The Audi S4 Cabriolet (8E/B7) 4.2i V8, produced from August 2004 to June 2008, represented the high-performance convertible offering within the B7 generation of the Audi A4 family. Positioned as the open-top variant of the S4 sedan, it combined the potent 4.2-liter V8 engine with Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system and a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. This combination aimed to deliver a blend of exhilarating performance and comfortable open-air motoring, appealing to buyers seeking a premium sports convertible experience. The B7 generation, while a refinement of the earlier B6, brought styling updates and mechanical improvements, solidifying the S4 Cabriolet’s place in the luxury performance segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | S4 |
| Generation | S4 Cabriolet (8E,B7) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.2i V8 40V (344 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | August, 2004 |
| End of production | June, 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 18.2 l/100 km (12.9 US mpg, 15.5 UK mpg, 5.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.6 l/100 km (18.7 US mpg, 22.4 UK mpg, 7.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 302 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.5 kg/Hp, 181.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 216.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 344 Hp @ 7000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 410 Nm @ 3500 rpm (302.4 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | BBK |
| Engine displacement | 4163 cm3 (254.04 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 5 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1895 kg (4177.76 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2355 kg (5191.89 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 246 l (8.69 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 315 l (11.12 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 UK gal) |
| Length | 4573 mm (180.04 in.) |
| Width | 1777 mm (69.96 in.) |
| Height | 1391 mm (54.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1522 mm (59.92 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1518 mm (59.76 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| 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 | 235/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S4 Cabriolet was the BBK engine, a 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine, a descendant of the unit first seen in the Audi RS4, featured a 90-degree V-angle and utilized a five-valve-per-cylinder DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) configuration. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, ensuring precise fuel metering for optimal performance and efficiency. The engine produced 344 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 302 lb-ft of torque at 3500 rpm. Paired with this engine was a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, which allowed for both fully automatic operation and driver-selectable manual shifts. The Tiptronic transmission was designed to provide smooth and responsive gear changes, complementing the V8’s power delivery. Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system distributed power to all four wheels, enhancing traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The S4 Cabriolet 4.2i with the Tiptronic transmission offered a distinct driving experience compared to its manual transmission counterparts. While the manual version provided a more engaging and direct connection to the engine, the Tiptronic offered a more relaxed and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved in around 5.9 seconds, and the car had a governed top speed of 155 mph. The Tiptronic transmission, while quick-shifting, did introduce a slight loss of power compared to the manual, but the convenience and ease of use were appealing to many drivers. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provided excellent grip and stability, inspiring confidence in various driving conditions. The suspension, tuned for a balance between comfort and performance, delivered a relatively compliant ride without sacrificing handling precision.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S4 Cabriolet came well-equipped as standard, reflecting its premium positioning. Standard features typically included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and xenon headlights. Optional extras included navigation system, sport seats with more aggressive bolstering, and a wind deflector to reduce turbulence in the cabin with the top down. The interior featured aluminum trim accents and S4-specific badging, reinforcing the car’s sporty character. Exterior styling cues included a unique front bumper with integrated fog lights, side skirts, a rear spoiler, and quad exhaust outlets.
Chassis & Braking
The S4 Cabriolet utilized a fully independent suspension system, with a multi-link setup at the front and a trapezoidal-link arrangement at the rear. This configuration provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling precision. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with hydraulic power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S4 Cabriolet 4.2i Tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and sophisticated interior. However, some reviewers noted that the Tiptronic transmission, while smooth, didn’t offer the same level of engagement as the manual gearbox. Compared to the 3.0-liter V6 S4 models, the 4.2i offered significantly more power and a more refined driving experience, but at a higher price point. Fuel economy was a notable drawback, with combined fuel consumption averaging around 18.7 US mpg. Reliability was generally good, although preventative maintenance, particularly regarding the timing chain tensioners, was recommended.
Legacy
The Audi S4 Cabriolet (8E/B7) 4.2i V8 remains a desirable used car today, particularly among enthusiasts seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and open-air driving enjoyment. The BBK V8 engine is known for its durability and strong power delivery, although regular maintenance is crucial to prevent potential issues. The Tiptronic transmission, while not as sought after as the manual, offers a more accessible and comfortable driving experience for many buyers. Values for well-maintained examples have remained relatively stable, reflecting the car’s enduring appeal and the growing interest in modern classic Audis.
