The Excursion of a Lifetime: The ABT RS5-R Sportback Journey to the Mediterranean
As the summer sun blazes down, we embark on a unique trip to the Mediterranean Sea, engaging with the 2019 ABT RS5-R Sportback. A sense of adventure greets us as we set our sights on the Marina di Varazze. Our journey, however, is not solely to experience the sunny Italian coast but to rendezvous with the maiden ABT-powered boat, a collaboration between Italian motorboat builder, Sacs Marine, and the renowned vehicle tuner. While the sea offers its own alluring appeal, our interest lies in the highly anticipated four-wheeled beauty: the ABT RS5-R Sportback.
Unveiling a Limited Edition Beast
Offering more than just a ride, the ABT RS5-R Sportback is limited to only 50 editions worldwide, making it a rare gem among vehicles. This five-door automobile gives the impression of an ideal travel companion, boasting a spacious interior, and of course, raw power. It stands tall with a power output of 530 hp/390 kW, exhibiting a marked increase of 80 hp/59 kW when compared to the standard model.
Driving Through the Alps
As we take on the often challenging, rain-soaked Alpine passes, it's the four-wheel transmission and ABT coilover suspension coupled with sport anti-roll bar that prove to be a godsend. On reaching the San Bernardino Pass, the car's 680 Nm of torque allows us to ascend effortlessly to the peak at 2,067 metres. Even an incline of ten percent is handled with the poise of a mountain goat. As we transition from Switzerland to Italy, the deep baritone of the ABT exhaust system bids goodbye to one beautiful landscape and welcomes another.
Encounter with the Italian Riviera
The remainder of our journey navigates along the Mediterranean coastline until the final destination is within sight. The luxurious STRIDER 11 ABT SPORT MASTER, moored peacefully at the Marina di Varazze, is an incredible sight, promising an exhilarating maritime experience.
RS5-R’s Marine Sibling: The STRIDER 11 ABT SPORT MASTER
This imposing eleven-meter long vessel springs to life as we throttle forward, the two 400 hp (294 kW) ABT V8 TDI engines beneath the sun deck awakened. The vessel's acceleration is incredibly linear and robust, making its five-tonne weight feel feather-light. However, what's truly remarkable is the sound emanating from the engines - it's not what you'd expect from a diesel. Thanks to the ABT Sound Control System, the boat hums the same melody as the RS5-R, making the journey through the waves an echo of our road trip.
Summertime Dreams Come Alive
And there we are, cruising the waves, the purr of the engines filling the air, as we hum, "Summertime, and the livin' is easy..." The combined experience of the ABT RS5-R Sportback's impressive drive and the STRIDER 11 ABT SPORT MASTER's maritime prowess made our journey not just a trip but an unforgettable summer adventure.
