PASADENA, Calif. – Strap on the helmet, open the 2007 Audi RS 4’s heavy driver’s door, and slide into the Recaro bucket seat onto the firm cushions and past the stiff bolsters. Adjust the silver-trimmed exterior mirrors with the button on the door panel, check the rearview mirror, and use the power seat adjustments to get comfortable while putting the aluminum pedals and the leather-and-alloy shift knob within easy reach. After a practice row through all six gears, learn that grabbing second gear puts your elbow into your ribcage. Properly position the steering wheel, and then crank the key. Take a second just to enjoy the V8’s rumble, and then depress the S button on the instrument panel to open up the exhaust for a louder note. Rev the engine, watch the tach climb to redline, and listen to the unencumbered song of 420 horses ready for you to drop the hammer. Mr. Track Guy looks you in the eye, you both look to the end of pit lane, and your peripheral vision catches his arm drop, symbolizing that all systems are go. You’re up, junior…

You’ll have to read Page 5 for more details on what it’s like to flog a 420-horsepower, all-wheel-drive German sedan wearing Pirelli PZero tires on a track, but here’s a hint: Chances are this car’s limits far surpass your own. Available for comparison was a respectable ride in its own right, the 340-horsepower Audi S4. However, after several laps in the RS 4, the S4 felt less powerful, less hunkered down and secure in the corners, and less stable barreling full bore down the straights. The S4 is a remarkable ride, but the RS 4 makes it feel like a Hyundai. Apparently, an extra $20,000 buys more than fancy bodywork and carbon-fiber trim. Commuters will be happy to know the RS 4 is also a competent daily driver, except for issues with rear seat room and a stiff ride. Thankfully, neither point is a concern when throttle-steering around a corner on a closed course.