The Audi A1 and Audi SQ7 are very different. However, the new Carwow video pits the two against each other in a series of indoor ski slope drag races. The SUV starts with summer tires, while the hatchback comes with winter tires, giving the A1 at least one advantage over the more powerful SQ7.
Audi A1 has a 1.0 liter three-cylinder engine that drives the front wheels. It produces 110 horsepower (80 kilowatts) and 147 pound-feet (200 Newton-meters) of torque, weighing only 2,491 pounds (1,130 kilograms). The all-wheel-drive Audi SQ7 has a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine that develops 507 hp (372 kW) and 567 lb-ft (770 Nm) of torque. It weighs up to 4,993 lbs (2,265 kg).
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The first race up the snowy ski slopes is relatively easy for the A1. The hatch over the hill and over the cone, leaving SQ7 at the bottom. The SUV struggled for traction, barely moving from its starting position and losing. In the second race, the SQ7 took a gentler approach, slowly leaving the starting line and making progress up the hill. However, about halfway through, the SUV slowed, struggled for traction, and slid back down the slope, sliding into the foam cushions at the bottom. Thankfully, the collision did no damage.
The SQ7 switched to winter tires for its third race, a game changer for the SUV. Big Audis launch off the line, their tires spinning and throwing snow as they dig for traction. It remained the same as the A1 until about halfway up the hill before SQ7 was able to drive forward, crossing the finish line first.
All-wheel drive is great, but tires are still important, as shown in drag racing. The SQ7 struggled on its summer tires compared to the Audi A1, but the switch to winter rubber helped the burly SUV get up on the slopes. It will eventually work its way to the top. All that power under the SQ7’s hood is useless if the vehicle can’t find the traction to put it on the ground.
