The Bahrain International Circuit has just become an even sportier and pulse raising place for high intensity motoring in the Middle East. Chosen as the launch location for the new Audi S models, the circuit will host Audi enthusiasts, customers, VIPs and media from the whole Middle East region for a three week driving event.
Different driving exercises will not only allow participants to reinforce their driving skills with professional instructors but also experience the new Audi S4 and S4 Cabriolet, the Audi S6 and the top of the line sports version of the A8 - the Audi S8.
But what exactly is the difference between an Audi A8 and an S8 or an Audi A4 and an S4? A whole load of extra driving excitement, or to put it in another way: even more "Vorsprung durch Technik" (Advancement through Technology). High revs, powerful performance and a large engine capacity guarantee unlimited driving enjoyment and catapult each Audi S model from 0-60 mph in less than 6 seconds. All Audi S models sport the latest generation of the legendary quattro permanent four-wheel drive as a standard. The result of the power transfer to all four wheels through an asymmetric/dynamic torque split: a high degree of cornering ability and driving enjoyment. The aluminium S sports suspension with lowered body, and special spring and damper settings make for a comfortable and at the same time resolutely sporty ride.
An Audi S model is not merely the fusion of form and function; it is also the full embodiment of sporting temperament. A wealth of refined details demonstrate the power of its outward appearance: the coupe-like curved roof line makes a powerful, superior appearance combined with the striking single-frame grill, aerodynamic design and large air intakes, powerful shoulders, cast aluminium wheels and aluminium exterior mirrors, the spoiler integrated into the trunk lid and the sparkling chrome of the dual-branch twin tailpipes. The S emblem on the radiator grill is more than just a badge: it's a philosophy.
How did it all begin? In 1980, Audi invented quattro permanent-four wheel drive, thereby signaling a revolution in rally sport. This revolution reached its peak in 1985 in the Audi Sport quattro S1 - the forefather of all Audi S models. As one of the most powerful world championship rally cars of all times, it inspired people not just because of its 600 horsepower but also thanks to its two successive wins in the legendary Pikes Peak mountain race in Colorado. 224 of its road-going version, the Sport quattro with Kevlar body and an output of over 300 bhp, were built.
Today, its "S" symbolizes those victories of yesteryear in each new Audi S model. Starting in 1990, S technology that had been successfully tested on the racetrack made its debut on the road: in the guise of the Audi Coupe S2 - the designated successor to the "Ur-quattro" (original quattro). In characteristic Audi style, the S2 was equipped with permanent four-wheel drive. It blended sportiness with refinement, the net effect of which was more than the sum total of these character traits. Inspired by the success of the S2, a self-contained family of S models grew over the years, from the S3 to the S4 and the S6, all the way up to the S8. Since then, a total of around 150,000 S models in the various model series have been produced.
-Ends-
About Audi
Audi is a car manufacturer rich in tradition. The four rings symbolise the fusion of Audi, DKW, Horch and Wanderer in 1932. Today, Audi is one of the three big German automotive manufacturers in the premium segment. AUDI AG employs more than 50,000 people and delivered around 829,100 Audi vehicles to customers in 2005.
As a global developer and manufacturer of high-quality cars and engines, Audi has major production sites in Germany, Hungary, Brazil and China. Within the Volkswagen Group, Audi is responsible for the sporty brand group which also includes the SEAT and Lamborghini brands.
The current model range comprises the A3, A3 Sportback, A4 Saloon and Cabriolet, S4 Saloon, and Cabriolet, RS 4 Saloon and Cabriolet, A6 and S6, TT Coupe and Roadster, the A8, S8 and the Q7.
For more information:
Audi Middle East Communication
Karin Haferkorn,
Tel. +971 42045 888,
Fax: +971 4 2045 891
email: karin.haferkorn@audi.avme.ae
Perspective Public Relations
Roger Fennings,
Tel: +971 4 367 1126,
Mob: +971 50 478 9484,
Fax: +971 4 368 6892
email: roger@perspectivepr-me.com
Nick Wheywell,
Tel: +971 4 361 2841,
Mob: +971 50 795 3493,
Fax: +971 4 368 6892
email: nick@perspectivepr-me.com
© Press Release 2006
