Audi RS e-tron GT vs McLaren 570S
Compare the Audi RS e-tron GT vs McLaren 570S. The Audi RS e-tron GT is £20,000 cheaper. The McLaren 570S is 0.1s quicker to 60mph. The Audi RS e-tron GT is more fuel efficient. Full performance, cost & ownership breakdown.
The Audi RS e-tron GT is priced from £125,000, powered by a Dual Electric Motors, producing 637 hp, with 830 Nm of torque, reaching 0-62 mph in 3.3 s, a top speed of 155 mph, sent to the road via all-wheel drive. The McLaren 570S is priced from £95,000, powered by a 3.8L Twin-Turbo V8, producing 562 hp, with 600 Nm of torque, reaching 0-62 mph in 3.2 s, a top speed of 204 mph, sent to the road via rear-wheel drive.
The Audi RS e-tron GT offers a 350-litre boot, a usable front boot, folding rear seats, runs on electric, returns around 76 mpg, is covered by a 3 years / 60,000 miles (original UK cover; first 2 years unlimited) warranty. The McLaren 570S offers a 150-litre boot, a usable front boot, runs on petrol, returns around 24 mpg, is covered by a 3 years / unlimited miles (original UK new-car cover) warranty.
On cost of ownership, the Audi RS e-tron GT is £20,000 cheaper than its rival, the Audi RS e-tron GT costs less in annual maintenance (£1,000 versus £2,800), the Audi RS e-tron GT is the more fuel-efficient choice, the Audi RS e-tron GT has 83.7 kWh usable battery · 93.4 kWh gross battery, the McLaren 570S has 72 L fuel tank.
Driving Character: Audi RS e-tron GT vs McLaren 570S
The RS e-tron GT leverages 637 hp and instant electric torque to deliver breathtaking acceleration, pinning occupants to their seats with brutal efficiency. The low centre of gravity provided by the battery pack ensures the car remains impressively flat through corners, though the sheer weight of 5139 lbs is occasionally felt in tighter, technical transitions. It lacks the raw, emotive soundtrack of a combustion-engined rival, but compensates with a refined, futuristic chassis that makes covering ground effortless. The two-speed rear gearbox provides a unique mechanical feel, bridging the gap between electric immediacy and high-speed stability.
The McLaren 570S stands as the quintessential entry-level supercar, utilising a lightweight carbon fibre monocoque that provides unmatched structural rigidity. Its 3.8L twin-turbo V8 delivers 562 hp, propelling the car to 60 mph in a mere 3.1 seconds. The hydraulic-assisted steering is widely regarded as the benchmark for the segment, offering granular detail that feels missing in its competitors. While the engine displays noticeable turbo lag at lower rpm, the chassis balance is sublime, providing a sense of fluidity and poise that invites the driver to push harder through every apex with complete confidence.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Audi RS e-tron GT — Dual-motor EV with 637hp; 0–100 in 3.1s with silent, relentless delivery; the McLaren 570S — Most accessible McLaren; V8 with 562hp tuned for enjoyment over extremes. Characteristic of the Audi RS e-tron GT: Four-wheel steering available; actively improves cornering and parking ease. For the McLaren 570S: Balance and agility of McLaren platform available at a lower price tier. In outright terms it is 637 hp against 562 — a 75 hp gap — and the McLaren 570S reaches 60 mph 0.1s sooner.
Interior & Cabin: Audi RS e-tron GT vs McLaren 570S
The interior is a high-tech sanctuary, dominated by a driver-focused dashboard and the crisp Audi Virtual Cockpit. Sustainable materials are used throughout, reflecting a modern approach to luxury without compromising on build quality or feel. The digital interfaces are intuitive, though the reliance on touch-sensitive controls for certain functions can be less tactile than physical buttons while on the move. Space is ample for four adults, and the dual-screen setup creates a sophisticated, connected environment that feels perfectly suited for a high-performance electric tourer. It is a cabin that successfully blends traditional Audi craftsmanship with progressive, forward-thinking technology.
