Audi RS 5 Cabriolet

Convertible 2012–2020 450 hp Petrol Turbo

The Audi RS 5 Cabriolet combines 450 hp quattro all-wheel drive with four-seat open-top motoring — a rare combination of RS performance and convertible freedom that makes every drive an occasion, whether the roof is up or down.

450

Horsepower

3.9s

0–100 km/h

280km/h

Top Speed (limited)

4-seat

Seating Capacity

Overview

The Audi RS 5 Cabriolet occupies a rare position in the performance car landscape: a four-seat open-top sports car with genuine RS performance credentials. Launched in 2012 on the B8 platform with a 4.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 producing 450 hp and an unforgettable 8,250 rpm redline, then re-engineered for the B9 generation in 2017 with a twin-turbocharged 2.9-litre V6 also producing 450 hp but with substantially more torque at lower revs. Both engines power all four wheels through quattro AWD — giving the RS 5 Cabriolet all-weather confidence that no two-wheel-drive convertible competitor can match.

The RS 5 Cabriolet's electrohydraulic soft-top opens or closes in just 15 seconds and operates at speeds up to 50 km/h, making it genuinely practical for those unexpected rain showers. With the roof down, the four-seat layout accommodates adult passengers in the rear — a genuine advantage over two-seat convertible rivals. The B9 generation's 2.9 TFSI V6 biturbo delivers 600 Nm of torque from 1,900 rpm, transforming the character from the B8's high-revving emotional experience to a more brutal, immediately accessible power delivery. Despite this shift, Audi maintained the 3.9-second 0–100 km/h time across both generations, with the B9 actually feeling faster in real-world overtaking due to its superior low-end torque.

In Azerbaijan, the RS 5 Cabriolet is a rare and desirable choice — the combination of RS performance and open-top motoring perfectly suits Baku's coastal boulevard culture and the warm summer months that the Caspian climate provides. The quattro AWD system ensures the Cabriolet is usable year-round, even in wet conditions where a rear-wheel-drive convertible would be challenging. As a used purchase, the RS 5 Cabriolet offers strong value — the B8 V8 version in particular is available at reasonable prices relative to its performance and character, though buyers should be prepared for the higher fuel consumption and maintenance costs that come with RS ownership.

RS 5 Cabriolet in Pictures

Visual references for exterior styling, cabin design, and key details. Images fall back gracefully on load error.

Audi RS 5 Cabriolet (B9, 2017) — the 450 hp V6 biturbo combines performance and open-air freedom

First-generation RS 5 Cabriolet (B8) — powered by the legendary 4.2 FSI naturally aspirated V8 at 450 hp

The RS 5 Cabriolet rear features the quad oval exhaust tips and RS-specific diffuser that mark it as the performance variant

RS sport seats, flat-bottomed steering wheel, and carbon trim distinguish the RS 5 Cabriolet cockpit

Key Specifications

Body: 2-door 4-seat electrohydraulic soft-top convertible
Engine (B8): 4.2 FSI naturally aspirated V8 — 450 hp at 8,250 rpm
Engine (B9): 2.9 TFSI biturbo V6 — 450 hp / 600 Nm from 1,900 rpm
Drive: quattro permanent all-wheel drive (Torsen on B8, sport differential optional on B9)
Transmission: 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch (B8) / 8-speed tiptronic (B9)
0–100 km/h: 4.6 s (B8) / 3.9 s (B9) | Top speed: 250 km/h (280 km/h optional)
Kerb weight: 1,870 kg (B8) / 1,960 kg (B9) | Roof: opens/closes in 15 seconds up to 50 km/h
Production: 2012–2016 (B8 V8) / 2017–2020 (B9 V6 biturbo)

