Audi marks 50 years of five-cylinder engines with a limited-edition RS 3 Competition

Audi is celebrating half a century of its iconic five-cylinder engine with a special edition: the RS 3 competition limited. Just 750 examples will be built worldwide, offered in both Sportback and Sedan body styles.

The five-cylinder story began in 1976 with the Audi 100, but reached cult status through the original Sport quattro rally cars of the 1980s. Today's 2.5-liter turbocharged unit produces 400 hp and 500 Nm, allowing the RS 3 to reach 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 290 km/h.

What sets the competition limited apart is its focus on driving engagement. An adjustable coilover suspension with three-way damping and a stiffer rear stabilizer sharpens handling, while reduced sound insulation and an RS sports exhaust amplify that unmistakable five-cylinder warble-the result of its distinctive 1-2-4-5-3 firing order.

Visually, the edition gains carbon fiber elements including front canards, mirror caps, and a rear spoiler. A unique option is Malachite green metallic, a direct nod to the Sport quattro's heritage. Inside, Neodymium gold accents and Dinamica microfiber contrast with black leather, while the digital instrument cluster adopts white dials reminiscent of the 1994 RS2 Avant.

The limited run is priced from €108,365 in Germany, with deliveries beginning mid-2026. Given the RS 3's expected phase-out in 2027, this may be the final chance to own a new Audi with the five-cylinder that has defined the brand for five decades.