S5X

Like the guy below, my B7 s4 is getting "old" and I'm looking for something new. Unlike him though, I don't need R8 power or performance, just an upgrade. I really like the look of the new S5, and the power/handling (according to reviews) of the M3. M3 however, is a little too much of a poser car IMHO. Here's the question: what would be the reason not to upgrade to the S5? I drove it the other day, but couldn't toss it around the corners. I therefore could not determine whether it is a significant improvement over the s4. Any thoughts?

Kyokio

Looks great inside and out but wouldn't say its a big improvement over the S4 (performance wise). Its more of a lateral step than a step up (only my opinion) from the B7 S4.

Pricing:
S5 ~$55-58k
M3 ~$65-70k

If you can afford either, y not look into a used 997 C4S? Its pretty damn quick, and its awd.

S5X

The M3 already is a little too flashy with the buldge in the hood. Thanks for the input!

DrGP

Only reason to go to the M3 is for higher performance, free maintenance and probably better finance/lease rates. Otherwise the RS4 is also a performance upgrade. M3s WILL be in short supply initially. That way the dealers can make a greater initial profit.

FastMarkA

Zactly agree with all of this. The S5 was good to drive, but marketing had me expecting more.

Stevelev

S5 for real world driving (ie: snow and slippery conditions)

TwentyValveB5+S4

I think the S5 is infinitely better looking inside and out, and I'd personally take the S5 over the M3 or the 335i. I agree the S5 is a little soft, as it's meant as a GT car. I'm sure a set of Ohlins would fix that though.

I have yet to read anything negative about the 335i's performance, though. Plus, there's far more headroom for power mods.

Audi S5 TC

With Audi Drive Select (ADS) system, which will be a together only option with Audi Quattro Torque Vectoring (AQTV) system, the S5 should be a gigantic improvement over the B6/B7 S4 in performance based on the fact that these two options as together only options make for a significant improvement in performance on the B8 A4 versus the B6/B7 A4 in car magazine tests from the overseas automotive press.

FWIW, ADS and AQTV as together only options on all versions of the A5/S5/RS 5 coupes and (if applicable) convertibles in spring 2008 for late MY2008 or early MY2009 at the earliest and in fall 2009 for MY2010 at the latest.

Audi S5 TC

As I said before, when the Audi Drive Select (ADS) and Audi Quattro Torque Vectoring (AQTV) systems become available as together only options on all versions of the A5/S5/RS 5 worldwide in two to 20 months, this will all change if overseas road tests of the B8 A4 with these systems are any indication.

As Snoop Dogg's Huggy Bear character in the Starsky and Hutch movie (2004) would say you dig?

FastMarkA

It may be more "updated," but no difference in luxury level. Definitely no A8 on the inside.