Reflecting on the Trailblazing 1996 Audi RS 2 Avant
The 1996 Audi RS 2 Avant represents an era when two car giants, Audi and Porsche, fused their expertise to redefine the auto landscape. This versatile estate car took both high performance and family-friendly practicality, two seemingly incompatible categories, and seamlessly merged them into one bold, exciting vehicle.
A Game-changing Powerhouse
The RS 2 Avant, with its heart borrowed from the iconic 'Ur quattro', showcased a remarkable blend of power and reliability. Nestled under its hood was the same full-throttle 2.2-litre five-cylinder engine which characterized the 80 Avant S2, featuring a displacement of 2,226cc. The original power output of 230PS was not enough for this beast, so Porsche stepped in, supercharging it to a more menacing 315PS at 6500rpm. The torque figures also stood out, reaching 409Nm at 3000rpm, ensuring a spirited drive even at lower revs.
What's even more astonishing is the car's ability to hit 0-62mph in just 5.4 seconds, with a top speed of 163mph. This was impressive by 1996 standards and even today, the numbers hold their own. Such a performance powerhouse it was that the RS 2 Avant outpaced even a Mclaren F1 when it came to reaching 30mph.
Advanced Dynamics and Handling
Power alone does not make a great performance car; it's the way that power is harnessed and managed that sets it apart. The RS 2 Avant boasted an exceptional chassis, meticulously tweaked and fine-tuned by Porsche. Re-engineered dampers and anti-roll bars contributed to enhanced stability and reduced body roll. To complement this, the RS 2 Avant inherited high-performance four-piston ventilated disc brakes from Porsche's 968 Club Sport model, along with 17-inch Cup wheels from the 911 Carrera.
Transmission-wise, a slick six-speed manual box was mated to the potent engine, allowing drivers to fully exploit the car's performance. The Torsen-based quattro all-wheel-drive system, a signature of the Audi brand, provided exceptional grip and control, making it capable in diverse driving conditions. Additionally, the model was equipped with an electrically locking rear differential that could be manually activated, enhancing its dynamic capability.
An Iconic Style Statement
The RS 2 Avant was not only a powerhouse but also a style icon. Porsche's imprint could be traced in every curve and line of the car, from the bumpers and lights to the door mirrors. The RS 2 Avant was dressed in the standout 'Nogaro Blue' color, also known as 'RS Blue', adding a distinctive flair to its athletic character. This color, first introduced on the RS 2 Avant showcar at the 1993 Frankfurt Show, has since become a recurring theme in Audi's RS series.
The Legacy of the Audi RS 2 Avant
It's not often that a car comes along and blurs the lines between established categories as the 1996 Audi RS 2 Avant did. It was a perfect blend of blistering performance and family-friendly practicality, showing the world that a family estate car doesn't need to be dull. The legacy of the Audi RS 2 Avant has helped to shape the modern automotive landscape and continues to inspire car enthusiasts and manufacturers alike.
-Ed
1996 Audi RS 2 Avant
