Audi A5 vs. S5: Key Specs, Performance & Value Face-Off
Audi A5 is the entry-luxury coupe with a 201-hp 2.0 TFSI engine; Audi S5 is its sport sibling, dropping a 349-hp 3.0 TFSI V6 under the hood.
Buyers often stare at identical silhouettes and similar option sheets, then assume “S” is just trim—until they floor it and the S5 snaps forward while the A5 politely sips fuel.
Key Differences
A5: 201 hp, 0-60 in 6.4 s, $45k base. S5: 349 hp, 0-60 in 4.4 s, $55k base. Quattro is standard on both, but S5 adds sport diff, adaptive dampers, and bigger brakes.
Which One Should You Choose?
Daily commuter who values MPG and lower payments? A5. Want weekend back-road thrills without jumping to the RS tier? S5. Either way, resale is strong.
Does the S5 cost more to insure?
Yes, by roughly 15–20 % due to higher horsepower and repair costs.
Can I get manual in either?
Not in North America; both ship with a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch only.