What: RS 4 Sport
Model Family: RS 4
Market / Zone: UK
Production Location: Two-stage, Ingolstadt + Neckarsulm by quattro GmbH, with engine production by Cosworth in Wellingborough, England
Year: 2001
Number Produced: unknown
Model / Generation Code(s): Type 8D
Chassis / Matrix: B5, PL45
Engine: 2.7T V6 Biturbo (ASJ) with tuning by Cosworth
Horsepower: 381 hp
Peak Torque: 440 Nm
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
Acceleration (0-100 km / 62 mph: 4.9 seconds
WHEEL / TIRE DETAILS
Wheel Size(s): 8.5Jx18 summer / 7.5Jx18 winter
Tire Size(s): 255/35 ZR18 summer / 225/40 R18 winter
Bolt Pattern: 5×112
Offset: ET24
SEE ALSO
ooooIYKYK Retrospective: 2001 Audi RS 4 Sport (B5)
Audi RS 4 Sport – EU 🇪🇺 (B5, 2001)
Audi RS 4 edition 25 Years – EU 🇪🇺 (B9.5, 2024)
SUMMARY
The Audi RS 4 Sport (Type 8D) was a limited, factory-sanctioned high-performance variant of the first-generation Audi RS 4 Avant, produced by Audi and developed by quattro GmbH. Offered as a set of optional performance components installed prior to delivery, the RS 4 Sport represented the most uncompromising specification of the B5-series RS 4 and was aimed at customers seeking maximum track-oriented capability without sacrificing OEM build quality. Though not a separate model line, the RS 4 Sport package created one of the most focused road-legal variants of Audi’s early Rennsport (RS) portfolio.
BACKGROUND & DEVELOPMENT
The standard RS 4 Avant, introduced in 1999, had already established itself as one of the fastest mid-range performance estates of its era. It combined a twin-turbocharged 2.7-litre V6 developed jointly with Cosworth, a widened body derived from the S4, and Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system. Despite its performance credentials, Audi’s own internal requirements for everyday usability and ride comfort meant the production RS 4 involved several compromises relative to motorsport expectations.
To address demand from customers seeking a more extreme configuration, quattro GmbH created a catalogue of factory performance accessories that could be ordered and installed before delivery. When equipped with the full suite of components, the vehicle was informally referred to as the RS 4 Sport. This designation appeared in official literature and promotional material, though production figures have not been publicly disclosed.
TECHNICAL ENHANCEMENTS
The RS 4 Sport package was defined by comprehensive chassis, braking, exhaust, and interior changes aimed at enhancing high-speed stability, steering precision, and track endurance.
CHASSIS & SUSPENSION
The RS 4 Sport featured a firmer spring and damper setup, a stiffer rear anti-roll bar, and an additional 15 mm reduction in ride height beyond the already-lowered standard RS 4. The resulting lower centre of gravity provided notably sharper turn-in and flatter cornering characteristics.
However, the more aggressive stance created logistical challenges. With the reduced ground clearance, RS 4 Sport vehicles could not be loaded onto conventional car transporter ramps. Audi commissioned special transport equipment to accommodate deliveries.
BRAKING SYSTEM
For sustained high-performance driving and racetrack durability, quattro GmbH offered an 18-inch brake system with perforated (“drilled”) composite brake discs and higher-friction, track-oriented pads. These components provided improved resistance to fade at the expense of increased noise and dust during normal use.
EXHAUST SYSTEM
The optional sport exhaust system featured backpressure-optimized center and rear silencers and matte black coated tailpipes. Designed to improve flow while remaining road legal, the system delivered a more assertive exhaust note compared to the standard RS 4.
INTERIOR & ERGONOMICS
Interior enhancements emphasized driver support and tactile feedback:
- Recaro Pole Position bucket seats for optimal lateral support
- Suede (rough-side leather) covering for the steering-wheel rim and gearshift knob, improving grip during spirited driving
- Optional RS 4–embroidered floor mats with colored piping in leather or Alcantara
These modifications reinforced the RS 4 Sport’s identity as a driver-focused variant rooted in motorsport ergonomics.
TIRES
Pirelli P Zero Corsa high-performance tires were optionally available in the RS 4’s standard 18-inch sizing, further sharpening grip during track use.
MARKET POSITIONING & PRICING
The complete RS 4 Sport package added approximately €6,730 to the cost of a standard RS 4 Avant. The package was not marketed as a separate model but as a suite of factory-approved options forming a coherent performance specification under the “RS 4 Sport” designation. Given the stand-alone nature of these options, cars fitted with the entire suite were quite rare. This makes a legitimate RS 4 Sport an exceedingly rare find.
RECEPTION & LEGACY
In period, testers praised the RS 4 Sport for its markedly improved road dynamics relative to the standard car. Sport Auto converted its long-term Imola Yellow RS 4 to Sport specification even before factory endurance testing of the package had concluded (source: Audi RS: History • Models • Technology). By the end of its evaluation period, the magazine’s editorial staff reportedly competed internally for the chance to purchase the car, highlighting the variant’s desirability.
Though produced in very limited numbers and seldom seen today, the RS 4 Sport is regarded by enthusiasts as the most focused evolution of the B5 RS 4 platform. Its factory-backed performance components foreshadowed the more expansive customization and motorsport-inspired packages that quattro GmbH—and later Audi Sport GmbH—would offer in subsequent generations of RS vehicles.
Audi threw a nod to the RS 4 Sport (B5) when it launched another special-edition 2024 RS 4 (B9.5) Avant edition 25 Years limited to 250 units.
PERIOD PRICING (GERMAN MARKET)
Pricing includes 16% VAT.
| Part Description | EUR | DM |
| Sport Suspension with 15 mm lowering, sport spring and damper tuning, stiffer stabilizer on rear axle | 900.00 | 1760.25 |
| Sport Brake System drilled front and rear brake discs (per set) | 1330.00 | 2601.25 |
| Sport Brake System brake pads for front and rear axle (per set) | 500.00 | 977.92 |
| Sport Exhaust System with center and rear silencers & matte black tailpipes | 1300.00 | 2542.58 |
| Bucket Seat (each) for driver and/or passenger in leather, leather/Alcantara, or leather/“High Tech” fabric | 1500.00 | 2933.75 |
| Sport Steering Wheel and Gear Knob in onyx suede | 600 | 1173.50 |
| Floor Mats (per set) front floor mats with “RS 4” lettering, front and rear floor mats available on request with colored piping in leather or Alcantara | 450 | 880.12 |
| Sport Tires (street legal) Pirelli P Zero Corsa 255/35 ZR 18, ruther information is available from your Audi partner | Available only by direct order from Pirelli | Available only by direct order from Pirelli |
PHOTO GALLERY
