Frank Stippler Shatters Lap Record at Nürburgring with Audi RS 3
Frank Stippler smashed a new lap record at the Nürburgring-Nordschleife aboard a pre-production model of the upgraded RS 3. The Audi Sport racing and development driver recorded a remarkable 7:33.123 minutes, eclipsing the current fastest lap by more than five seconds. This reaffirms the RS 3 as the quickest compact car once more.
Optimised cornering behaviour played a pivotal role; as Frank Stippler noted, "This was the key to our triumph. The latest RS 3 enters corners more readily due to meticulous fine-tuning, including brake torque vectoring, positioning the vehicle optimally for faster exits from the apex. Consequently, it reduces steering angle post-apex, minimising friction and enabling earlier acceleration, thereby maintaining higher speeds into the following straights."
The exceptional driving dynamics stem from the synergy between the torque splitter, which variably distributes torque across the rear wheels, electronic stabilisation control, wheel-selective torque control, and optionally adaptive dampers in the RS sports suspension. Thanks to an improved algorithm, an advanced modular vehicle dynamics controller now integrates lateral dynamics data with enhanced precision.
The legendary five-cylinder engine still powers the RS 3, delivering 400PS and 500Nm of torque. Coupled with Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R semi-slick tyres, a 19-inch ceramic brake system, RS sports suspension with adaptive damper control, and a refined chassis setup, the 2.5 TFSI engine propels the RS 3 with even greater vigour through bends, all while emitting its signature deep-throated roar from a unique 1-2-4-5-3 firing sequence.
Audi will start taking orders for the upgraded RS 3 production model from the end of August.
