Audi RS 5 DTM 

How many other coupes are fitted with a naturally aspirated jewel of an engine that delivers power in a manner as silky as its exhaust note?

Unlike its siblings, offered with manual or automatic gearboxes, the all-aluminum direct-injected engine is mated to a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission.

Unlike the stellar TT RS, which is available in the U.S. solely with a six-speed manual, the RS5’s only gearbox is a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

The 4.2-liter direct-injected V-8 isn't defined by its 450 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque as much as it is by its stratospheric redline of 8500 rpm.

On the other hand we’ve also got a supremely competent, though mostly unexciting chassis, which would be best exploited with a relaxing, torque-strong motor.

Heat-resistant ceramic front brakes, measuring 15 inches, are a $6,000 option best for anyone who expects to put in a lot of track time.

But while it won't set any benchmarks in handling clarity and driver involvement, it is nevertheless quite enjoyable on the road.

It's not hard to feel Audi's motorsport pedigree in the RS5's responses, because the handling balance is a great compromise between stability and responsiveness.

Audi has seen fit to make the RS5’s steering sharper and more involving.

Perhaps more accurately, the R8’s V-8 might wish it were this V-8.

When you consider the extra plumbing, the more complex exhaust system, and the additional cooling requirement, the weight penalty of the V-8 shrinks to less than 40 pounds.

It is more powerful than the R8’s V-8 by virtue of the lessons learned from the 5.2-liter V-10.

While I would happily pay for the joys of the RS5 over the more affordable S5, the $9,000 premium required for the convertible is one that's too dear considering my proclivity for coupes.

Multiple personality operation has become de rigueur in high-end sport sedans and coupes, and this car is no exception.

Add all the options and it's possible to build a nearly $90,000 2013 Audi RS 5 coupe and even higher-priced convertible variant.