Can't comment on the V8, but I have recently purchased a V6 S5 Convertible. This is my second Audi, I had a number of BMW's prior to that (2 x E36's E46's and a Z4).
I'm really pleased with the S5. It is a really capable, solid feeling car. It is very quick, has endless grip and feels very refined. The interior quality is excellent; in my opinion much better than the equivalent 3 series.
I absolutely love the A5/S5 styling, they have great defined lines that really stand out when you see them in the flesh.
[TW]Fox;29303041 said:
You are quite right; the S5 isn't an M3 equivalent - that's the job of the RS models. I suspect the majority of people looking at S5's understand this and can see past the "flash" sounding badge!
I have to disagree with the fact you say it's hard to justify the cost difference between the S5 and a 335i, that's for the buyer to decide depending on what they want and what they are looking for.
I am a fan of BMW's, and love the way they drive - especially the steering feel. I was considering purchasing a 335i as an alternative the S5 I eventually bought. The price difference wasn't huge (looking at models with less than 60,000 miles), though generally the S5's were more expensive
My previous A4 and current S5 lack the steering feel and feel somewhat clinical and less involving than the BMW's I have driven. However despite this I still opted for an S5 over the 335i.
The reason I did so is because I love the styling of the A5/S5 - in my opinion it is a much better looking car. Although the 3 series interior is a very nice place to be; I feel the Audi has a much better quality cabin and I love Audi’s super sport seats. Although the S5 lacks the feel available in other marques, it has amazing lateral grip and useable power thanks to Quattro. It is a very nice feeling to be able to use the power almost all the time. I also feel the A5 has a slightly less crashy ride than the 3 series – very important if you find yourself driving in speed bump obsessed London.
These things combined make for a very solid driving experience; different to the 3 series, but solid nonetheless. The above reasons combined made the extra cost on the 335i money well spent as far as I’m concerned. In fact if I’m honest I’d have probably spent the extra just for the styling alone, but that’s just me. I certainly wouldn't knock anyone for prefering a 335i - it's still a great car...
![[TW]Fox](/data/man-of-honor/2009.png){kind=avatar}