It was only a matter of time, folks. As soon as Audi finalized its purchase of the Ducati brand, we knew to expect a slew of comparison tests pitting the German automaker's finest wares against the two-wheeled exotica rolling out of Italy's best-known motorcycle maker.
The scribes from Germany's Auto Bild have indeed taken up the challenge. But what machinery to choose? Naturally, the mind first turns to the R8 supercar and its Lamborghini-derived V10 engine, but, in reality, Audi officials have conceded to us that its 360-horsepower TT RS is actually quicker around most race tracks. So, the all-wheel-drive TT RS Plus it is.
Holding the mantle for Ducati is none other than the 1199 Panigale – an easy choice, as this is the marque's premier superbike for 2012. Sure, there was a replica MotoGP machine a few years back called the Desmosedici RR, but that bike is sold out and the Panigale is likely faster in the hands of all but the most talented riders anyway.
So, who wins? You'll have to scroll down and watch the video to find out, but suffice it to say that it wasn't even close.
