2006 Audi RS 4 vs 2006 Cadillac CTS-v

Cadillac's rambunctious CTS-v comes to this contest with a new engine. For 2006, the previous 5.7-liter Corvette Z06-based motor has given way to a 6.0-liter LS2 V-8, shared with the standard Corvette and Pontiac GTO. In spite of the small displacement increase, horsepower remains at 400. Its torque rating also is unchanged at 395 pound-feet, although it peaks 400 rpm lower (at 4400 revs) than before. The previously optional power moonroof is now standard.

While the LS2 doesn't pack all the cams, valves, and injection trickery the Audi's highwinding V-8 does, it gets the job done with extra cubic inches and is a sophisticated piece for an overhead-valve engine. premium unleaded fuel is recommended but not required, as it is on the RS 4. The much reviled skip-shift feature bestowed upon the CTS-v's six-speed manual transmission allows it to avoid a guz tax, which Audi couldn't escape to the tune of $2100.

GM's performance division, although not having the budget to buy all the whizbang technology Audi engineered into the RS 4, has done a credible job of upping the standard CTS's performance, luxury, and exclusivity quotients, too. The mesh grille, 18-inch alloys, aggressive fascias, and dual exhausts signal the mission. Cadillac also went with the leather-and-aluma-look inside; love that grippy suedelike material on the seat center cushions. Large Brembo brakes replace the standard binders, the suspension is given a full retune, and as with the RS 4, no automatic transmission need apply.

Cadillac touts the CTS-v as a member of its Under Five Seconds to 60 club, and so it was at 4.9. Audi says the RS 4 does the job in 4.8 seconds. Wrong - try 4.5! The Caddy's clutch takeup is less linear than the Audi's, and the RS 4's shifter is more precise with shorter throws; examples of where the difference in price and sophistication levels are apparent. The Audi's performance advantage held through the quarter mile, with a 13-second-flat run compared with the CTS-v's still impressive 13.4. The Caddy's midrange is strong, just nipping the Audi in 45-to-65-mph passing, 2.0 seconds to 2.1.

How an enthusiast car sounds is allimportant. The cadillac has the heart of a Corvette. it speaks in appropriately hushed yet muscular tones, although it has a wonderful intake roar under heavy throttle load. Stand by the side of the road when the RS 4 goes by with the S button activated, and it also sounds like a 1967 Corvette.