ABT Sportsline has introduced the RS6 and RS7 Legacy Edition models, boasting an impressive power upgrade to 986 horsepower (1,000 metric hp) and 848 pound-feet (1,150 Newton-meters) of torque. This performance package comes at a price of $218,999 (205,000 euros), which includes installation, but customers are required to provide their own vehicles for the modifications.
To unleash the full power of these vehicles, they need to run on 102-octane fuel. However, on 98-octane gasoline, the output decreases slightly to 927 hp (940 metric hp) and 774 lb-ft (1,050 Nm) of torque.
ABT Sportsline’s engine overhaul includes the addition of forged pistons, reinforced connecting rods, and upgraded piston pins. The package also features a carbon-fiber intake system with revised turbos that have enlarged air intakes. Additional oil coolers and optimized intercoolers are part of the upgrade.
One significant enhancement is the inclusion of an indirect water/ethanol-injection (IWI) system, controlled electronically. “This allows more charge air or oxygen to be supplied for the combustion of the fuel, resulting in permanently higher performance,” explained Thomas Biermaier, Managing Director of ABT Sportsline.
The IWI system is equipped with a 3.963-gallon (15-liter) tank, conveniently located in the rear cargo area, with the filler next to the gas cap. ABT estimates that drivers can cover 1,864 miles (3,000 kilometers) between refills. The myABT app provides real-time information on the fluid level, and owners can order more IWI fluid directly from ABT.
Activating the IWI system is straightforward, requiring the driver to place the RS6 or RS7 in RS drive mode and hold down the button for one second, at which point the additional power becomes available.
For the 2024 model year, Audi introduced the RS6 Avant Performance and RS7 Performance models to the United States. Both are equipped with a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 621 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. They can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 3.3 seconds, with a standard top speed of 155 mph. The limited-run Bronze Edition can reach 174 mph. The Performance models distinguish themselves from their predecessors with larger turbos, reduced sound deadening, a lighter mechanical self-locking center differential, and upgraded transmission control software. Prices start at $126,895 for the wagon and $128,895 for the sedan.
Abt calls them the Legacy Edition. An indirect water/ethanol injection system is among the upgrades.
