Audi RS7 Sportback vs BMW M6 Gran Coupe
Today I want to talk about a pair of fine German cars, the BMW M6 Gran Coupe and the Audi RS7 Sportback, and attempt to figure out which is better. Both fill a certain niche, designed for those who want a low-slung sporty coupe that can still carry four people in comfort. The BMW M6 has been around for far longer, with the first models being produced in 1983, versus the RS7, which began production in 2013, but has that been long enough to iron out the kinks?
On the power front, the cars are fairly evenly matched: the BMW M6 Gran Coupe comes equipped with a rorty 4.4 liter V8 which outputs 560 horsepower, with the Audi just inching ahead with 596 horsepower from a 4 liter V8. As you may expect, these engines lend themselves to gratuitous displays of speed. The BMW M6 can hit 60 in 3.7 seconds, with the Audi beating it to the punch by half a second. The Audi also has a clear lead in the top speed stakes, maxing out at 190 mph, compared to the Beemer’s limited top speed of 155 mph. The Audi also features the famed Quattro all-wheel drive, with the BMW opting for rear-wheel drive only. On paper then, the Audi is one-up already in the power department, but figures only show one half of the story. What are they like to actually drive, and what are they like to ride in?
The Gran Coupe, the second most expensive BMW you can buy, drives as well as you would expect. The traction control is grippy, keeping you on the road in the most trying circumstances, and the car’s balance is superb, even with the huge engine’s effects on its center of gravity. If you want to come to a stop, the car is equipped with ceramic brakes that do the business without breaking a sweat. By comparison, the Audi drives brilliantly for the most part, but is also plagued by a slightly temperamental transmission. When left to its own devices, it can occasionally leave you wanting, stubbornly remaining in the gear its decided you need, rather than the one you actually do. Aside from that, the Audi is a great drive, with beautiful throttle response, and precise, if slightly lackluster, steering. It’s a win from the BMW in this category: despite the Audi’s best efforts, there are enough minor imperfections that it can feel slightly under-polished.
BMW M6 For Sale | Audi RS7 For Sale
On the ride front, the Audi is extremely comfortable, though you can expect to feel a fair amount of the road through the seat, thanks to its low coupe posture. The BMW M6 Gran Coupe is done out in rich faux suede and leather, giving the cabin the air of a first-class flight, but it is fairly cramped, and anyone of larger stature may find themselves getting a little claustrophobic. It’s length can also make it a little problematic for certain situations such as parking, but this is an issue on the Audi too. If you want to get it out on the track however, it will not let you down, with its sharp cornering abilities giving you unheard of agility.
You couldn’t fit a knife between these two cars on most grounds. The real, ultimate answer to which is better will probably depend on your needs. If you want a car that’s ready, willing and able to ferry you around a city or down an interstate in relative comfort, while giving you catlike agility on a track, then the BMW is the one you want. If, however, you want straight-line power, and a superb ride, the Audi will win every time. Ladies and gentlemen, choose your weapons: whichever you go for, you’ll have a blast.