Variant Comparison

Variant	Engine	Power	Drive	Best For
RS 5 Cabriolet B8 (2012–2016)	4.2 FSI V8 NA	450 hp	quattro AWD	Enthusiasts who want the emotional V8 experience — the naturally aspirated 4.2 FSI's 8,250 rpm redline and exhaust note are irreplaceable; the B8 is the driver's choice
RS 5 Cabriolet B9 (2017–2020)	2.9 TFSI V6 biturbo	450 hp	quattro AWD	Those who prioritise outright performance and efficiency — the B9 V6 biturbo is 0.7 s faster to 100 km/h, more torquey, and uses less fuel than the V8 it replaced

Competitor Snapshot

Model	Strength	Compromise
BMW M4 Convertible	More driver-focused two-seat layout, higher-revving straight-six, sharper handling; strong BMW performance brand recognition in Azerbaijan	Only two rear seats — not practical for regular adult rear passengers; rear-wheel drive requires care in wet weather
Mercedes-AMG C 63 Cabriolet	More contemporary design with modern cabin technology; available as coupe and cabriolet in current generation; strong AMG brand cachet	Two rear seats only, no quattro AWD option in C-Class AMG Cabriolet; complex biturbo V8 service costs
Porsche 911 Cabriolet	Iconic 911 heritage and driving experience; rear-engine layout for unique feel; outstanding resale value and brand prestige	2+2 seating only — true rear passengers impossible; significantly higher purchase price; no quattro AWD in base variants

Cost-of-Ownership Estimator (Azerbaijan)

Annual distance (km)Fuel consumption (L/100km)Fuel price ($/L)Annual service budget ($)Annual insurance ($)Annual tires ($)

Annual fuel use: 1620 litres
Annual fuel cost: $1053
Total yearly estimate: $7053
Monthly average: $588

The soft-top roof mechanism requires annual professional lubrication and seal conditioning — neglect leads to hydraulic pump failure and water ingress, both expensive to repair.
B8 V8 engines require strict oil change intervals of 5,000 km with a quality 5W-40 — carbon build-up on the intake valves is a known issue with direct injection engines at high mileage.
The B9 2.9 TFSI V6 biturbo benefits from a cooldown period after hard driving — the turbochargers require sustained oil flow after thermal stress; avoid immediate engine shutdown after track or high-speed use.

Maintenance & Service in Azerbaijan

Oil and filter change every 5,000 km with Audi-approved 5W-40 fully synthetic — both the B8 V8 and B9 V6 biturbo demand strict oil maintenance for longevity.
Soft-top lubrication and seal treatment annually — use manufacturer-approved seal conditioner and hydraulic fluid to maintain the roof mechanism and prevent water leaks.
Brake fluid replacement every 2 years — RS-specification Brembo brakes generate substantial heat under hard use; fresh fluid prevents vapour lock and maintains consistent pedal feel.
Spark plug replacement every 40,000 km for the V6 biturbo, every 60,000 km for the V8 — worn plugs cause misfires under boost and increase fuel consumption noticeably.
quattro drivetrain inspection including Haldex or Torsen centre differential service every 60,000 km — the all-wheel drive system should be serviced with correct specification fluid.

Used RS 5 Cabriolet Buying Checklist

Test the soft-top roof through a full open and close cycle — listen for hydraulic pump strain, check that all seals contact correctly, and inspect for any water staining inside the roof liner.
Inspect the B8 V8's intake manifold for carbon deposits — use a borescope if possible; heavy carbon build-up on intake valves requires walnut-blasting and is an expensive service item.
Check all four RS Brembo brake discs for grooves and minimum thickness — the large discs are more resistant to warping but wear faster than standard spec and are costly to replace.
Test the B9 2.9 TFSI under hard acceleration for any signs of turbo lag, hesitation, or boost pressure irregularities — these can indicate intercooler, turbo seal, or blow-off valve issues.
Inspect the sport differential (if fitted) for correct operation — the RS 5's optional rear sport differential should distribute torque smoothly with no juddering through tight corners.
Review service history for timing chain maintenance on the B8 V8 — the 4.2 FSI timing chain is robust but should be inspected at high mileage; chain stretch is an early warning sign.

RS 5 Cabriolet FAQ — Azerbaijan Buyers

Q: What is the difference between the B8 and B9 RS 5 Cabriolet?

