06/15/2026
The Audi RS7 Sportback, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Nissan Skyline GT-R, and BMW M4 represent four completely different automotive legends. The RS7 is a high-speed luxury missile, the S-Class is the king of luxury sedans, the R34 GT-R is one of the most famous Japanese performance cars ever built, and the BMW M4 is a modern sports coupe focused on driving performance. Each excels in a different area, making this comparison especially interesting.
The Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 immediately stands out because of its legendary status. Few cars have achieved the cultural impact of the R34. Its appearance in motorsport, movies, and video games turned it into an icon long before many enthusiasts ever saw one in person. The twin-turbo RB26 engine, advanced all-wheel-drive system, and immense tuning potential created a car that became a hero to an entire generation of performance-car enthusiasts. Even today, decades after production ended, the R34 remains one of the most respected sports cars in automotive history.
The Audi RS7 Sportback takes a much more modern approach. Underneath its elegant bodywork lies a twin-turbocharged V8 capable of delivering astonishing acceleration. The RS7 combines supercar-like straight-line performance with luxury, practicality, and all-weather capability. Unlike many sports cars, it can comfortably transport passengers and luggage while still outrunning many dedicated performance machines. It feels like a luxury executive vehicle with the heart of a supercar.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class enters the comparison from an entirely different direction. The S-Class is not primarily about speed or aggressive handling. Instead, it represents the highest level of luxury, comfort, and technology that Mercedes-Benz can offer. Every generation introduces innovations that eventually spread throughout the automotive industry. Sitting inside an S-Class feels more like sitting in a luxury lounge than a conventional car. It prioritizes refinement above everything else.
The BMW M4 serves as the enthusiast's modern sports coupe. BMW designed the M4 to deliver strong performance, precise handling, and everyday usability. The car feels agile, responsive, and eager to be driven enthusiastically. Unlike the S-Class, which focuses on comfort, or the RS7, which balances luxury and speed, the M4 places the driver at the center of the experience.
Performance creates an intense battle between the RS7, R34, and M4. The RS7 is brutally quick thanks to its powerful twin-turbocharged V8 and advanced all-wheel-drive system. The M4 is extremely capable and often feels lighter and more agile. The R34 may have lower factory power figures than modern competitors, but its legendary tuning potential allows modified examples to achieve astonishing performance levels. The S-Class is quick in many versions, but outright speed is not its primary purpose.
Handling strongly favors the BMW M4. The chassis feels balanced, the steering is direct, and the car constantly encourages spirited driving. The R34 GT-R follows closely because of its advanced all-wheel-drive system and motorsport-inspired engineering. The RS7 handles remarkably well for a large luxury vehicle, but its size is always noticeable. The S-Class prioritizes comfort rather than cornering capability.
Engine character is fascinating because all four vehicles have distinct personalities. The R34's RB26 engine is legendary among enthusiasts and has become one of the most respected performance engines ever produced. The RS7's twin-turbo V8 delivers immense torque and effortless speed. The M4's turbocharged powerplant combines strong performance with modern efficiency. The S-Class focuses on smoothness and refinement rather than excitement.
Luxury is an easy victory for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Few vehicles on Earth provide the same level of comfort, technology, and refinement. The RS7 follows closely because it combines luxury with high performance. The BMW M4 offers a premium interior but focuses more on sportiness. The R34 comes from an era when performance mattered more than luxury.
Road presence is a fascinating battle. The S-Class commands respect through elegance and prestige. The RS7 combines aggression and sophistication. The M4 looks athletic and purposeful. The R34 GT-R attracts attention from enthusiasts in a way few vehicles can match. Car enthusiasts often become more excited seeing an R34 than seeing cars worth several times as much.
The Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 feels like a legend that transcends numbers and specifications. Its reputation, motorsport heritage, and tuning potential make it one of the most beloved performance cars ever created.
The Audi RS7 Sportback feels like the ultimate all-rounder. It combines luxury, practicality, and astonishing performance in a package that can do almost everything.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class feels like the benchmark luxury sedan. It prioritizes comfort, prestige, and innovation above all else.
The BMW M4 feels like the driver's choice. It delivers engaging handling, strong performance, and everyday usability in one focused package.
For luxury, comfort, prestige, and technology, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the winner.
For versatility, practicality, and all-around performance, the Audi RS7 Sportback is the winner.
For handling, driver engagement, and modern sports-coupe performance, the BMW M4 is the winner.
For heritage, enthusiast appeal, tuning potential, and legendary status, the Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 is the winner.
The R34 takes first place because it has become more than just a car. It is a global automotive icon whose reputation continues to grow decades after production ended. The RS7 finishes second because it offers perhaps the best combination of speed, luxury, and practicality. The S-Class remains the undisputed king of luxury, while the BMW M4 remains one of the finest driver's cars available today. Among enthusiasts, however, the Skyline GT-R R34 occupies a special place that few automobiles in history have ever achieved.
