The Audi S6 (4A, C4) 4.2i V8 32V quattro Automatic, produced between September 1994 and October 1997, represents a high-performance iteration of the C4-generation Audi A6. Positioned as the flagship performance sedan within the A6 range, the S6 aimed to deliver a blend of luxury, refinement, and exhilarating performance. It was a key model in establishing Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system as a benchmark in the premium sedan segment, particularly in European markets where it competed with BMW’s 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz’s E-Class. The C4 platform, also underpinning the Audi 100, provided a solid foundation for the S6’s enhanced capabilities.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | S6 |
| Generation | S6 (4A,C4) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.2i V8 32V (290 Hp) quattro Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 1994 |
| End of production | October, 1997 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 17.7 l/100 km (13.3 US mpg / 16 UK mpg / 5.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg / 32.1 UK mpg / 11.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 249 km/h (154.72 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6 kg/Hp, 166.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 229.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 290 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 4000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | AEC |
| Engine displacement | 4172 cm3 (254.59 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt / 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt / 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1740 kg (3836.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2290 kg (5048.59 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 510 l (18.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal / 17.6 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1950 kg (4299.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4797 mm (188.86 in.) |
| Width | 1804 mm (71.02 in.) |
| Height | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2692 mm (105.98 in.) |
| Front track | 1563 mm (61.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1528 mm (60.16 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/50 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S6 4.2i is the AEC engine, a 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine, a descendant of Audi’s long-running V8 lineage, featured a 90-degree V-angle and a 32-valve dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) cylinder head. The engine utilized Bosch Motronic fuel injection and management system, delivering precise control over fuel delivery and ignition timing. The 4.2L V8 produced 290 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission, specifically designed to handle the V8’s output and deliver smooth shifts. This transmission, while not as technologically advanced as some later automatics, was robust and reliable.
Driving Characteristics
The S6 4.2i Automatic offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to the standard A6 models. While the automatic transmission didn’t provide the direct engagement of a manual gearbox, it delivered respectable acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.7 seconds. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions, making the S6 a capable year-round performer. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance between acceleration and fuel efficiency, but the emphasis was clearly on providing effortless cruising and responsive power delivery. Compared to the later S6 variants with manual transmissions or the more powerful V8 engines, the 4.2i Automatic felt less overtly sporty, prioritizing comfort and usability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S6 4.2i Automatic came generously equipped as standard. Interior features typically included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium sound system, and automatic climate control. Exterior features included unique S6 badging, alloy wheels, and a subtle rear spoiler. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded sound systems, and metallic paint finishes. The interior trim was generally executed in dark wood or carbon fiber accents, reflecting the car’s sporty yet luxurious character.
Chassis & Braking
The S6 featured a refined chassis designed to complement its performance capabilities. The suspension utilized independent McPherson struts at the front and an independent trapezoidal link setup at the rear, with coil springs and anti-roll bars. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, augmented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The suspension was tuned to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining good body control during cornering. Compared to the standard A6, the S6 often featured slightly stiffer springs and dampers for improved handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi S6 4.2i Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, all-wheel-drive traction, and luxurious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission lacked the engagement of a manual gearbox and that the car’s weight slightly hampered its agility. Compared to the 2.2-liter turbocharged five-cylinder models, the S6 offered significantly more power and torque, but at the expense of fuel economy. Compared to the later S6 models with more advanced transmissions and engine technologies, the 4.2i Automatic represented a more traditional approach to performance.
Legacy
The Audi S6 (4A, C4) 4.2i V8 32V quattro Automatic remains a sought-after classic among Audi enthusiasts. The AEC V8 engine, while not the most fuel-efficient, is known for its durability and smooth power delivery. The quattro all-wheel-drive system continues to be a hallmark of Audi performance cars. Well-maintained examples of the S6 4.2i Automatic are becoming increasingly rare and valuable, representing a piece of Audi’s performance heritage. Common issues with these vehicles often relate to age-related wear and tear on suspension components, cooling system parts, and electrical systems. However, with proper maintenance, these cars can provide many years of reliable and enjoyable driving.
