5 Reasons Why The Porsche Taycan Turbo S Is Better Than The Audi RS e-Tron GT

HOW DOES THE AUDI RS e-tron GT COMPARE TO THE PORSCHE TAYCAN TURBO S?

The Taycan Turbo S, which is Porsche’s first electric vehicle, fully lives up to the brand’s commitment to sleek, sporty designs and high-performance reputation. It’s a stunning sports EV that delivers incredible acceleration. With its 750 horsepower and 774 pound-feet of torque, it dashes from 0 to 60 in 2.4 seconds. It also handles with maximum precision, and it’s the first production EV that comes with a two-speed transmission and an 800-volt electrical system resulting in quicker acceleration and shorter recharge times.

Within two years after Porsche released the Taycan, Audi released the similarly equipped e-tron GT in 2022. Although built on the same platform, you can quickly notice how it stands out from the Porsche, featuring an elegant, sharp appearance from every angle.

Like the Turbo S, the Audi RS e-tron GT also performs amazingly, peaking at 637 horsepower, 612 pound-feet of torque and a 0 to 60 sprint in just 2.9 seconds. While its figures are less than the Taycan Turbo S’ 750 horsepower and 2.4 seconds 0 to 60 time, it comes at a significantly lower price than the Porsche, costing $148,595, while the Turbo S costs $196,550.

That makes the Audi $47,995 cheaper than the Porsche, yet it offers more power than you’ll ever need and the savings capable of buying you the 330-mile range Tesla Model Y crossover alongside the Audi.

However, before introducing the RS e-tron, the Taycan’s stunning presence and performance made it a highly sought-after vehicle. But given the e-tron GT’s lower price, equally good-looking appearance, sportier interior, and almost similar performance does the Turbo S still possess what it takes to be the favorite of EV enthusiasts? Here are five reasons why the Porsche Taycan Turbo S is better than the Audi RS e-tron GT.

1. THE TAYCAN TURBO S OFFERS MORE POWER

Truth be told, if you’re interested in a high-performance sports car that’s also an EV, there is no denying that acceleration and speed are both critical. And while the RS e-tron GT and Taycan Turbo S both deliver impressive acceleration numbers, the Audi lags behind ever-so-slightly, by 0.5 seconds. That is, comparing the e-tron GT’s 2.9 seconds against the Taycan’s Turbo S’ 2.4 seconds.

That might seem insignificant because it’s just a fraction of a second, but it makes a big difference in performance. That’s because the difference continues throughout the powerband, with the margin increasing over the quarter-mile distance and beyond. For instance, the Turbo S clears the quarter-mile in 10.5 seconds, while the e-tron GT does so in 11.9 seconds.

The e-tron GT’s top speed is electronically limited to 152 mph, while that of the Taycan Turbo S is limited to 161 mph. There’s also a big difference in power, with the e-tron producing 637 horsepower and 612 lb-ft of torque while the Turbo S delivers 750 horsepower and 774 lb-ft of torque. That’s a whopping 113 and 162 difference in horsepower and torque, respectively.

These figures make the Taycan the first real challenger to the Tesla Model S Plaid, which offers 1,020 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque and achieves 2.3 seconds 0 to 60 sprint, just 0.1 seconds faster than the Turbo S. The downside is that the Porsche’s performance comes with a higher price tag, as tabulated below.

Looking at the figures, you’ll pay so much more for a slight difference in power and performance by going with the Turbo S. Hence, choosing the more affordable Model S Plaid is the best option if it’s just the speed you want. However, if you’re after a fully-fledged sports EV, the Turbo S is the superior choice since it makes more power than you’ll ever use.

2. THE TAYCAN TURBO S OFFERS A SHARPER DRIVE

The low and aggressive stance of the Turbo S, coupled with excellent acceleration, handling, and performance, enables it to deliver one of the most thrilling and engaging driving experiences. Of course, its all-wheel-drive system and air suspension play a part, delivering maximum response to those who want to push the Turbo S to its limits.

Another cool feature is the number of driving modes and settings it offers. There are four driving modes, Range, Normal, Sport, Sport Plus, and an individual mode which allows you to customize the vehicle’s performance to your preference. Hence, whether you want a calm or captivating ride, the Taycan Turbo S won’t disappoint. Still, the Turbo S is slightly harsher and makes a more pronounced road noise.

The e-tron GT, on the other hand, keeps a fine line between performance and comfort, providing a well-controlled and compliant ride. Its adjustable air suspension enables a smooth ride, while the all-wheel steering delivers stable and confident handling despite being low to the ground.

