Straight Six Vs 5 cylinder Audi - my personal observations. For me it was all about the sound with the RS. Didn't need the B&O hifi with a sound track like that. With the RS Sports exhaust and using the flaps, it made a big difference. Its the one thing I really miss about the TT. The car was little used, but each outing was an event. I understand the first gen 3 RS models had different software/mapping, so had more pops and bangs. Rumour had it that this wasn't good for the catalytic converter longevity. Mine had a revised software update. That meant less of the crackles like the early ones. However, it sounded pretty good, even booting it up to 30 mph, even in comfort mode.
The engine sound itself was also unusual, and I can now usually tell when one is going along a bypass nearby. It was the fastest car I've owned, and it was quick. Did a few tame launches, but that killed the exhaust sound. It consistently drew lots of attention from pedestrians, and cyclists but some obviously didn't like it at all. I absolutely oved it. Give it a boot in 1st, and the change up fart could sound like a gun going off. Hence the head turning. Being 4WD, it was easy to give some juice and the drive system and safety features played their part. I do miss having the exhaust flap button, that gave a stealth option. However, for me driving became more about the sound, looking to make the most of the exhaust and engine sound. Those 20" wheels were kerb magnets!
As for the M40i, I hate that flippin' fake sound thing. Will be looking to get a Carly or similar for that. I wish there was an exhaust flap control option, irrespective of driving mode. Moans over. Its smoother, and is more grown up, than the spotty teenager ASBO RS. The 8-speed box is a real pleasure, adding to silky smooth progress, with nice upshifts. I found the RS to be slow at shifting, despite being a DSG, and that included manual mode. Seemed a bit of a pause. I enjoy the Z4 a great deal, but I've driven less than 200 miles in it. My RS has the fixed RS suspension. Should have got the mag ride dampers. So many potholes and traffic calming humps it became an uncomfortable and less satisfying drive. The Z4 is also more of a challenge to drive with RWD only, which helps to calm down over-enthusiastic driving. Its a different sensation with RWD that I've not had for decades of FWD/AWD cars. I'm getting used to it and enjoy it too. The B58 is a wonderful engine, and I love it already. Tried some manual shifts that gave a bit of over-run sound.
One other thing is there are lots of gen 3 TTs around. Fewer and further between are the RS models, but looking at Autotrader, there seem to be many TTRS cars for sale currently and more than seen previously. The G29 Z4, well they are exceedingly rare. Only seen about 3 on the road. I had to go to a BMW dealer to see one in person, after seeing lots of YouTube films. I'm enjoying greatly that it not a common car on the road. Unlike the 2 a penny Porsche motors around Surrey, its nice to have a bit of exclusivity. I loved the original Z4, but I'm pleased with the G29 - Oh yes!!
North West Surrey
Its not a daily driver, so mileage will continue to be low.
