Can today’s quickest hatchback, the updated, 328-hp 2025 Golf R, beat the trio of German compact sport sedans from 2008: the 414-hp BMW M3, the 420-hp Audi RS4, and the 451-hp Mercedes C63 AMG.

It’s turbo 2.0-liter versus naturally aspirated V-8!

Today’s Golf R has all-wheel drive and a hard-launching dual-clutch automatic — and it’s going up against two six-speed manuals: the 4.0-liter M3 and 4.2-liter RS4, along with one rear-drive conventional torque-converter automatic in the Mercedes C63.

The Mercedes M156 6.2-liter is a monster, making 443 lb-ft of torque.
The famed BMW S65 makes just 295 lb-ft, the same as the Golf R!
And the Audi RS4’s 4.0-liter FSI engine made 317 lb-ft.

Can yesterday’s “peak” sport sedans keep up with today’s hottest hatch? Watch the race to find out. For more content like this one follow us also on Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram!