Audi
There’s something wonderfully outrageous about taking one of the most iconic rally cars ever built and stuffing a V8 under its hood that can scream all the way to 10,000 rpm. That’s exactly what a small British company called Audacious Automotive is doing with its new IV, a modern interpretation of the legendary Audi Quattro that combines classic Group B-inspired styling with some seriously impressive performance hardware. Built around the mechanical underpinnings of the B7-generation Audi RS4, this isn’t your typical restoration project. We’re talking up to 740 horsepower from a supercharged V8, a proper six-speed manual transmission, all-wheel drive, and a claimed top speed of 200 mph. If you’re someone who appreciates the raw, mechanical character of older performance cars but wants modern levels of capability, this creation might be something special.
The heart of the Audacious Automotive IV is Audi’s beloved 4.2-liter V8, originally found in the 2006 through 2008 RS4. While the original Quattro earned its reputation with a distinctive turbocharged five-cylinder engine, Audacious has gone in a completely different direction. Buyers can choose from four engine configurations, starting with a supercharged V8 producing approximately 592 horsepower. A more aggressive Stage Two package adds strengthened internal components and improved cooling to increase output to roughly 740 horsepower. However, the most intriguing choices are the naturally aspirated and supercharged versions engineered to rev to an incredible 10,000 rpm. That’s substantially higher than the original RS4’s already impressive 8,250-rpm redline. Regardless of the engine configuration, every IV retains the RS4’s six-speed manual transmission, making this a proper three-pedal performance machine.
Beyond the wild engine options, Audacious has put considerable effort into making the IV lighter and more capable than the sedan on which it’s based. Customers can choose traditional metal bodywork incorporating components from an original Quattro donor or an entirely new carbon fiber body that eliminates the need for a classic Quattro shell. The lightweight carbon fiber version is targeting a curb weight of approximately 2,755 pounds, while the metal-bodied version should weigh around 3,140 pounds. Those are impressive figures considering the power and all-wheel-drive hardware involved. Audacious claims the IV can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 3.4 seconds and reach 200 mph, although the company hasn’t specified which engine configuration achieves those numbers. With such substantial performance packed into a relatively lightweight chassis, this could be a genuinely entertaining machine.
Visually, the IV pays tribute to the short-wheelbase Audi Sport Quattro with its wide fenders, aggressive stance, boxy proportions, and unmistakable 1980s rally-car attitude. However, everything has been carefully reimagined with modern materials and construction techniques. Inside, the cabin features a more traditional, driver-focused layout with bespoke instrumentation, redesigned switchgear, and extensive leather upholstery. Audacious is also offering a comprehensive personalization program, allowing customers to select everything from exterior colors and interior materials to suspension settings and mechanical specifications. According to reporting from Autocar, the company expects approximately 80% of buyers to choose the lightweight carbon fiber body, suggesting most customers are prioritizing performance over retaining original Quattro bodywork.
Of course, all this engineering and exclusivity comes at a substantial price. Audacious Automotive plans to build just 50 examples of the IV worldwide, with pricing starting around $468,650 before additional costs such as taxes, donor vehicles, and customization. The first customer delivery is targeted for late 2027, and the company says the complete commissioning and construction process can take approximately three years. That’s serious money for a restomod, but we suspect the limited production numbers and extraordinary mechanical specifications will attract collectors looking for something beyond the usual exotic car. Personally, we love that Audacious is embracing a high-revving V8, manual transmission, and lightweight construction instead of following the industry’s increasingly electrified performance formula. The original Audi Quattro helped revolutionize rallying, and while this modern interpretation takes plenty of creative liberties, it captures the rebellious spirit that made the original so memorable.
Lloyd Tobias is a seasoned automotive journalist and passionate enthusiast with over 15 years of experience immersed in the world of cars. Whether it’s exploring the latest advancements in automotive technology or keeping a close pulse on breaking industry news, Lloyd brings a sharp perspective and a deep appreciation for all things automotive. His writing blends technical insight with real-world enthusiasm, making his contributions both informative and engaging for readers who share his love for the drive. When he’s not behind the keyboard or under the hood, Lloyd enjoys test driving the newest models and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