Audi also paid attention to sound insulation and the reduction of noise within the RS e-tron’s motor itself, resulting in a quieter cabin. This allows drivers who prefer a quiet ride to enjoy the smooth acceleration and responsive handling of the e-tron GT.

That said, if you’re in for the sheer joy of driving, Porsche’s exceptional performance and driving dynamics, such as the ability to switch from all-wheel drive to rear-biased, make it a clear choice over its family rival.

3. THE TAYCAN TURBO S OFFERS MULTIPLE CHARGING OPTIONS

The Taycan and e-tron GT benefit from the 800-volt electrical system that delivers quicker acceleration and faster charging. So, both vehicles can charge up to 80 percent in a remarkable 22 and 23 minutes, respectively.

But the Taycan gets an advantage as it supports up to 350 kilowatts of DC fast charging, offering you more availability regarding where to recharge. The Taycan’s route planner also features navigational assistance to the nearest charging station, allowing you to plan your route considering charging facilities and giving you more convenience than the e-tron GT.

But these features come with strings attached, as the Taycan achieves a slightly lower range than the e-tron GT. Even though both cars come with a 93.4 kWh battery pack, the e-tron GT can drive up to a range of 238 miles on a single charge, while the Porsche can drive up to 227 miles.

This means that the Audi offers 11 more miles than the Porsche. It also features a regenerative braking system that allows the car to recoup the energy lost through deceleration and braking, adding to its ability to reach higher mileage in the process. The Turbo S also offers regenerative braking of the sort, but the e-tron GT gets the better mileage.

Hence, if you enjoy a punchy drive and don’t care about making frequent stops to power up, the Taycan Turbo S is the vehicle to go with. Your charging times will also be shorter if you can locate DC fast chargers.

However, if your preferred driving is geared towards the comfort side and you want to travel long miles before recharging, then the RS e-tron GT is the better option.

The Tesla Model S Plaid is also worth considering, it offers a range of up to 396 miles despite producing 1,020 horsepower and a 2.3-second 0 to 60 acceleration. Those are better numbers than both the Porsche and the Audi, and the $110,130 price tag also means it’s thousands of dollars cheaper.

It is worth remembering that the Model S Plaid does, however, lack the luxurious flairs that the Taycan and e-tron GT bring to the table. The lapses in the build quality that are frequently reported by bemused owners, such as panel gaps and the peeling off of trim pieces in the Tesla, are things to keep in mind as well.

4. THE TAYCAN OFFERS MORE PASSENGER AND CARGO SPACE

There are five trims of the Taycan, each offering a more spacious wagon-styled version dubbed the Cross Turismo, extending the range to 10 trims. If you’re concerned about passenger and cargo space, you can opt for the Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo, which offers more rear passenger and cargo space than the regular Taycan sedan. The same goes for wagon lovers who are looking for an EV that’s also a sports sedan.

Despite offering more interior and cargo space, the Turbo S Cross Turismo delivers the same 750 horsepower, 774-pound-feet torque, and 2.4-second acceleration as its sedan sibling. Unsurprisingly, however, it comes with the least range. It can travel up to 222 miles, 5 miles less than the sedan version’s 227 and 16 miles less than the RS e-tron’s 238. This is something you should consider because you’ll be trading mileage for space.

Another thing to consider is the price, as it costs significantly more than both the Taycan sedan and the e-tron GT. The asking price is $191,450, a $2,600 upgrade from the Taycan sedan and $46,055 more than the RS e-tron.

At this price point, the Tesla Model S Plaid will likely become a consideration once again since it offers more passenger and cargo space, 1,020 horsepower, and 396 miles of range. Its cargo space measures 3.1 cubic feet in the front and 25 cubic feet at the rear, and at a price of $110,130, the Model S Plaid is $81,320 cheaper than the Turbo S Cross Turismo.

The Lucid Air is another vehicle to contemplate in terms of space, power, and range. The Grand Touring Performance trim is comparable to the Model S, Taycan Turbo S, and the RS e-tron GT. It has a total power output of 1,050 horses and 921 pound-feet of torque and a range of 446 miles, 77 more miles than the Model S Plaid.

It also has ample passenger and cargo room with 10 cubic feet in the front and 22.1 cubic feet in the rear. But it comes at $163,000, which is way more expensive than the Model S Plaid or the e-tron GT, for that matter. But it is significantly cheaper than the Turbo S sedan and its wagon-styled version.

That said, the Turbo S and the e-tron GT are complete sports cars, while the Tesla and Lucid Air are regular sedans with additional power. So if you want a sports EV with slightly more space, the Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo fits that category better.

5. THE TAYCAN TURBO S LOOKS (ARGUABLY) SPORTIER

Design is very subjective, but when you put these vehicles side-by-side, chances are you’ll find Porsche’s exterior aesthetics more pleasing. From its sporty yet aggressive front fascia to its sculpted sides and distinctive sloping roofline, the Turbo S features a unique styling that sets it apart from the competition.

It holds a very low stance accompanied by a long and sloping hood, flared-out fenders, and LED headlights that give it a revolutionary look. The interior is stylish and impressive as well, with a large curved display that houses the infotainment system, instrument cluster, and other vehicle controls.

The e-tron GT is also interestingly attractive, posing a lower stance, a busier front end, and a more chiseled bodywork. The thin laser headlights and the light bar that runs across the length of the rear blend perfectly with the car’s sporty look, while the body lines that cascade towards the rear also give it a fastback roofline.

Moreover, the e-tron gets an edge over the Taycan in its interior as it looks sportier than the Porsche. It features the most luxury features you’ll expect from a high-end sports vehicle, including a nicely bolstered flat-bottomed steering wheel and sports seats, which are also bolstered even in the rear.

It also comes with premium and comfortable materials and advanced technology. Across the dashboard are a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment, which houses most of the e-tron GT’s functional features, such as climate control and radio. So, if you want a sportier feel inside your EV, consider choosing the Audi, but if the exterior appearance is more of a concern, the Taycan will surely meet your expectations.

CONCLUSION

With brands like Tesla leading the Electric Vehicle (EV) market, Porsche and Audi are probably not the first cars that come to mind when considering an EV. The growth and popularity of EVs continue to attract many automakers to the thriving market, including those well-known for their lineup of luxury and sports cars. Hence, Porsche and Audi also opted to join the segment with these competent and high-performance EVs.

When putting the two cars side-by-side, the Audi RS e-tron GT evenly matches the Porsche Taycan Turbo S in many ways. However, some small but useful features on the Porsche make it a fun and convenient option over the e-tron. These include the Taycan’s extreme performance, ability to charge faster, alongside superior charging availability, extra space, sportier appearance, and the option of the Cross Turismo version for added practicality. Hence, if you want a sharper drive, multiple charging points, or recharge a little quicker, the Porsche will likely be the superior choice.

However, for many, the Audi will be more appropriate since it offers similar performance and achieves a better range than the Porsche. It is quieter, more comfortable, cheaper, and can serve as a superior daily driver over the Taycan’s aggressive ride.

For more practicality, the Tesla Model S Plaid should undoubtedly be another consideration. It doesn’t offer the sportiness of the Audi or the Porsche. Instead, it offers more power, space, and range alongside a significantly more affordable price tag than either option.

Although Tesla enjoys a reputation as a trendy and contemporary brand, it does have some drawbacks, including frequently encountered issues related to build quality. Both the Porsche and Audi will offer far superior quality and luxury throughout. The Lucid Air could be considered as another alternative, falling into similar pricing territory to the e-tron and the Taycan.

FAQs

1. How far can the Taycan Turbo S go?

With the 93.4 kWh battery pack, the Taycan Turbo S can travel up to 227 miles on a single charge.

2. What is the maximum speed of the Taycan Turbo?

The Porsche Taycan Turbo S delivers a top speed of 162 mph.

3. What does the Taycan stand for?

The Taycan name came from a Turkic term that translates into English as “soul of a spirited young horse,” depicting the character of Porsche’s first electric vehicle.

4. What kind of battery is in the Taycan?

The Taycan uses Porsche’s Two-deck Performance Battery Plus, a pack of 33-cell modules comprising 12 individual cells each, totaling 396 cells. It generates a total capacity of 93.4 kWh.

5. What is the battery life of the Audi RS e-tron GT?

Every e-tron GT uses an 83.7 kWh lithium-ion battery. In the RS model, it achieves a range of 238 miles.

6. How many motors does the RS e-tron GT have?

The RS e-tron GT features two powerful electric motors of 800-volt technology and electrical all-wheel drive.

7. How many gears does the e-tron GT have?

Like the Taycan, the e-tron GT gets a two-speed transmission system.

8. How many seats does the Audi RS e-tron GT have?

The Audi RS e-tron GT is an all-electric four-door coupe with five-person seating.

9. What is the difference between the Audi e-tron GT and the RS e-tron GT?

Audi uses the letters RS, which stands for Racing Sport, to indicate its high-performance vehicles with more horsepower, torque, and performance.