Can the Audi RS e-tron GT Take Down a Mercedes-AMG E63 S?

This may seem like an odd pairing; an all-electric performance GT car versus a V8-powered super sedan. However, it actually makes quite a bit of sense when you dig a bit deeper. For starters, both cars have similar power levels. The Mercedes-AMG E63 S uses a 4.0 liter twin-turbo V8 with 612 horsepower and 627 lb-ft (850 Nm) of torque. While the Audi RS e-tron GT uses dual electric motors to make 646 horsepower and  612 lb-ft (830 Nm) of torque. Not only that but this is a sort of redemption chance for Audi Sport, as there isn’t a single gas-powered Audi RS car that can beat the E63 S in a drag race. Can an electric one do it?

In this new drag race from Carwow, we get to see both cars line up and finally see whether Audi can take down AMG’s fastest sedan. Mat Watson drove the AMG, while Yianni from Yiannimize drove the Audi RS e-tron GT.

Both cars have advantages in this test. The Audi RS e-tron GT makes all of its torque instantaneously, making it easier to launch off the line. However, the AMG is much, much lighter. Like 300 kg (660 lbs) lighter. Which car’s advantage is more important?

In the standing drag race, the Audi RS e-tron GT beat the AMG by a good margin. There were about dead-even off the line but the Audi pulled away relatively quickly and took the win. In the rolling drag race, with both cars in their least aggressive, most comfortable settings, the Audi crushed the AMG, jumping ahead a few cars lengths before the AMG could even downshift into its lowest car.

Though, once they switched to the sport mode rolling race, things changed just a bit and became more interesting. The braking test was also interesting, proving that weight really is an important factor. In the end, though, both cars are incredibly fast, very cool cars that any enthusiast would love to daily drive.