Before the B7 Audi RS4 hit American shores in 2007, Car and Driver magazine went to German to test a pre-production car against its closest rivals- the Mercedes Benz C55 and BMW E46 M3, on the roads they were designed for. Although each vehicle had pluses and minuses, and they all go about driving enjoyment in different ways, the RS4 came out on top of the comparison. The C55 was determined to be a more accessible car to use every day thanks to the 5-speed automatic gearbox, and while the E46 M3 was lauded for its nimbler chassis and “race-car personality”, the RS4 beat them both by combining the smooth, revvy V8, with an expertly tuned chassis, that was comfortable and civilized enough to drive every day. These tests are always subjective when a magazine isn't running the numbers to back up its claims, but the fact is, the RS4 truly does represent a special mixture of performance and usability and is a perfect 4-door sports car for any enthusiast who enjoys an engaging driving experience.

This 2008 Audi RS4 is finished in a unique shade of Imola Yellow- of which it is estimated less than 60 were sold in the United States. Showing a mere 51,270 miles on the odometer, this RS4 is in outstanding condition throughout and could be mistaken for a car with closer to 15,000 miles on it. The RS4 is immediately recognizable by its swollen fender flares and unique front and rear bumper treatment which, when combined, gives the car a uniquely aggressive appearance without being over the top. On this car, the wide 7-spoke wheels are finished in a shade of dark gray that provides a nice contrast against the bright yellow paint.

On the inside, the RS4 is fitted with black leather on the seats, steering wheel, and door cards, and is accented by carbon fiber trim on the dash and face of the center console. One item that Car and Driver note in their first road test are that the European RS4 they drove was fitted with a set of heavily bolstered, hardback seats- which we never got in the US. Although these seats looked great in the car, the Recaros that are fitted to the American RS4s are far superior for use every day and are both exceptionally comfortable and provide loads of support in the corners.

Sitting under the hood of the Audi RS4 is a highly tuned 4.2 liter V8 that shares many components with the engine found in the R8. When new, this engine was applauded for its linear nature and ability to happily drive around town at low revs all day, but when the opportunity presents itself, will pull from low RPM all the way to its 8,250 rpm redline without any fuss. This engine is connected to a 6-speed manual gearbox that sends power to all four wheels through Audi's famous Quattro all wheel drive system, giving it serious all-weather capabilities not shared by its rivals.

One thing that differentiates the RS4 from all of its contemporaries is the stunningly low production numbers. Only sold here in 2007 and 2008, just over 1,700 Sedans were built and in 2008, the total production is pegged at 355 cars. This alone makes these cars quite unique and when you pair that with a rare color combination and limited use over the years, this RS4 is going to be a difficult car to replicate.