We recently reported that leaked vehicle chassis codes for the new Audi RS6 specced the output from its twin-turbo V10 engine at 571hp (426kW). Recent information from a source at Audi, however, has put this figure in doubt. The reliable source claims that the 571hp will only be the specified figure Audi will market the car with. True output will be upwards of 600hp, with 610hp (455kW) pegged as the most likely figure. It looks like Audi is taking no chances with the ultimate “wolf in sheep’s clothing” model and even BMW’s excellent V10 motor will struggle to compete with this kind of power output.

To give you an idea of just how high this figure is, the RS6 will churn out more horses than the Corvette Z06, BMW M6, Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera, Ferrari F430 Scuderia, Aston Martin DBS, Porsche 911 GT2, and even Mercedes’ epic bi-turbo V12 CL65 AMG.

While we’re always happy to see manufacturers pushing the limit, surely there comes a time when outright power figures get out of control. The previous RS6 wasn’t a slow car by any stretch of the imagination, but the new model will likely become the most practical supercar ever made. At least owners will have a full-time AWD system to help keep them out of trouble.