The 2011 Audi RS5 unveils the next generation of Audi Quattro all-wheel drive: a crown-gear differential. The self-locking crown-gear center differential is compact and lightweight Ð and attains a high efficiency ratio.

Thanks to its package of plates, the differential can widely vary the distribution of torque between the front and rear axles. If necessary, up to 70 percent can flow to the front or as much as 85 percent toward the tail end. The 40:60 ratio of the standard rear-biased configuration ensures sporty handling.

This new differential operates in conjunction with electronic torque vectoring, which affects all four wheels. If one of the inside wheels becomes imbalanced while the vehicle is at its operational limits, then the system slightly decelerates the wheel to obviate wheel spin. This results in terrific traction on the one hand while generating a yaw moment which aids cornering.

The RS5 is powered by a high-revving 4.2-liter V8 putting out 450hp @ 8250rpm and 318 lb-ft of torque at 4000rpm. Mated to a 7-speed S-Tronic transmission, the RS5 rips from 0-60mph in just 4.5 seconds and continues all the way up to 174mph if you nicely ask Audi to remove the limiter.