MODEL HISTORY

The RS2 was built as a collaboration between Audi AG and Porsche and was the first of Audi’s legendary “RS” vehicles. The RS2 used the most powerful and well developed inline 5 cylinder turbo charged engine that had powered so many Quattro over the past 15 years. It firmly established Audi as a producer of practical high performance vehicles something that it excels at today.

Built only in estate form, just 180 RHD models were produced by Audi then assembled by Porsche at their Rossle-Bau plant in Zuffenhausen, Germany famous for the assembly of the Mercedes-Benz 500E and Porsche 959.

Like most of the car the engine was based on a a unit that Audi already produced however Porsche modified the engine till it produced 311bhp at 6,500. Coupled with the Quattro drive system the RS2 became a formidable weapon and could accelerate from 0-100Kph in 4.8 seconds. In an Autocar road test of the time it was timed from 0-30mph in less than 1.5seconds faster than a McLaren F1 and also a Formula one car of the time!

Along with the exceptional engine performance came Porsche designed braking and suspension systems replacing the standard Audi 80 equipment. A sports three spoke steering wheel and Recaro bucket seats available in full leather or a leather/suede combination.

Equipment

Polar Silver, Air Conditioning, Electric Recaro seats, Carbon inlays, Ellipsoidal headlamps and washer system, Immobiliser, Auto check system, Voltmeter, Oil pressure gauge, Oil temperature gauge, Diff lock, Porsche Brembo braking system, Porsche Cup I wheels, ABS, Rear Spoiler Delete, Sunroof

EXTERIOR

Porsche CEO Ferdinand Piech was to realise his idea for a fast estate with this skunkworks project – the RS2. There is no mistaking the Porsche influence with this in-house project known internally as ‘P1’; mirrors, side lights, wheels and brakes all migrating from the neighbours parts inventory.

The Polar Silver bodywork retains a rich, deep lustre that sparkles beautifully in natural light; an exceptionally popular period colour that appears as a layered almost two-tone effect depending upon light conditions. Trims, grilles and surrounds have aged well whilst lights and lenses remain moisture free.

INTERIOR

The cabin is unapologetically 90’s; vertical vents, rectangular head rests and white dials are pure retro fever. The Recaro seats of the period hug the midriff noticeably well and present impeccably, without noticeable bolster wear and still exhibiting an almost matte effect. The carbon inlays were quite ahead of their time and show well without lacquer peel or distortion.

Carpets and mats are excellent throughout whilst the boot space and luggage protector also present tidily.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

Having been well serviced throughout its life the 5 cylinder engine is incredibly smooth and delivers its mighty power courtesy of a KKK turbocharger that was 30 per cent larger than that of the Audi S2.

The gearbox feels tight and precise and its as easy to drive around town as it is on the open road. The manual lock for the rear diff works smoothly; only for the most challenging conditions at low speed.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES

The Porsche Cup I wheels present unmarked wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sports; all with plenty of tread.

The Brembo big brake kit is evenly matched to the performance available, pulling the car up strongly with a minimum of fuss.

HISTORY FILE

First sold by Links of Macclesfield on the 18th May, 1995, this mega Avant has enjoyed a thorough service routine either side of careful storage.

There are 12 stamps in the original service book, with the majority covering the first 60k miles up until 2001, supplemented by a paper trail in the history folder that supports the car’s service and parts requirements from the last 20 years.

Tech 9 have looked after the car since 2023 and have attended to standard service requirements alongside work to the power steering, AC system and rear diff crossmember.

The history file, inclusive of all original literature and even dealer brochures, reads very well and will assure any prospect that the car has led a pampered life. Spare keys, MOT certificates and vehicle spec sheet are also present in the folder.