ABT Sportsline, the world’s largest automotive aftermarket and performance parts specialist for Audi and VW, impresses its fans again and again with its limited-edition special models. For the company’s 125th anniversary in 2021, the Johann Abt Signature Edition represents a new benchmark. The special series is limited to 64 cars and is a homage to the company’s founder. In 1896, Johann Abt laid the foundation for today’s international company with his blacksmith’s workshop that became famous for innovative solutions. A highlight of each model of the elaborately reworked Audi RS6 is a time capsule with a piece of his original anvil. Johann Abt’s original signature is a central feature throughout the design of the collector’s piece: inside and out. The powerful vehicle delivers 800 HP (589 kW) and 980 Nm and is truly individual, with many unique solutions. “Customer interest exceeded all expectations”, explains CEO Hans-Jürgen Abt. All 64 cars were sold in record time – the first vehicles will be delivered in July. Due to the extremely complex manufacturing, only 6 cars per month will be built. “Each individual car’s conversion will be overseen by a motorsport mechanic – truly exceptional. One man, one vehicle – from start to finish”, Hans-Jürgen Abt enthuses.

The bodywork scores with the unique carbon structure Signature Carbon Red, featuring an integrated red metal thread. Alongside other components, the air inlets, front lip, rear skirt and even the 22-inch forged wheels have been specially developed for the Johann Abt Signature Edition. The ingenious ABT aero package is not just a spectacular eye-catcher, but also provides an extra 150 kg of downthrust at the rear axle. The aerodynamic setup provides the foundation for an amazing performance upgrade*, that unleashes a further 200 HP (148 kW) from the standard model. This is achieved by utilising specially developed turbochargers and the high-tech control unit ABT Engine Control (AEC). The Avant with a top speed of 330 km/h reaches 0-100 km/h in 2.91 seconds: 0.69 seconds faster than a standard RS 6.

You fall in love all over again every time you get into this collectors’ piece: Not only because of the ABT halo projection with watermark signature, the time capsule, the back-lit emblem strip with consecutive numbering and the hand-sewn sport seats, but also because of the countless small details. Many of these are in Signature carbon Red and feature the signature of Johann Abt. Because at the end of the 19th century, his name stood for innovative spirit and quality – values that continue to define ABT Sportsline.

*The engine performance data is in accordance with the stipulations of EWG/80/1269. The process and dynamometer manufacturer have been certified and authorised by the vehicle manufacturer. For further details, visit www.abt-sportsline.com/performance-measurement.