Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A6 |
| Generation | A6 Avant (4A,C4) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.8 V6 30V (193 Hp) quattro Automatic |
| Start of production | October, 1995 |
| End of production | 1997 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 14.3 l/100 km (16.4 US mpg, 19.8 UK mpg, 7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg, 28.5 UK mpg, 10.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 223 km/h (138.57 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 117 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 169.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 193 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 3200 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | ACK |
| Engine displacement | 2771 cm3 (169.1 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.4 mm (3.4 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 5 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 390 l (13.77 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1310 l (46.26 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%) | 1750 kg (3858.09 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 | 1783 mm (70.2 in.) |
| Height | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2692 mm (105.98 in.) |
| Front track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1524 mm (60 in.) |
| 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 | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
The Audi A6 Avant (4A, C4) 2.8 V6 30V quattro Automatic, produced between October 1995 and 1997, represents a sophisticated blend of performance and practicality within the C4 A6 generation. Positioned as a mid-to-upper trim level, this variant offered a compelling alternative to the base four-cylinder models and the more expensive, high-performance S6. Built on the Audi 1HX0/A3 platform, the A6 Avant aimed to deliver a premium wagon experience, combining Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel drive system with a smooth-shifting automatic transmission and a potent V6 engine. This model catered to buyers seeking a comfortable, capable, and refined vehicle for both daily commuting and long-distance travel.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A6 Avant 2.8 quattro Automatic is the ACK engine, a 2.8-liter V6 boasting 30 valves (5 per cylinder). This engine is a naturally aspirated, longitudinal-mounted unit, representing a significant step up from the base four-cylinder offerings. The ACK utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports, optimizing combustion efficiency. The double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, coupled with the 10.6:1 compression ratio, contributes to the engine’s responsive power delivery. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth and effortless gear changes. This transmission, while not as technologically advanced as some later offerings, provided a comfortable driving experience and was well-suited to the engine’s torque curve.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.8 V6 automatic combination in the A6 Avant delivered a balanced driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 9.7 seconds, and top speed was electronically limited to 138.57 mph. While not a sports car, the engine provided ample power for overtaking and highway cruising. The quattro all-wheel drive system ensured excellent traction in various weather conditions, enhancing stability and control. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did result in some power loss compared to the available five-speed manual. Gear ratios were tuned for comfort and fuel efficiency rather than outright performance. Compared to the more powerful S6 models, the 2.8 V6 felt less urgent, but it offered a more refined and relaxed driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A6 Avant 2.8 quattro Automatic typically came equipped with a generous array of standard features. These included power windows, power locks, a sunroof, and air conditioning. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, although leather was available as an option. Dashboard configuration featured wood trim accents, contributing to the car’s premium feel. Optional extras included a premium sound system, heated front seats, and automatic climate control. The quattro all-wheel drive system was a standard feature on this trim level, setting it apart from the front-wheel drive variants.
Chassis & Braking
The A6 Avant’s chassis featured an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension in the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The car was equipped with ventilated disc brakes in the front and solid disc brakes in the rear, providing adequate stopping power for its weight class. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A6 Avant 2.8 quattro Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and the security of the quattro all-wheel drive system. Fuel economy, however, was a common criticism, with combined fuel consumption averaging around 23.8 US mpg. Compared to the 1.8L four-cylinder models, the 2.8 V6 offered significantly more power and refinement, but at a higher price point. The 2.8L also proved more reliable than the later 3.0L V6 engines. Against the more expensive S6, it offered a more practical and affordable alternative, sacrificing some performance for increased comfort and fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The Audi A6 Avant (4A, C4) 2.8 V6 30V quattro Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with many examples still on the road today. The ACK engine is known for its durability, although regular maintenance is crucial to prevent issues such as oil leaks and timing belt failure. The automatic transmission, while generally robust, can require attention as it ages. In the used car market, these A6 Avants are sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate their classic Audi styling, comfortable ride, and all-weather capability. They represent a compelling option for those seeking a practical and refined European wagon with a touch of performance.
