Audi RS 3 competition limited: an exclusive edition celebrating 50 years of the five-cylinder engine
Audi Sport pays tribute to one of its most iconic engines with an exceptional edition of the RS 3. Named the Audi RS 3 competition limited, this special series, limited to just 750 examples worldwide, including 13 for the French market, celebrates 50 years of Audi’s legendary five-cylinder engine. More expressive, sharper and even more performance-focused, this compact sports car brings together all of the brand’s expertise in design, technology and driving dynamics. A true collector’s item that carries on a legacy dating back to 1976.
A five-cylinder engine still unique in its segment
At the heart of this limited edition is the famous 2.5 TFSI five-cylinder engine, a powertrain that has become a true signature of Audi Sport. Producing 400 hp and 500 Nm of torque, it propels the RS 3 competition limited from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 290 km/h.
Beyond its performance, it is above all the character of this engine that sets it apart. Its distinctive firing order (1-2-4-5-3) produces a deep, instantly recognisable sound, enhanced by an RS exhaust system with electronically controlled flaps and deliberately reduced sound insulation between the engine and the passenger compartment. Depending on the selected driving mode, the flaps open sooner to provide an even more immersive sound experience.
To fully exploit this potential, Audi Sport equips the RS 3 for the first time with adjustable coilover suspension developed specifically for this edition. The dual-valve dampers offer numerous adjustment options, allowing the vehicle’s handling to be precisely tailored for either road or track use. A new, stiffer rear anti-roll bar, the renowned RS Torque Splitter, standard ceramic brakes and optimised aerodynamics complete a chassis designed to deliver a remarkable balance of precision, agility and stability.
An exclusive design down to the finest detail
Visually, the Audi RS 3 competition limited immediately asserts its status as an exceptional model. Numerous matt carbon elements (front spoiler, side skirts, mirror caps, diffuser and rear wing) reinforce its resolutely sporty appearance. New 19-inch wheels finished in matt Neodymium Gold, specific Matrix LED headlights and the new Malachite Green colour, inspired by the Audi Sport quattro rally car, further underline its exclusivity.
The interior continues this unique atmosphere with a combination of black, Neodymium Gold and Ginger White. RS bucket seats upholstered in Dinamica microfibre, matt carbon inserts, numerous contrasting stitching details and the numbered plaque on the centre console are reminders that each example belongs to an extremely limited production run.
The driver also benefits from an environment entirely dedicated to performance. The Virtual Cockpit Plus features an exclusive display inspired by the 1994 Audi RS 2 Avant, with distinctive white dials and numerous displays dedicated to sporty driving: power, torque, mechanical temperatures, G-forces, lap timer and even a launch animation when using Launch Control.
With the RS 3 competition limited, Audi Sport is not simply celebrating fifty years of an engine that has become legendary. The brand has created a collector’s edition that brings together the very best of its expertise in performance, technology and design. A rare model intended for the most demanding enthusiasts, which will undoubtedly remain one of the most exclusive Audi RS 3 models ever produced.
