The Audi S4 (4A, C4) 2.2i Turbo quattro Automatic, produced between August 1991 and July 1994, represents a pivotal moment in Audi’s performance lineage. Positioned as the high-performance variant of the Audi 80/90 series (marketed as the Audi 90 in North America), the S4 brought quattro all-wheel drive and turbocharged power to a more accessible luxury segment. This generation S4 was built on the B3/4 platform, internally designated 4A/C4, and served as a precursor to the more widely recognized B5 S4 that followed. The 2.2i Turbo with automatic transmission was a significant offering, balancing performance with ease of driving, though it wasn’t the most common configuration.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | S4 |
| Generation | S4 (4A,C4) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2i Turbo (230 Hp) quattro Automatic |
| Start of production | August, 1991 |
| End of production | July, 1994 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.1 l/100 km (14.6 US mpg, 17.5 UK mpg, 6.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg, 27.4 UK mpg, 9.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 239 km/h (148.51 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 142.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 217.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 230 Hp @ 5900 rpm |
| Power per litre | 103.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1950 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1950 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | AAN |
| Engine displacement | 2226 cm3 (135.84 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.4 mm (3.4 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1610 kg (3549.44 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2160 kg (4761.98 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) |
| Length | 4790 mm (188.58 in.) |
| Width | 1805 mm (71.06 in.) |
| Height | 1805 mm (71.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm (105.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.3 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S4 2.2i Turbo was the AAN engine, a 2.2-liter, inline-five cylinder powerplant. This engine was a significant departure from the naturally aspirated engines found in the standard Audi 80/90. The AAN featured a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head, incorporating a sophisticated Bosch Motronic engine management system. Fuel delivery was handled by multi-port fuel injection, and a large KKK turbocharger with an intercooler provided forced induction. The turbocharger boosted to approximately 0.8 bar (11.6 psi) of pressure. The engine’s 9.3:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and reliability. The automatic transmission used was a four-speed unit, designed to handle the engine’s 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. While robust, this transmission wasn’t as quick-shifting as the available five-speed manual, impacting acceleration times.
Driving Characteristics
The S4 2.2i Turbo Automatic offered a unique driving experience. While the automatic transmission smoothed out the power delivery, it did detract from the raw, sporty feel of the manual transmission equipped models. The 0-60 mph time of around 7.9 seconds was respectable for the early 1990s, but noticeably slower than the manual version. The quattro all-wheel drive system provided excellent traction, particularly in inclement weather, making the S4 a capable year-round performer. The turbocharger provided a noticeable surge of power in the mid-range, but turbo lag was present, requiring drivers to anticipate acceleration. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards comfortable cruising rather than outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S4 2.2i Turbo Automatic typically came well-equipped for its time. Standard features included power windows, power locks, central locking, and air conditioning. The interior featured sport seats upholstered in a unique patterned fabric, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio system, and heated front seats. The dashboard layout was typical of early 1990s Audis, with a functional and understated design. The automatic transmission selector was a traditional column shifter.
Chassis & Braking
The S4 featured a fully independent suspension, with MacPherson struts at the front and semi-trailing arms at the rear. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll. Brakes were ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The braking system was not particularly powerful by modern standards, but adequate for the car’s weight and performance. The quattro all-wheel drive system distributed power to all four wheels, enhancing stability and handling. The 215/60 R15 tires provided a good balance of grip and ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S4 2.2i Turbo Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its performance, handling, and luxurious interior. However, the automatic transmission was often criticized for detracting from the sporty driving experience. Compared to the manual transmission version, the automatic was slightly slower and less engaging. Compared to other performance sedans of the time, such as the BMW M3, the S4 offered a more comfortable ride and a more practical interior. Fuel economy was reasonable for a turbocharged car of this era, averaging around 22.8 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The Audi S4 (4A, C4) 2.2i Turbo Automatic holds a special place in Audi history as a pioneering performance sedan. The AAN engine is renowned for its durability and tunability, and many examples remain on the road today. The quattro all-wheel drive system cemented Audi’s reputation for all-weather performance. While the automatic transmission version isn’t as sought after as the manual, it remains a desirable classic for enthusiasts who appreciate its blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. Finding well-maintained examples can be challenging, and maintenance costs can be higher than for more common vehicles due to the complexity of the engine and drivetrain. However, the S4 2.2i Turbo Automatic continues to be a rewarding and enjoyable car to own and drive.
