I am considering an RS4 as a winter ride. Am I correct in assuming that with 4 snow tires this thing is unstoppable? I live on a dirt road and in mud season it can be challenging-will low ride height make this totally impractical. I have a BMW 325xiT and make it although I do bottom out when conditions are horrible. I have never gotten stuck though. (I know an SUV would be optimal for the worst conditions, however I am not much of an SUV guy)

I have been looking for an RS4 at the usual sites(autotrader, ebay, cars.com, aol) and am having a really hard time finding one without a sunroof. Any suggestions?

Also, are fold down rear seats with ski bag standard? Do you think I could fit a mountain in the back with seats down of course and front wheel off?

thanks.

 

I put stock sized winter tires on my RS4 and the MN winters haven't slowed me down a bit.

It looks like the sunroof delete (3FA) was a rare option.

stahmann-motorsports.com/RS4Registry/RS4_VIN_List.htm

I found it difficult fitting my 55cm cyclocross bike in the back (even with both seats folded down and both wheels off).

 

Doesn't sound like the RS4 will be the right fit for your conditions/road. It does sit lower than the xit so bottom scrape will be a problem. Just my observations of the two cars.

 

You are correct Sir! I have a 2007 RS4 with wheels and Dunlop Wintersport snow tires from Tire Rack, and it will go anywhere. you won't find an RS4 without a sunroof, but what is wrong with a sunroof? Why would you want to fit a mountain in your trunk in the first place?

 

I also think you will have problems bottoming out.
Maybe a cheap winter beater like an older WRX STI would be right for you.

 

Sorry for inaccuracy of the post. I meant mountain bike. I feel more secure with bike in the car.

I have sat in an RS4 with sunroof and I need more headroom with helmet on for track duty. I have sat in one with sunroof delete with no issues.

Thanks for input.

 

RS4 with winter tires is unstoppable, and also a helluva lot of fun. I know you say that you are not much of an SUV guy, but give the Porsche Cayenne a good look. Amazing vehicle with near sports car handling.

 

The weight of the engine combine with the reduced ground clearance will provoke "touch and go" situations.
I got mine on 19" winter tyres (the minimal size if you have the ceramic brakes)

 

^ I would have been all over an RS4 if they sold the avants over here.

 

I feel the exact same way man... Avants FTW

Chris

 

The avants are totally Bad ****.. However.. i bit the bullet and bought a saloon

There are people that put 18" wheels on the RS4 for track events.. Its just a tricky wheel to find. I believe the Volks clear the front brakes. Im loving mine.. Good luck with your pick! PS you can always put Sparco or Recaro seats in the car to lower your stance for helmet clearance. Besides.. you sit fairly high in the car with the seats moved all the way to the bottom already and the fixed racing seat will sit about 1.5" lower from there.