ABT Unleashes Audi RS6 and RS7 Legacy Edition with 986 HP

German tuner ABT Sportsline has unveiled the RS6 and RS7 Legacy Edition, giving these high-performance Audi models a jaw-dropping 986 horsepower (equivalent to 1,000 metric horsepower) and 848 pound-feet (1,150 Newton-meters) of torque.

This remarkable power boost is not for the faint of heart, and it comes at a price – $218,999 (or 205,000 euros), including installation. However, customers must supply their vehicles for these impressive modifications.

To achieve this astonishing power output, these cars require 102-octane fuel. On regular 98-octane gasoline, the RS6 and RS7 Legacy Edition deliver a slightly detuned 927 horsepower (940 metric horsepower) and 774 lb-ft (1,050 Nm) of torque.

ABT Sportsline undertakes a comprehensive engine overhaul to unleash this additional power. They incorporate forged pistons, reinforced connecting rods, and upgraded piston pins. The intake system features lightweight carbon fiber, and the turbos have been modified with enlarged air intakes. The package also includes additional oil coolers and fine-tuned intercoolers.

One of the most significant upgrades is the installation of an indirect water/ethanol-injection (IWI) system, managed by an electronic control unit. According to Thomas Biermaier, Managing Director of ABT Sportsline, this system allows for a greater supply of charge air or oxygen during fuel combustion, resulting in sustained high performance.

ABT has thoughtfully provided a 3.963-gallon (15-liter) tank in the rear cargo area to hold the water and ethanol mix required for the IWI system. The filler for this tank is conveniently located next to the gas cap. ABT estimates that drivers can travel approximately 1,864 miles (3,000 kilometers) between refills, and the myABT app displays the fluid tank's fill level. Drivers can easily order more IWI fluid directly from ABT.

Activating the IWI system is a straightforward process. Drivers need to put the RS6 or RS7 in the RS drive mode and hold down the button for one second, at which point the additional power becomes readily available.

For the 2024 model year, Audi introduced the RS6 Avant Performance and RS7 Performance to the United States. Equipped with a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8, these models produce 621 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. They can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds.

The standard top speed is 155 mph, while the limited-run Bronze Edition can reach 174 mph. These Performance models feature larger turbos, reduced sound deadening, a lighter mechanical self-locking center differential, and upgraded transmission control software compared to previous iterations. Prices for the RS6 start at $126,895, while the RS7 begins at $128,895.