding adieu to an era of manual supremacy in performance vehicles.
From then on, Audi's script has remained largely unchanged, with Audi seemingly finding its sweet spot in the S5's design and performance.
As you can see, the S5's performance trajectory is similar to some other cars we've looked at like the 370Z, where the initial entry sets the performance benchmark with a 0-60 time of around 5 seconds, with only marginal improvements in acceleration over the next 15+ years.
Comparative Analysis: Audi S5 and Its Rivals
In the segment of German luxury performance coupes, the Audi S5's main competitors are the Mercedes-AMG C43 and the BMW M440i xDrive. The Mercedes-AMG C43 achieves a 0-60 mph acceleration in approximately 4 seconds, while the BMW M440i xDrive records a slightly faster time of 3.8 seconds.
The BMW M440i's performance is supported by a 3.0L turbocharged engine coupled with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing a total of 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This combination not only enhances power output but also aims to improve fuel efficiency.
Conversely, the AMG C43 Sedan is powered by a twin-turbo V6 engine, generating 402 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, showcasing Mercedes-AMG's focus on high performance derived from advanced engine technology.
They are all similarly priced, with an MSRP of around $60,000. The S5 is slower than both, but when compared to the Bimmer, the slower speed might be a sacrifice you're willing to make to not have to look at that hideous grille.
Audi S5 0-60 Time Across Trims
While most S5 tests are performed with the more expensive trim packages, you can expect the same acceleration across Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige trims, as they all share the same powertrain.
The choice between the S5 trims, therefore, doesn't hinge on differences in performance but rather on the level of luxury, technology, and additional features each trim offers.
While the S5's performance remains a constant, the driving experience can be subtly influenced by non-powertrain related features available in higher trims, such as:
- Adaptive Suspension: Available in higher trims, can enhance handling and ride comfort, adapting to driving conditions and preferences.
- Wheel Size and Design: Larger or different wheel designs may slightly affect handling and ride quality.
- Aerodynamic Features: Minor differences in exterior styling or aerodynamic enhancements in higher trims can theoretically influence performance, though these effects are generally minimal in everyday driving conditions.
In summary, while the Audi S5's trims do not differ in their fundamental performance figures, the higher trims offer advanced technology and comfort features that can enrich the driving experience, making the vehicle feel more premium or tailored to specific tastes without altering its core performance capabilities.
What's next for the Audi S5?
The 2025 Audi S5 is expected to feature a redesign while keeping the same V6 engine, although there is some speculation that a hybrid system could be introduced, similar to the M440i's; maybe it could finally propel the S5 to a sub-4 second 0-60 time.
Conclusion
Audi successfully maintained - and even marginally improved - performance levels after phasing out the V8 engine early in its model lifecycle. However, over the past six years, there have been no significant changes introduced, during which time competitors have advanced their own offerings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast is the Audi S5 0-60 time?
The specific time can vary depending on the model year and configuration. Generally, the Audi S5 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 4.4 to 5.0 seconds. The latest models equipped with a turbocharged V6 engine and Quattro all-wheel-drive system tend to be on the faster end of that range.
How fast is the Audi S5 V8?
The Audi S5 was equipped with a V8 engine in its earlier models, specifically from 2007 to 2012. This 4.2-liter V8 engine allowed the S5 to deliver a robust performance, with acceleration times from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.8 to 5.0 seconds. It's worth noting that these figures can vary slightly based on the car's condition, transmission type, and driver.
Is the Audi S5 twin turbo?
The Audi S5 has seen various engine configurations over the years, including V6 and V8 engines. However, it is not equipped with a twin-turbo engine. Instead, the current Audi S5 models feature a 3.0-liter TFSI V6 engine that uses a single twin-scroll turbocharger. This setup provides a balance of power and efficiency, delivering strong performance without the complexity of a twin-turbo system.
Is Audi S5 worth the money?
Whether the Audi S5 is worth the money depends on your priorities and preferences. It offers a blend of luxury, performance, and technology that many drivers find appealing. With its powerful engine, sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, and high-quality interior, the S5 stands out in its class. However, it also comes with a premium price tag, and potential buyers should consider the cost of ownership, including maintenance and insurance, when making their decision. If you value a sporty driving experience combined with luxury features, the Audi S5 could very well be worth the investment.
What cars does the Audi S5 compete with?
The Audi S5 competes in the luxury sports coupe and convertible market with several notable vehicles. Key competitors include the BMW 4 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe, Lexus RC F, and the Infiniti Q60. These models are all known for their combination of performance, luxury, and technology, offering buyers a range of options based on their specific preferences for style, driving dynamics, and brand loyalty.
Is Audi S5 high maintenance?
Like many luxury vehicles, the Audi S5 can be considered high maintenance compared to mainstream cars. It requires premium fuel, and its parts and service can be more expensive, especially if you visit dealership service centers. However, Audi offers a comprehensive warranty and maintenance programs that can help mitigate these costs in the initial years of ownership. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues can also help in keeping long-term ownership costs in check. It's advisable for potential owners to consider the total cost of ownership, including maintenance, when evaluating the Audi S5.
About the Author
Max F. Arellano
While researching cars awhile back, I encountered a frustrating trend: the available 0-60 resources felt outdated, resembling little more than glorified Excel spreadsheets. Moreover, they seemed outright unwelcoming to mobile users, adding an extra layer of inconvenience to the process.
Drawing on my expertise in software engineering, I embarked on the journey to establish ZeroSixty, aiming to craft an authentic next-generation resource.