2004 Audi RS 6 Road Test

But it's important to recognize that not all super sedans are created equal. I had the opportunity to sample the car recently, albeit an American spec model complete with imperial gauges and royal blue Michigan license plates, and I have to say it doesn't feel as racy as the M5. Part of this has to do with

With its automatic-only transmission, the RS 6 doesn't feel as racy as its BMW competitor. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

its automatic-only transmission, compared to the M5's 6-speed manual. Audi has equipped the RS with steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters, however, giving the 5-speed Tiptronic F1 appeal.

The paddle shifters combine with a racy perforated leather-wrapped sport steering wheel that frames a beautifully detailed set of white and red on black gauges, replete with an RS 6 badge in the middle of the tachometer.

The Recaro-made RS 6 embossed front seats are as supportive as any in the midsize premium class. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

Audi embosses the RS 6 moniker in the back of the leather-covered Recaro front seats, which also feature contrasting piping around their extremities for a bit of old-world charm. But the piping is the only thing old-world about this car's seats, as supportive as any in the midsize premium class. Traditional natural-colored wood has been dispensed with too, for a unique brown and gray-toned grain more fitting the car's sporting objective.

The RS 6 has been subtly updated on the outside too, and with subtle in mind I'm glad Audi didn't go overboard trying to separate this go-fast model from its more responsible brethren. Rather than adding deep skirts to the lower bodywork, the RS 6 features a completely redesigned lower fascia incorporating three large intakes designed to match the grille opening above. Circular fog lamps complete the look. Skirts run down each rocker panel, giving the car a more planted appearance that works well with the 18-inch 9-spoke alloy rims on low-profile P255/40ZR18 rubber. In back the fascia looks more like a rear diffuser, featuring three panels of the same black mesh plastic design that makes up the grille in front. Each outside "opening," they're not actually functional, sport a fat chrome-tipped oval exhaust pipe. Very nice! A small decklid spoiler finished off the rear end design.