The Audi RS6 Avant and Mercedes-AMG E63 S are two of the fastest family cars on the market.
Both are powered by 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8s. In the RS6 Avant this engine is paired to a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, for a total output of 591 hp and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque. This power is sent through all four wheels courtesy of an eight-speed automatic transmission from ZF. By comparison, the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 of the E63 S is slightly more powerful with 603 hp and 626 lb-ft (850 Nm). It too is all wheel drive.
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Admittedly, this isn’t a perfect apples-to-apples comparison as the E63 S tested was a sedan, which weighs roughly 240 lbs (110 kg) less than the Estate variant. Still, both cars are incredibly quick and to see just which of the two has the advantage, Car Buyers Guide in South Africa lined them up for a drag race.
Off the line, the duo both launch with exceptional poise but it is the Audi that carves out a slight lead as the Mercedes struggles to put all of its power to the ground. It initially seems as though the RS6 will walk away victorious but as the speeds start to build, the extra horsepower and torque of the E63 S allows it to claw its way back and ultimately claim the victory.