The Audi S6 (4A, C4) 2.2i 20V Turbo quattro Automatic, produced between June 1994 and July 1997, represents a compelling blend of performance and luxury within the C4 generation of Audi’s flagship sedan. Positioned as a high-performance variant of the Audi 100, the S6 aimed to deliver a more engaging driving experience while maintaining the comfort and refinement expected of a luxury vehicle. This particular configuration, pairing the 2.2-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine with a four-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system, occupied a middle ground in the S6 lineup, offering a balance between outright speed and everyday usability. It served as an alternative to the more driver-focused manual transmission options and the later, more powerful V6 models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | S6 |
| Generation | S6 (4A,C4) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2i 20V Turbo (230 Hp) quattro Automatic |
| Start of production | June, 1994 |
| End of production | July, 1997 |
| 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) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 236 km/h (146.64 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.3 kg/Hp, 136.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 207.7 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, Longitudinal |
| 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 |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1685 kg (3714.79 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2235 kg (4927.33 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%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 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 | 1556 mm (61.26 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1525 mm (60.04 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 2.2i quattro Automatic is the AAN engine, a 2.2-liter inline five-cylinder powerplant. This engine is a descendant of the legendary five-cylinder engines used in earlier Audi rally cars, known for their robust construction and potential for modification. The AAN features a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder head with 20 valves (four per cylinder), and a sophisticated Bosch Motronic engine management system. Crucially, it employs a Garrett T25 turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output to 230 horsepower and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. Fuel delivery is handled by a multi-port fuel injection system. The four-speed automatic transmission, a ZF 4HP22 unit, was chosen for its smoothness and reliability, though it doesn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as a manual gearbox.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.2i turbo engine, even with the automatic transmission, provides brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint takes around 7.7 seconds, and top speed is electronically limited to 146.64 mph. While not as explosively quick as later S6 models with larger displacement engines, the 2.2i offers a broad torque curve, making it responsive in everyday driving situations. The automatic transmission, while smooth, does result in some power loss compared to the manual versions. Gear ratios are tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, particularly in inclement weather, enhancing stability and confidence.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S6 2.2i quattro Automatic came reasonably well-equipped as standard. Interior features typically included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, climate control, and a high-quality sound system. Exterior features included alloy wheels, a subtle rear spoiler, and unique S6 badging. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded sound systems, and metallic paint finishes. The interior trim was generally conservative, reflecting Audi’s focus on understated luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 S6 utilizes an independent suspension setup, with McPherson struts at the front and a trapezoidal link rear suspension. This configuration provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The car is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. Stabilizer bars are fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering. The chassis was designed to handle the increased power output of the S6 models, offering a more planted and controlled feel compared to the standard Audi 100.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S6 2.2i quattro Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined interior, comfortable ride, and strong performance. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission dulled the driving experience compared to the manual versions. Compared to the later 4.2-liter V6 S6 models, the 2.2i offered a more affordable entry point into the S6 range, but with less outright power. Fuel economy was reasonable for a performance sedan of its era, averaging around 22 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although the turbocharger and associated components required regular maintenance.
Legacy
The Audi S6 (4A, C4) 2.2i 20V Turbo quattro Automatic remains a desirable classic car today. The AAN engine is highly regarded by enthusiasts for its durability and tuning potential. Well-maintained examples are becoming increasingly rare and valuable. While the automatic transmission may not be preferred by purists, it offers a more accessible and comfortable driving experience for many owners. The car’s combination of performance, luxury, and all-wheel-drive capability continues to appeal to enthusiasts seeking a unique and rewarding driving experience. Finding parts can sometimes be a challenge, but a dedicated aftermarket and strong online communities support owners in keeping these cars on the road.
