The Audi RS 6 (4B, C5) 4.2 BiTurbo V8, produced between April 2002 and September 2004, represents the first generation of Audi’s high-performance RS 6 model. Based on the Audi A6 (C5) platform, the RS 6 was designed to blend luxury, practicality, and blistering performance. This variant, equipped with the 4.2-liter BiTurbo V8 engine and a five-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, was positioned as the flagship performance model within the C5 A6 range, offering a more accessible entry point to the RS 6 experience compared to the six-speed manual option. It aimed to deliver the power and prestige of the RS brand to a wider audience who preferred the convenience of an automatic gearbox.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | RS6 |
| Generation | RS 6 (4B,C5) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.2 BiTurbo V8 (450 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | April, 2002 |
| End of production | September, 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 21.8 l/100 km (10.8 US mpg, 13 UK mpg, 4.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.4 l/100 km (22.6 US mpg, 27.2 UK mpg, 9.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 14.6 l/100 km (16.1 US mpg, 19.3 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 350 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 17.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.1 kg/Hp, 244.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm, 304.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 450 Hp @ 5700-6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 560 Nm @ 1950-5500 rpm (413.03 lb.-ft. @ 1950-5500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | BCY |
| 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 | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 5 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2380 kg (5247 lbs.) |
| Max load | 540 kg (1190.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 424 l (14.97 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 82 l (21.66 US gal | 18.04 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4858 mm (191.26 in.) |
| Width | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Height | 1387-1426 mm (54.61 – 56.14 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2759 mm (108.62 in.) |
| Front track | 1578 mm (62.13 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| 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 | 255/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the RS 6 is the 4.2-liter V8 engine, designated BCY. This engine utilizes twin turbochargers with intercoolers to deliver a substantial 450 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. The engine employs multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The BiTurbo setup provides a broad torque curve, minimizing turbo lag and delivering strong acceleration throughout the rev range. The five-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, while offering convenience, was programmed for quicker shifts in the ‘Sport’ mode, and also allowed for manual gear selection. This transmission is known for its robustness but can be susceptible to wear with aggressive driving.
Driving Characteristics
The RS 6 4.2 BiTurbo Tiptronic offered a unique driving experience. While not as raw or engaging as the six-speed manual version, the automatic transmission provided smooth and relatively quick gear changes. The quattro all-wheel-drive system ensured excellent traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The car’s substantial torque allowed for effortless cruising and rapid overtaking. However, the Tiptronic transmission, while improved over earlier iterations, could sometimes feel hesitant during aggressive downshifts. Compared to the standard A6 models, the RS 6 offered a significantly firmer ride and more direct steering, enhancing its sporty character.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The RS 6 came generously equipped as standard. Interior features included Recaro sport seats upholstered in Nappa leather, carbon fiber trim, and a sport steering wheel. Standard exterior features included a unique RS 6 body kit, including aggressive front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and a rear spoiler. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded sound system, and various customization options for interior trim and exterior paint colors. The Tiptronic variant often included paddle shifters for more convenient manual gear selection.
Chassis & Braking
The RS 6 featured a sport-tuned suspension with stiffer springs and dampers compared to the standard A6. The front suspension utilized an independent multi-link setup, while the rear employed a double wishbone configuration. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The RS 6 also benefited from a more robust stabilizer bars to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The RS 6 4.2 BiTurbo Tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its potent performance, luxurious interior, and all-weather capability. However, some critics noted that the Tiptronic transmission didn’t fully exploit the engine’s potential, and the fuel economy was predictably poor. Compared to the manual version, the Tiptronic offered a more relaxed driving experience but sacrificed some driver engagement. Against competitors like the BMW M5 (E39), the RS 6 offered a unique blend of performance and practicality, appealing to buyers who wanted a high-performance sedan with all-wheel-drive security.
Legacy
The RS 6 (C5) established Audi’s reputation for building high-performance, all-weather grand tourers. The 4.2 BiTurbo V8 engine, while complex, proved to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. Today, the RS 6 (C5) is a sought-after classic among enthusiasts, with well-maintained examples commanding premium prices. The Tiptronic transmission, while requiring more diligent maintenance than the manual version, remains a viable option for those seeking a comfortable and capable high-performance sedan. The car’s blend of luxury, performance, and practicality continues to resonate with drivers today, solidifying its place as a landmark model in Audi’s history.
