The Audi S6 (4B, C5) 4.2 V8 quattro, produced between September 1999 and January 2005, represents the high-performance variant of the C5 generation Audi A6. Positioned above the standard A6 models, the S6 aimed to deliver a blend of luxury, practicality, and exhilarating performance. It served as a direct competitor to the BMW M5 and Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG, offering a sophisticated alternative within the executive sports sedan segment. This particular iteration, equipped with the 4.2-liter V8 engine and a six-speed manual transmission, was the flagship offering, representing the pinnacle of performance for the C5 S6 range.
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | S6 |
| Generation | S6 (4B,C5) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.2 V8 (340 Hp) quattro |
| Start of production | September, 1999 |
| End of production | January, 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 21 l/100 km (11.2 US mpg, 13.5 UK mpg, 4.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 14.1 l/100 km (16.7 US mpg, 20 UK mpg, 7.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 338 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.1 kg/Hp, 196 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 242.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 340 Hp @ 7000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 81.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 3400 rpm (309.78 lb.-ft. @ 3400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | ANK, AQJ |
| 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 | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1735 kg (3825.02 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2275 kg (5015.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 540 kg (1190.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 434 l (15.33 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 82 l (21.66 US gal | 18.04 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%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 85 kg (187.39 lbs.) |
| Length | 4833 mm (190.28 in.) |
| Width | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Height | 1443 mm (56.81 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2759 mm (108.62 in.) |
| Front track | 1578 mm (62.13 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1590 mm (62.6 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.68 m (38.32 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| 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 | 255/40 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S6 4.2 quattro is the ANK or AQJ engine code, a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter (4172 cc) V8 engine. This engine is a member of Audi’s long-running V8 family, known for its smoothness and robust construction. It features a 90-degree V-angle, contributing to its inherent balance. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The valvetrain employs double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with five valves per cylinder (four intake, one exhaust), optimizing airflow for increased power output. The 6-speed manual transmission, a Getrag unit, was the standard offering, providing precise gear changes and enhancing the driving experience. The quattro all-wheel-drive system, a hallmark of Audi performance models, distributes power between the front and rear axles, providing exceptional traction and stability in all weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The S6 4.2 quattro delivers a distinctly engaging driving experience. The 340 horsepower and 309.78 lb-ft of torque provide strong acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 5.4 seconds. The six-speed manual transmission allows for full control over the engine’s powerband. While not as brutally fast as some of its competitors, the S6 offers a more refined and balanced driving experience. The quattro all-wheel-drive system inspires confidence, particularly in challenging road conditions. The suspension, tuned for performance, provides a firm but comfortable ride. Compared to the standard A6 models, the S6 offers significantly improved acceleration and handling. The manual transmission provides a more direct connection to the engine than the optional automatic, favored by enthusiasts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S6 4.2 quattro came generously equipped as standard. Interior features included sport seats upholstered in leather, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and wood trim accents. Standard equipment also included automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and power-adjustable front seats. Optional extras included navigation system, sunroof, and upgraded sound systems. The exterior featured a subtle but sporty appearance, with unique alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, and S6 badging. The interior color schemes were typically subdued, reflecting Audi’s commitment to understated luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The S6 4.2 quattro features a robust chassis designed to handle the increased power output. The suspension utilizes independent multi-link suspension at the front and an independent trapezoidal lever setup at the rear, providing excellent handling and ride comfort. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with hydraulic power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi S6 4.2 quattro was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined performance, luxurious interior, and all-weather capability. However, its fuel economy was often criticized, as expected for a V8-powered performance sedan. Compared to the BMW M5, the S6 offered a more comfortable ride and a more understated appearance. Compared to the Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG, the S6 provided a more engaging driving experience. The S6’s quattro all-wheel-drive system was a significant advantage in regions with inclement weather.
Legacy
The C5 generation Audi S6 4.2 quattro has developed a loyal following among enthusiasts. The 4.2-liter V8 engine is known for its reliability, although regular maintenance is essential. The quattro all-wheel-drive system remains a highly regarded feature. Today, well-maintained examples of the S6 4.2 quattro are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. While not as common as some of its competitors, the S6 offers a unique blend of performance, luxury, and practicality, making it a desirable classic sports sedan. The manual transmission versions are particularly prized for their engaging driving experience.
