Did you know that Abt, the racing firm joined at the hip to the VW Group lineup, started out as a family-run blacksmith shop back in 1896? Neither did we, but it means the company will be celebrating its 125th birthday next year, albeit with a limited-run model that doesn't exactly chime with those humble beginnings. Abt has tuned Audi’s RSQ8 to new heights, so its twin-turbo V8 powerplant produces 740hp and 679lb ft of torque. It is capable of 196mph.
To achieve those frankly ridiculous numbers, the RSQ8-R receives a new intercooler and Abt’s in-house ECU. And that’s it. To put this all into perspective, the enhanced 4.0-litre has more power than the anticipated output for the Panamera S E-Hybrid, which gets an electric motor to bolster its V8. Yet Abt puts its seal of approval on the RSQ8-R with the usual warranty of two years or 60,000 miles, so it probably won't go pop on the first flat-out run.
You can, of course, option in extras, like a stainless-steel exhaust system with four 102mm tailpipes to up the volume. That 196mph top speed is an option, too, with the car’s terminal velocity remaining limited if you don’t tick the box. But essentially you get a 2.3-tonne brute capable of hitting 62mph in 3.4 seconds with what only two major alterations. Which, even knowing how easily Abt extracts more power from standard, still feels a bit bonkers.
The RSQ8-R gets aesthetic changes to signify its status, including a front splitter, skirts and a rear spoiler all made from carbon. A bigger diffuser is made from the stuff, too, while 23-inch, lightweight rims add more presence. Inside, you get Abt’s steering wheel, its start-stop-switch-cap and also the brand’s gear knob cover. The firm adds new materials to the centre console and retrims the seats and armrest, while the door sills display "1 of 125" and RSQ8-R lettering can be found on several surfaces. There’s no forgetting what car you’re in, put it that way.
It's hardly one for the connoisseur, then - but it's worth reiterating that the RSQ8 is no slouch in the driving department (as we discovered a few weeks ago) and a 740hp super-SUV that’s finished in bright green does feel like an appropriately Abt thing to do for a birthday. Expect all 125 to be sold in quick succession, if they haven’t already
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