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Audi S4

Audi

Audi S4: Audi compact AWD performance sedan. Multiple generations including legendary B5 S4 with 2.7L twin-turbo V6.
Photo: Mr.choppers / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0

Audi compact AWD performance sedan. Multiple generations including legendary B5 S4 with 2.7L twin-turbo V6.

The Audi S4 is a compact AWD performance sedan produced since 1997. The S4 is positioned below the RS4 in Audi performance hierarchy. Multiple generations have refined the formula. The B5 S4 (1997-2001) used a 2.7L twin-turbo V6 and is widely considered one of the great Audi performance sedans of the era. S4 generations include B5 (1997-2001, twin-turbo V6), B6 (2003-2005, V8), B7 (2005-2008, V8), B8 (2009-2016, supercharged V6), B9 (2017-2023, twin-turbo V6). On WhipJury, S4 submissions are common, particularly B5 examples and modified B8/B9 cars.

S4 generations

B5 (1997-2001). 2.7L twin-turbo V6, 250-265 horsepower.

B6/B7 (2003-2008). 4.2L V8, 339 horsepower.

B8 (2009-2016). 3.0L supercharged V6, 333 horsepower.

B9 (2017-2023). 3.0L twin-turbo V6, 349 horsepower.

Frequently asked questions about Audi S4

Is the B5 S4 the best?
Among enthusiasts, often yes. The B5 S4 (1997-2001) with 2.7L twin-turbo V6 has cult following due to engine character and tuner potential. The 2.7T responds well to modifications. Pricing for clean B5 S4s has appreciated as future-classic status emerges.
How much does an S4 cost?
Used pricing varies dramatically. B5 S4: $5,000-$30,000+. B6/B7 S4: $5,000-$15,000. B8 S4: $15,000-$30,000. B9 S4: $30,000-$50,000+. Clean B5 examples are at the higher end of B5 range.
Are S4s reliable?
Mixed depending on generation. B5 with 2.7T has known timing belt and various concerns. B6/B7 V8 has timing chain issues. B8 supercharged V6 has been reliable. B9 has been generally reliable. Maintenance is expensive due to specialty parts.
How is S4 different from RS4?
RS4 is the higher performance variant. S4 is the mid-tier sport variant; RS4 has more power (450 horsepower in current B9), more aggressive chassis tuning, and aggressive styling. Both are Audi performance sedans; RS4 is the focused track-capable variant.
Why was the B5 S4 special?
The 2.7L twin-turbo V6 was a unique engine in compact sport sedan format. Combined with quattro AWD, manual transmission, and balanced chassis, the B5 S4 was widely considered one of the great affordable performance sedans of the late 1990s and early 2000s. The engine has been highly modifiable.

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