The Audi S-badge was supposed to be the answer to the BMW M-badge...well...uh...in a word, NO. The S5 would flat get dusted and embarrassed by any of the BMW M's I've owned and the F-type Jag would laugh aloud. The S5 feels more luxurious and smooth. More like 330/430 in performance. Sluggish to rev up and acts like you are asking a lot to get up and run. Not ready for a hot-lap on the track like the F-Type that feels like it's jitterey and hopped up on espresso and biting it's nails off to go everytime you start it. The S5 really feels like it just wants to stroll over to the Country Club and look pretty. That's OK but not for the price. There is never enough trunk space in cabriolets for a golf bag, couple tennis rackets fit fine. Handling is very nice and crisp and the steering has a very connected tight feel that almost does what you think, very BMW-esque. The HVAC is not "high volume" and and takes 15 minutes to cool off at 90F+. Not a problem in Munich but definitely a problem in SC. But of course it's a cabriolet, not an A8. Ride is very quiet with almost no noise. Very tied down cabin. The Audi technology and Volkswagen mechanics should also be FAR MORE reliable than my BMW and definitely my Jaguar who all began their slow and steady decline to the grave around that magical 100k and 60k milestones respectively. That said, the BMW technology is just more current. NONE of the Audi Cabriolets have voice command option. Not even the R8!!! Apparently they couldn't figure out where to place the microphone...really?? FAILURE. My $30k Toyota Truck has voice command AND a touch Screen?! The Audi also lack front parking sensors. I guess they figured you can see the front? The interior of the Audi feels more like an LA hillside California ranch with unobstructed minimalist details that are all kind of understated but very modern. I did Pay $25-30k less for my S5 than an M4 and maybe even a little less than a 435 Cabriolet. Maybe that's the lesson here. I just hope I can say the Audi doesn't lose bladder control and leak oil all over my garage and try to Break My Wallet (BMW?) after the warranty runs out. Overall, the BMW is faster and sharper with better technology and the F-type is just hot wet dripping sexy. The only part of the S5 I feel might be a little sexy is the gauge cluster and the grimmacing LED and Xenon headlights. See you around the track...sorry, I meant club.
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