Long Wait: First Audi TT-RS Delivered For U.S Market

Waiting for something can be the hardest part - and this writer isn't exactly the most patient guy in the world. Audi first showed off its TT-RS back in March of 2009, at the Geneva Motor Show. Then, the car was destined only for the European market.

In 2010 Audi decided to really listen to enthusiasts, and after a "petition campaign" in August, in September the TT-RS was given a green light for sale in the United States.

Now, over three years after introduction the first TT-RS has arrived. As is the case with a lot of new car launches, Audi delivered the car to a more high-profile buyer, Don Istook.

He is a veteran race driver with experience racing Audis. He gives a ringing endorsement: “Superb brakes and handling go right along with the magnificent power from the 2.5-liter turbo, especially the low end torque....it reminds me of the mid 80's when we raced the original 5 cylinder turbo Audi Quattro. What is great, though, is that I get all of that, yet I have the refinement, sophistication and technology of a truly modern sports car."

Its perfect press release material! Istook even let his local dealer, Forth Worth Audi, keep the car longer due to "marquee interest" from consumers about the return of the RS. If it was us, we wouldn't have been so nice!