S5 Review - loved it!

[csburdick]

Hey guys, letting you know we just finished up a review and photo shoot of the S5. Man, that car is awesome.

I'd love to hear what you think of it: http://www.automoblog.net/2008/07/14/audi-s5-review/

Here's the photo shoot, we did our best: http://www.automoblog.net/photos/album/72157606133754349/Audi-S5.html

Looking forward to hearing some feedback!

[toaster]

Decent Review, nice pics.

"But nobody wraps the sportiness and luxury together in such a tight package as Audi."

End of story.

Comparisons with the S4,S5/M3 are so tired.

Audi has quattro, BMW has RWD...never gonna change...different driving characteristics.

[csburdick]

I agree, a comparable BMW M3 Coupe is a completely different beast. While I still like the M3, it's in a completely different way. You're right that the S5/M3 comparisons are too common since their such different cars.

[greene08]

I agree... not nearly the same. I'm toiling over which one I truly want right now.

[csburdick]

Have you driven both? Quite a difference in feel. I wouldn't call the M3 a daily driver, but I suppose some people are more tolerant than me when it comes to comfort. The S5 is, however, a daily driver. But if you plan on letting loose at a track or something then the S5 might not be for you. That's a tough decision.

[greene08]

I've driven both. Originally it was the S5 vs 335i Coupe... which is still in question because, like you said, the M3 isn't really a daily driver. I plan on some rare weekend events but nothing serious so I don't need what the M3 has but wouldn't mind it either!

I would say it is more the 335i vs S5 at this point... comparing fuji apples to gala apples.

[csburdick]

335i is a good car - might be a good choice for you. I'd personally still get the S5, but that's just me.

[SupraBlur]

Lol what about the 'gotta have it now' factor. If you want an M3 or especially a 335i, there' probably one on the lot configured the way you want it, and special ordering probably will only take a few weeks. If you want an S5, you probably won't get to actually own it for over 6 months.

-Ray

[csburdick]

You're right, it might take a while but M3s are the same way. They have plenty on the lot, but according to our local BMW dealer, most of the M3s they sell are special order.

[greene08]

Either car I get will be special order and EU delivery only. I'm on the wait list for a 2009 S5 right now (should be October/November before it is ready). The 335i for 2009 isn't available to order until next month (3 month wait then) and the 2008s are done ordering.

I really like the 3-series for the handling but the S5 peers into my soul when I look at it. CRAP!

[csburdick]

I don't think you'll be disappointed either way, but to me it sounds like you're leaning towards the S5. And I agree.

[greene08]

Yeah... looks like the performance is right on with each other.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHj0zbhjLZI

My biggest thing now is do I want the road feel of the 335 or the style and grunt of the S5. I want both. I think I'll probably stick with the S5 since mine will have Audi Drive Select and hopefully that will give me the tight responsive suspension and steering feel I am looking for.

[marcus1701]

good choice...that's just one less 3 series on the road! S5's have balls.

[csburdick]

Indeed they do :)