Muscles Tussle - Part II

Our stint with the S6 sedan ended on yet another high note of the trip - a track session with the RS5 coupe. As part of the marque's premier sports lineup, the RS5 had a name to live up to. Evidently, from the predecessors bearing the moniker, 'RS' models had always been blessed with the fearsome performance with everyday practicality to match.

While the top-of-range model carries immense tarmac burning prowess, it can still lay hidden to the untrained eyes. It was deceivingly dressed in black, which gave the coupe a very subtle stance among the convoy of S sedans.

The arrival at the pit unravelled more that was in stall for us - two more models from the four-ringed marque were awaiting, namely the RS3 hatchback and a S4 sedan. Both cars were in various state of tune, ready for some track action.

Audi RS5 - Potent track machine with everyday usability 

The 4.0-litre V8 churns out 450bhp and 430Nm of torque. The power band stretches to 8,250rpm, where all of the 450 horses are dispatched. On the tracks, the RS5's power delivery is comparatively more linear than that of the tuned track cars, giving it a more predictable nature. As a result, this also enhances its everyday driveability. 

At the helm, the RS5's weighted steering results in a more intuitive and involving driving experience - a clear distinction from the potent S sedans. And while Audi cars are known for the clinical driving dynamics, the RS5 feels like it has more to offer, especially to the one at the helm. 

Audi S8 - the quintessential 'S' car 

The driving experience ended with a sweet desert - the chance to pilot the flagship S8 sedan on the return leg. The S8 had an immense presence, brought about by the larger dimensions. Like the other S sedans present, the aggressive stance was tapered with the rounded edges to give a clean, graceful silhouette.

While the S8 garners respect outwardly with its size, it brings a diminished sense of agility when piloting it. The sense of heftiness was soon overshadowed by the S8's on road performance. The segment leading 4.2 seconds feels quicker in reality.

Most noteworthy is not how fast the S8 is, but rather how the power is presented to the occupants. Even when driven spiritedly, the S8 never once felt shaken. And there is an enormous amount of torque available throughout the gear ratios, which makes any overtaking manoeuvres an effortless one. The luxury of the quarters is not compromised by the performance orientation. Instead, the cabin is well appointed, making the S8 the perfect car to drive and be driven in.

While the trio of S sedans had a similar engine at its heart, they offer a varied driving and handling experience. In short, the S8 top in our favourites, simply by giving much more of everything the others had to offer.