Cross shopping with the S5
 

Poked my head into the Audi dealer yesterday and seen a new 18' S5 Sportback with the black optic package. I wouldn't even consider the car without it, but now that it's an available option I'm considering it. I think I like the interior a bit more than the c43, but it's basically splitting hairs. Only problem is it's still so muted compared to the c43 with PE. Not only is it more quiet, there's not crackles and pops which leaves it feeling boring. I know whatever I choose I'll be happy but this is a tough decision. Anyone else recently go back and forth between the two? If so what tipped you into the benz yard?

The cars are so similar that it comes down to what you personally like more. There are a few threads here and even more over on the Audi forums.

I think Audi build quality is a bit better than MB. They are equally matched in nearly ever other metric.

The sportback has BO available? Pics?

I actually went to test drive S5 sportback yesterday. Can't say that i liked it more than my C43C, but it was a very good car (may be need a more time with it). Exhaust sound wasn't loud compared to the AMG PE, but it had crackles and pops. The only weird feeling is that the exhaust sound was coming from the engine lol, not from the back... PS i wasnt high lol. Anyway will be ordering it for my wife with an ED later this year

I came from a 2014 S5 to my current C43 Coupe. While the C43 is faster than the S5 and sounds better with the performance exhaust, I would give the Audi points for exterior styling, handling, and interior fit and finish. The only reason I didn't get another S5, is because the 2018 wasn't available when my 2014 S5 lease was expiring.


I don't dislike my C43 at all, but in my gut, I feel like the S5 was a better car. Both cars are exceptional, and you can't go wrong with either choice.

Wasn't aware the c43 was faster, I'm assuming only by .1 - .2?

The PE exhaust on the AMG I feel like is the only thing really keeping me interested. As you said the styling handling and interior are all (slightly) better in the S5 .. it's gonna most likely come down to what just feels better for me. I know I'm always gonna have a regret for the car I didn't choose. 1st world problems. :nix:

The paint quality is superior on the MB. Audi paint is soft and relatively poor.

Seating position is better in the Audi.

Getting the car wrapped in Suntek / ceramic coat so not worried too much about the paint durability. Seats are amazing in the S5, I'm upset I can't get the designo in the MB coupe only sedan. But yeah, the stitch and massage feature mmmmmm

Fair point. To be clear, My 2017 C43 is faster than a 2014 S5. Might be a different story comparing the C43 to the 2018 S5 with increased bhp.

Not that it matters, because it's negligible.

But the c43 is faster to 60 and in the quarter over the new (B9) S5/S4, only by a couple of tenths.

This would be the only way I'd get the S5, black grill, window trim, rear diffuser, wheels. Plus that gray and black color scheme is sex. ��

https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...ee431beea.jpeg

https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...b25ed938e.jpeg

I'd be very tempted to get one. Mainly because it's brand new and different.

I think, if your main concern is driving and it being a good drivers car, then you're better offer with the MB.

Otherwise, get the Audi.

Main appeal to me is a good combo of luxury and performance and they both offer it. Insanely close cars.

I do like that sportback option :bow:


But like it's been said in this thread and every other of the countless threads created on this subject: It comes down to personal preference and how you connect with the each car when you drive them.

They are both so similar in every aspect that it's about what one you see yourself loving to drive everyday. I will say that the Audi has a bit more of a boring interior (very high quality and nice to the touch) and interior options. But they make up for that with their "Virtual Cockpit" option.

I drove the old model design S4/S5 before deciding on the C43. Great car but getting a little old without a refresh and 2018 model year Audis were a long way out when I got the MB, so I decided not to wait.

I think both are great cars that you'll really enjoy. I think the C43 is a little more flashy and has a more audible exhaust sound while the S4/S5 is more muted (both in sound and appearance). I like the interior design of the MB a little better but the Audi interface is significantly ahead (Carplay/Android auto, virtual cockpit) if that's important to you.

Probably a personal choice.

C43 > S5 > 340xi > jaguar XE

Appreciate all the feedback guys. Tough decision. The black optic package won't be available for a while it seems and that's a huge deal breaker for me since it makes the S5 look way more aggressive. Gonna stick to the c43, I know it's a great car and I'll be happy every time I drive it.

Btw, what tunes are most popular for it so far?

You weren't high, that's der soundaktor. The sound wasn't the exhaust, it was a speaker under the windshield. The soundaktor was the reason why my VW GLi sounded like a sewing machine from outside, but an STi from the inside.

​​​​​​That new digital dash Audi does is perfect. I happen to love the interior layout and style for the new Audis. Also, that Nardo Grey (I think that's the color posted in the pics) is so cool. I remember when the Murcielago came out in this color and I fell in love. My dad calls it primer gray... Says silver paint should be metallic... Drives a yellow convertible.

You have a real serious dilemma. For me, (unabashedly superficial) I'd get the newer, more exclusive, more elusive Audi. That car is all sorts of sexy. You are giving up some performance, maybe, but it really is amazing how much of a difference 3 years makes in auto production. That dash, that dash, that beautiful dash with Google maps, and you can shrink the navigation and switch it for the tach or layer them over each other. Oh and the cross stiched Recaro seats, damn they're pretty.
RUN VINCENT RUN! RUN AWAY ONTO AUDIWORLD AND NEVER LOOK BACK.
​​

oh...
Good call.
Disregard the previous post.

Yeah, I'd actually go with the S5 SB over the Benz. My 2nd Benz and Im kinda disappointed. Was expecting more from a brand like this. The most annoying thing that actually drives me nuts is transmission jerkiness. Ughh, hate it.

Lmao, yeah dude I mean I prefer the Audi interior. It's a real nice cabin and the tech is fantastic. Virtual cockpit is done beautifully and everything is nice to the touch. The c43 exterior is slightly more appealing to me, and it has the best sounding exhaust for a V6 I've ever heard. I think either way I'd be left slightly disappointed missing the beautiful Audi interior, or the exhaust note on the c43. :nix:

So I already know what you're talking about I believe. During a test drive while in Sport+ I was at an intersection waiting to make a left and gave it some gas but hit the break again before going and the entire car violently bucked back and forth without any acceleration. Huge eye opener, I had to let off the gas and ease back into it. Even the MB rep that was in the car was surprised. That turned me off quite a bit. I've read some threads on it, seems like some people say it goes away after 1000-2000 miles. Also some say the tranny gets smoother with a tune. Either way that's really something quite dangerous and annoying. What other issues did you have?

Been lusting after S5 Sportback since I saw tons (last gen) in person in Germany 3 years ago. Glad Audi brought it over. Since both Audi and MB are not bringing Estates here, S5 sportback is a great substitute.

I would consider this S5 sportback jf I don't stick to Mercedes after my C450 lease end 🤔 the exterior is not as aggressive as the previous S5 though.
The interior is nice, but if MB would throw the "iPad" within the dash like the E Class, I would no doubt prefer the MB interior over Audis.

Performance wise, I'd say neck & neck.
You'll probably find more options for the S5, in terms of aftermarket/tuning options.

I was debating between a C43 and a S5 (sb) at the beginning too but the wait for the S5 and the price swayed me from it. With the specs I want the C43 turned out to be more than CAD10K cheaper than the S5.


However having previously owned an A5 (sb) I love that they are keeping the curvy shoulder line on the side and it looks freaking amazing in Nardo Grey!

Here is the C&D full review of the S5. The C43 outperforms the S5 by a considerable amount.


http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/...ll-test-review