In Europe, and especially its western part, very fast estate cars have always been in high demand, ever since it was decided that other body styles aside from the classic sedan/saloon were allowed to go really fast, be cool and sell well at the same time.
Because of the noticeable popularity, the breed has moved on considerably over the years, so much so that now you can get one of these crazy wagons and keep up with or even be faster than some supercars, and annihilate most normal sports cars.
Two of the best-known models from the category are the Audi RS6 Avant, and the estate version of the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG. Both have twin-turbocharged V8 engines, and both have zero to sixty (~100km/h) times of around four seconds (a bit under for the Audi, and a bit over for the Benz), as well as limited top speeds. However, if you were to choose one of these cars, which would it be? Perhaps this latest video test put together by Auto Express will help you choose your favorite.
As always, if you want to buy one of these cars, you really have to go and drive all of the competitors, since they are in essence cars with sporting credentials – they are quite expensive as well, so you need to make an informed decision that will please you in the most balanced way.
The video explains that the Audi is really fast off the line, and even against the Benz, which gets similar power, but lacks the traction of all-wheel drive (not in the US, though, where it now is standard) so fast, clean launches aren’t its strong point, especially if the road surface is even slightly damp. However, the RS6 is said to lack poise when cornering, and it apparently suffers from a noticeable tendency to understeer and push wide. That is unheard of in the E63, which gets sharper and more direct steering, and the tail-happy character that we’re used to from AMG’s rear-wheel driven offerings.
Both cars are highly-competent, but in the end it all comes down to personal preference, taste and the kind of arguments you want to have with you down at the pub, to justify the choice in front of your friends.
By Andrei Nedelea
VIDEO