The Audi RS2 Avant (1994–1995) is the first Audi RS model: an 80 Avant with a 2.2-liter five-cylinder turbo tuned to 315 PS, assembled by Porsche in Zuffenhausen, with Porsche brakes, mirrors and wheels. It was never sold in the US. Every RS2 is now over 25 years old and legal to import.
Why Americans want it
It is the fast wagon that started everything, with a Porsche badge on the engine and the Brembo calipers. Roughly 2,900 were built. US buyers have paid $80,000–$150,000 at auction for the handful imported; the market is proven and the supply is in Europe.
What was never sold in the US
- Model: the entire RS2 line (B4 Avant; a tiny number of sedans were built, roughly four).
- Engine: 2.2 20-valve five-cylinder turbo (ADU), 315 PS at 6,500 rpm, roughly 302 lb-ft.
- Transmission: 6-speed manual, quattro permanent AWD with Torsen center differential.
- Years: March 1994 to July 1995, roughly 2,891 cars.
Eligible years (25-year rule)
Every RS2 is eligible now. Nothing switches over in 2027 or 2028. The S2 Coupe and S2 Avant (1991–1996), the RS2’s direct relatives, are also fully eligible.
What to look for
- Engine: turbo condition, boost leaks, the plastic coolant pipes and the known-weak lifters. Service history with timing belt and water pump dates is essential.
- Transmission: the 6-speed is strong; check the clutch and the center Torsen for noise.
- Rust: rear arches, the tailgate, the sunroof surround and the rear suspension mounts. Southern European cars are better.
- Originality: RS2-specific parts (Porsche Cup wheels, front bumper, mirrors, Recaro seats, instruments) are expensive; a complete car is worth the premium. We verify the VIN prefix (WUAZZZ8CZ…) and the Audi Tradition build record.
- Documents: Audi service book, original spec sheet, two keys.
Typical landed price
Europe: roughly €70,000–€120,000. Landed at Newark or Baltimore with duty at the rate in effect on entry: roughly $95,000–$160,000. Container freight standard.
Registration notes
- California: post-1975, gasoline; CARB lab certification applies, not guaranteed.
- Fuel: gasoline.
- Title: 17-character VIN. US title from Salvage Motors LLC.
Our take
Buy the most original RS2 you can afford, in Nogaro Blue if you can, and leave the tuning to others. Modified RS2s sell at a discount and are harder to insure at agreed value.
FAQ
How many RS2s were built?
Roughly 2,891 Avants, plus a handful of sedans.
What’s the difference from an S2 Avant?
85 more PS, Porsche brakes and wheels, a 6-speed, and the RS2 body parts. The S2 is about half the price and also eligible.
Does Audi still supply parts?
Audi Tradition supports many mechanical parts; RS2-specific trim is sourced used or reproduced.