The B8 RS 5 Cabriolet (2012–2016) used a 4.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 producing 450 hp at 8,250 rpm — a high-revving, emotionally engaging engine with a spectacular exhaust note but moderate low-end torque. The B9 generation (2017–2020) switched to a 2.9-litre V6 biturbo also producing 450 hp but now with 600 Nm from just 1,900 rpm — delivering a much more aggressive mid-range punch. The B9 is faster (3.9 s vs 4.6 s to 100 km/h) and more fuel-efficient, but many enthusiasts prefer the B8 V8's character, soundtrack, and comparative simplicity.

Q: Is the RS 5 Cabriolet practical as a daily car?

Surprisingly yes — the RS 5 Cabriolet is among the most practical performance convertibles available. The four-seat layout accommodates adult rear passengers for shorter journeys, the 380-litre boot (with roof up) handles regular shopping or weekend luggage, and the quattro AWD system provides confidence in wet weather that no rear-wheel-drive convertible can match. The electrohydraulic roof is quick and reliable. Fuel consumption in daily driving averages 11–13 litres per 100 km, which is acceptable for the performance on offer. The RS 5 Cabriolet functions as a genuine daily driver for those who can accept sports car running costs.

Q: How reliable is the RS 5 Cabriolet soft-top mechanism?

The electrohydraulic soft-top is generally reliable when properly maintained. Common issues include hydraulic pump failure (usually after 80,000+ km without proper servicing), roof seal deterioration causing water ingress, and the plastic rear window yellowing or developing cracks after years of UV exposure. Annual professional lubrication and seal treatment significantly extends the mechanism's life. The rear window can be replaced independently of the full roof canvas — a less expensive repair than a full hood replacement. In Azerbaijan's climate, the roof mechanism benefits from regular operation rather than extended periods folded.

Q: Does the RS 5 Cabriolet have a roll-bar protection system?

Yes — Audi fitted the RS 5 Cabriolet with automatic pop-up rollover protection bars behind the rear headrests. The bars deploy in approximately 0.25 seconds when sensors detect an imminent rollover, providing structural protection for rear passengers. This system is mandatory for open-top vehicles in most markets and has proven reliable in independent safety testing. The pop-up bars also have an aesthetic benefit — they frame the open cockpit cleanly when the roof is down without the visual bulk of permanent roll hoops.

Q: What should I budget for RS 5 Cabriolet ownership in Azerbaijan?

Budgeting for RS 5 Cabriolet ownership requires accounting for higher-than-average fuel costs (450 hp V6 or V8 in daily use averages 11–13 l/100 km), Audi RS servicing rates (oil changes every 5,000 km, brake pads every 30–40,000 km), annual soft-top maintenance, and larger tyre costs on 19–20 inch staggered fitments. In Azerbaijan, the relative scarcity of Audi-trained technicians means some owners travel to Baku for specialist servicing. Insurance is higher than standard A5 rates due to the RS performance classification. Total annual cost of ownership for a well-used example in Azerbaijan is approximately 6,000–10,000 AZN depending on mileage and usage.

Should You Buy the Audi RS 5 Cabriolet?

The RS 5 Cabriolet is the most emotionally rewarding convertible in Audi's history — combining RS performance with genuine four-seat open-air practicality and quattro all-weather confidence.

If you are drawn to the idea of a performance convertible but need four seats and all-weather usability, the RS 5 Cabriolet stands almost alone in its segment. The B8 V8 offers one of the last great naturally aspirated performance soundtracks before turbocharging became universal, while the B9 V6 biturbo delivers a more rounded, modern performance experience with improved efficiency. Both are genuinely exciting cars that reward enthusiastic driving while remaining comfortable, refined, and practical in daily use. In Azerbaijan's warm climate, the Cabriolet body style is well-suited to the summer months, and the quattro system ensures year-round usability. For buyers who want an RS car with open-top character, the RS 5 Cabriolet is the definitive answer.