The Audi RS6 (4F, C6) 5.0 TFSI V10 quattro Tiptronic, produced from September 2008 to August 2010, represents the pinnacle of performance for the C6 generation RS6. This variant, a high-performance iteration of the Audi A6, was exclusively available as a sedan and distinguished itself with a potent 5.0-liter twin-turbocharged V10 engine paired with Audi’s six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and the renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system. It served as the flagship model, offering a blend of luxury, blistering acceleration, and advanced technology, targeting enthusiasts seeking a supremely capable and exclusive grand tourer.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | RS6 |
| Generation | RS6 (4F,C6) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.0 TFSI V10 (580 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | September, 2008 |
| End of production | August, 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 20.3 l/100 km (11.6 US mpg, 13.9 UK mpg, 4.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 13.9 l/100 km (16.9 US mpg, 20.3 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 331 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 14.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.4 kg/Hp, 292.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 327.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 580 Hp @ 6250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 116.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 650 Nm @ 1500-6250 rpm (479.42 lb.-ft. @ 1500-6250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | BUH |
| Engine displacement | 4991 cm3 (304.57 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 10 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14 l (14.79 US qt | 12.32 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1985 kg (4376.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2565 kg (5654.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 546 l (19.28 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4928 mm (194.02 in.) |
| Width | 1889 mm (74.37 in.) |
| Height | 1456 mm (57.32 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2846 mm (112.05 in.) |
| Front track | 1614 mm (63.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1637 mm (64.45 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, 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 |
| Tires size | 255/40 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 9J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi RS6 (4F, C6) 5.0 TFSI V10 quattro Tiptronic, launched in late 2008, represented a significant leap forward for the RS6 lineage. Built on the Audi A6 (4F) platform, also shared with the A4 and A8 of the era, the C6 RS6 aimed to deliver uncompromising performance in a practical, luxury package. The 5.0 TFSI V10 variant was the top-tier offering, positioned above any other engine option in the C6 RS6 range. Production was relatively limited, ending in August 2010, adding to its exclusivity.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the RS6 5.0 TFSI lies the BUH engine code, a 4.991-liter (304.57 cu. in.) naturally aspirated V10 engine. This engine is notable for its 90-degree V-angle and features direct fuel injection (FSI) and twin turbochargers with intercooling. The engine produces 580 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and a substantial 650 Nm (479.42 lb-ft) of torque available from a low 1,500 rpm all the way to 6,250 rpm. The valvetrain utilizes double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. The six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, while offering smooth shifts, was a point of contention for some enthusiasts who preferred a manual gearbox. The Tiptronic allowed for both fully automatic operation and driver-controlled gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The RS6 5.0 TFSI delivers breathtaking acceleration. The combination of the powerful V10 engine, the quick-shifting Tiptronic transmission, and the quattro all-wheel-drive system results in a 0-60 mph time of around 4.3 seconds and a 0-100 km/h time of 4.5 seconds. The quattro system provides exceptional traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions. While the Tiptronic transmission is efficient, it doesn’t offer the same level of engagement as a manual gearbox. Gear ratios are optimized for both rapid acceleration and comfortable high-speed cruising. The engine’s broad torque curve ensures strong performance across the rev range, making it a versatile performer for both daily driving and spirited excursions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The RS6 5.0 TFSI came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury and performance features. Interior appointments included premium leather upholstery, carbon fiber trim, and sport seats with aggressive bolstering. Standard equipment also included a multi-function steering wheel, a premium sound system, and automatic climate control. Optional extras included adaptive cruise control, a sunroof, and upgraded interior trim packages. The exterior featured a unique RS6 body kit, including aggressive front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and a rear spoiler. Larger wheels and performance tires were also standard.
Chassis & Braking
The RS6 5.0 TFSI features a sport-tuned suspension designed to provide a balance between comfort and handling. The front suspension utilizes an independent multi-link setup, while the rear employs an independent trapezoidal lever design. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock braking system) is standard. The RS6’s chassis is reinforced compared to the standard A6 to handle the increased power and stresses of high-performance driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The RS6 5.0 TFSI was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its exceptional performance, luxurious interior, and all-weather capability. However, the Tiptronic transmission was a common point of criticism, with some reviewers lamenting the lack of a manual option. Compared to other C6 RS6 variants, such as the 4.2-liter V8 model, the 5.0 TFSI offered significantly more power and performance. Fuel economy, unsurprisingly, was lower than the V8 variant, averaging around 16.9 US mpg combined. Reliability was generally good, although the complex twin-turbocharged engine and transmission required diligent maintenance.
Legacy
The Audi RS6 (4F, C6) 5.0 TFSI V10 quattro Tiptronic remains a highly sought-after performance sedan in the used car market. Its combination of power, luxury, and exclusivity has made it a collector’s item. The BUH engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively durable when properly maintained. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, turbocharger inspections, and transmission servicing. Today, the C6 RS6 5.0 TFSI represents a unique chapter in Audi’s high-performance history, offering a compelling blend of old-school V10 power and modern technology.
