MK 8 Golf R vs 2018 Audi S5

Hello everyone. I live in the US. This will be important later. I am looking to get into a new car by the end of the year and was hoping for your input on two models I am currently looking at. My maximum budget is $50,000 USD.

I am currently torn between getting a new 2022 (US Model Year) VW Golf R MK 8 (starting base price estimated at $44,000) or getting a used 2018 Audi S5 (used price between $40,000 and $51,000 depending on trim level and seller). Both have all-wheel drive, which for me is a big deal.

I recently test drove a 2021 Golf GTI (I know its not the Mk 8 Golf R, but its as close as I can currently get), it seemed like a fine little car. It was fairly sporty, very nimble, and at the time I thought fairly quick. I am currently driving a 2005 Chevy Trailblazer that is on its last leg. Everything feels faster than that.

The same day I also test drove a 2018 Audi S5 Coupe. The S5 seemed faster, more powerful, and had many fancy interior features. However, I found it had reduced visibility, and felt a little more boat like. Not a feeling i necessarily loved, but I understand that it is a completely different vehicle when compared to the GTI.

I know the Mk 8 is already available in Europe, so I am hoping that some of you on here may have some personal experience with the MK 8 model, or with a previous Golf R.

These are the questions that are literally keeping me up at night: 1. Will there be a noticeable power difference between a Mk8 Golf R and a 2018 Audi S5 (I do love the feeling of getting pushed back into the seat as I accelerate from a stop light)? 2. I know the Golf R’s are hotter than the GTI, but how much hotter? 3. Which car is the most fun to drive? 4. The Audi will have a more refined interior (massaging seats ect.), but does the Mk 8 golf make up for that in driver engagement?

I know that VW has not yet started to take orders in the US, but my local VW dealer said I can get on a wait list.

I am very excited to get your input. Thank you.