In 2025, Audi celebrates 50 years since the debut of its first five-cylinder engine—a technology that later became a hallmark of the brand. To mark the anniversary, students from the Audi vocational training program in Neckarsulm have created a unique track prototype, the GT50, using a production RS3 as the donor platform. Currently, the RS3 is the only Audi model that can be purchased new with an inline-five engine.
The GT50’s construction is based on a spaceframe made of round steel tubes. The body is crafted from lightweight composites and styled after the classic Audi 80: clean lines, simple shapes, a long hood. A massive integrated splitter is installed at the front, reminiscent of the aerodynamic solutions found on IMSA GTO and TransAm sport prototypes. At the rear, there is a large spoiler with a significant angle of attack.
The lighting deserves special mention: the front and rear lights form a cross. This is a direct nod to past endurance racing, where headlights were taped over in a cross pattern to prevent glass shards from scattering onto the track in case of contact.
Under the hood of the GT50 lies the 2.5-liter EA855 turbo engine, known from the RS3. It produces 401 horsepower and retains the signature sound and character of the inline-five.