The cabin focuses on a minimalist, driver-centric design that eschews excessive ornamentation in favour of functional elegance. High-grade leather and Alcantara dress the interior, creating a cabin that feels both sophisticated and purposeful. The vertical infotainment screen is undeniably dated compared to modern rivals and can be unresponsive, which remains the system's primary weakness. Visibility is genuinely impressive, thanks to the thin A-pillars and the unique dihedral door design, which not only eases ingress but also makes the car feel like a significant event every time the driver settles into the cockpit.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Audi RS e-tron GT — Curved OLED display and digital interior class-leading at launch; the McLaren 570S — Dihedral doors; McLaren cockpit experience at more attainable price. Characteristic of the Audi RS e-tron GT: Four adult seats with genuine rear legroom; premium EV four-door. For the McLaren 570S: Sports Series interior practical by McLaren standards; reasonable storage.
Daily Usability: Audi RS e-tron GT vs McLaren 570S
Practicality is a strong suit for the RS e-tron GT, offering a 405L boot plus additional storage in the front trunk, making it an excellent daily prospect. The ride is firm in Dynamic mode but remains composed enough for long-distance cruising, absorbing motorway imperfections with ease. Charging is a simple affair, with fast-charging capabilities allowing for 80% replenishment in just over twenty minutes, significantly increasing the vehicle's real-world usability. It is a highly capable machine for routine errands and long-distance touring, provided the driver is aware of the low stance and the necessity of managing battery capacity on longer jaunts.
For a mid-engined supercar, the 570S is remarkably accommodating in day-to-day scenarios. The suspension setup is soft enough to handle urban speed bumps and undulating B-roads without breaking the driver’s spine, cementing its status as the most road-biased model in the McLaren stable. With a usable 150-litre rear boot and an additional front storage area, it manages supermarket runs and light luggage far better than its rivals. However, the low ride height makes parking kerbs a genuine hazard, necessitating the optional nose lift system to protect the front splitter from unnecessary and expensive damage.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Audi RS e-tron GT — 405L boot plus 84L frunk; 489L total — excellent for this class; the McLaren 570S — 150L boot and front storage make the 570S usable for solo touring. Characteristic of the Audi RS e-tron GT: Charging infrastructure well matched to long-distance grand touring. For the McLaren 570S: Comfort setting genuinely comfortable on motorway journeys. that means 350 litres of boot space against 150, and everyday running costs that favour the Audi RS e-tron GT at the pumps.
Ownership: Audi RS e-tron GT vs McLaren 570S
Ownership of this EV is relatively straightforward, as the simplicity of the electric drivetrain results in lower annual maintenance costs than its internal combustion rivals. The four-year, 50k mile warranty provides a solid foundation for peace of mind, though long-term battery health remains a key consideration for high-mileage users. The RS e-tron GT benefits from the extensive Audi dealer and charging network, making it one of the most accessible high-performance EVs on the market. While residual values for luxury EVs remain volatile, the model’s performance and build quality help maintain a solid market position among modern, tech-focused buyers.
As the gateway to the McLaren family, the 570S represents a balanced proposition for the aspiring supercar owner. Residuals have remained robust across the Sports Series, helped by a reputation for being the most usable model in the range. Maintenance is a significant consideration, with annual servicing costing around £2,800, and owners must be prepared for the specific costs associated with DCT transmission care. The McLaren network is comprehensive and highly professional, ensuring that support is readily available, though the high performance of the twin-turbo V8 means regular, proactive inspection is non-negotiable for long-term health.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Audi RS e-tron GT — Audi dealer network strong; RS e-tron GT benefits from broad coverage; the McLaren 570S — Entry point to McLaren ownership; strong performance-per-pound value. Characteristic of the Audi RS e-tron GT: Lower running costs versus petrol equivalents; EV servicing lighter. For the McLaren 570S: Wide used market availability; relatively accessible pricing tier. On the wallet the two diverge at £125,000 versus £95,000 — a £30,000 difference, with annual maintenance of £1,000 against £2,800, and warranty cover of 3 years / 60,000 miles (original UK cover; first 2 years unlimited) versus 3 years / unlimited miles (original UK new-car cover).