Audi RS3 hatch vs. Mercedes-AMG A45 drag race AKA the AMG M133 is a beast

[Sticky]

In the big hot hatch test posted a few days ago the Audi RS3 and Mercedes-AMG A45 were included but we did not see a drag race between the two. The British test was done in the wet anyway so the timed numbers were somewhat pointless when truly exploring the capability of these cars.

Fortunately, CAR Magazine managed to do a proper drag race between the two cars in the dry.

Both have all wheel drive and both have dual clutch transmissions. The A45 AMG has a smaller 2.0 liter M133 four-cylinder motor but with more rated horsepower at 375. The larger Audi 2.5 TFSI inline-5 is rated at 367 horsepower and 343 lb-ft of torque. You would think the larger motor would have more torque but the Mercedes-AMG is rated at 350 lb-ft. Keep in mind the M133 received a power bump but even before the bump the engine was underrated in its actual output.

So which car wins? It's close but despite the RS3 edging slightly off the line the A45 AMG pulls past it decisively.

The numbers are very slow in comparison to what is achieved on the 1/4 mile drag strip in the US but the test is done with both cars at the same place at the same time so it is what it is:

The A45 AMG is both quicker and faster. Incredible considering it has the smaller 2.0 liter four-cylinder motor. The M133 engine under the hood is truly world class.

[RobNyc]

Great to see the AMG 45 spanks that RS3