The Audi TT RS is a fun car, no question. The carmaker managed to engineer a true mini R8 here, because it embodies everything that defines its larger, faster big brother.
The TT RS is brutally quick, and our test car's optional "dynamic plus" package bumps the top-speed limiter to 174 mph. Now, of course we didn't try to reach those speeds on public roads, but it's further proof that this particular TT is not like the others.
Driving dynamics are fine-tuned here in the thoughtful kind of way you would expect from a true supercar.
The turns are flat, precise, and perfectly balanced. The raucous burbles and pops from the exhaust give this car a sense of occasion on each startup. But the real thrill comes during purposeful acceleration; the turbocharged five-cylinder's harmonics soar from a low rumble to a thunderous howl that wakes up all of creation.
Is it worth the $80,000 price of entry for our test car? Yes and no.
Yes, because it's way more car than it looks like from outside.
No, because of its relatively close resemblance to a standard TT. Strictly in terms of appearance, it comes off as ... a dressed-up TT, despite Audi's best attempts to give it some flair.
It looks so normal, an obviously stock Toyota 86 pulled up beside me on the highway at one point and revved its anemic motor. A Toyota 86.
Now, are there better options at this price point? Sure.
You could buy a:
BMW M2
Chevy Corvette Grand Sport
Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R
Chevy Camaro ZL1
Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio
Mercedes-Benz AMG C63S
Jaguar F-Type R
But unlike most of those vehicles, in the Audi TT RS, you get an unhinged car that manages to hide its crazy. Still, it isn't for everybody, but those who own one know this: it's in a class by itself.