In January 2011, BMW will unveil the 1 Series M Coupe at the Detroit Auto Show. The 340 horsepower entry-level M is shaping up to be a car built for the pure enthusiasts and drivers looking to experience once again the “Ultimate Driving Machine”.
With its manual six-speed gearbox, rear-wheel drive and M3 suspension, the 1 Series M Coupe represents the most dynamic vehicle in the premium compact class.
But today, Ingolstadt-based Audi releases more details around their RS3 model, along with full photos.
Similar to the BMW inline six-cylinder and rear wheel drive core values, Audi bets on their main selling point: turbocharged five-cylinder engines and the famous quattro system.
RS3 Sportback is powered by a 2.5 liters engine producing 340hp (250kW) and 450Nm (331lb-ft) of torque. Power is transmitted to the road via a seven-speed S tronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive. While the 1M is rumored to redline at around 6,500 rpm, the RS3 is able to rev up to 6,800 rpm.
Like all Audi gasoline turbos, the 2.5 TFSI combines turbocharging technology with FSI direct injection.
The RS3 sprints to 100km/h (62mph) in 4.6 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h (155mph). The compact car weighs in at only 1,575 kilograms (3,472 pounds). On the other hand, the 1M is rumored to run to 62 mph in 4.5-4.6 seconds and weigh in at around 1,500 kilograms.
On the outside, the RS3 stays true to the Audi design, lots of LEDs, anthracite single-frame grill with diamond-patterned styling and exterior-mirror casings in mate aluminum paint.
Similar to the 1 Series M Coupe, Audi RS3 sits on 225 and 235 mm tires wrapped around 19 inch wheels. In addition, the RS3 sits 25 millimeters lower, and has of course also has a larger braking system.
The Audi RS3 will be built at the Hungarian Győr plant run off and will cost 49 900 € in Germany. The BMW 1 Series M Coupe will most likely be placed in the same pricing range.
Spring 2011 comes, we should be seeing plenty of reviews of the two super sporty compact cars.
