The Audi S6 (4B, C5) 4.2 V8 quattro Tiptronic, produced between September 1999 and January 2005, represents a high-performance iteration of the C5 generation Audi A6. Positioned as the performance variant, the S6 bridged the gap between the standard A6 and the even more potent RS6. This model combined a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 engine with Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system and a five-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and all-weather capability. It was primarily marketed in Europe and North America as a sophisticated sports sedan aimed at enthusiasts seeking a refined driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | S6 |
| Generation | S6 (4B,C5) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.2 V8 (340 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| 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) | 21.8 l/100 km (10.8 US mpg, 13 UK mpg, 4.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.1 l/100 km (23.3 US mpg, 28 UK mpg, 9.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 14.3 l/100 km (16.4 US mpg, 19.8 UK mpg, 7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 343 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.2 kg/Hp, 193.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 238.6 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 | 1760 kg (3880.14 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2300 kg (5070.63 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 | 5 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 |
| 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 is the ANK or AQJ engine code, a 4.172-liter (254.6 cubic inches) naturally aspirated V8. This engine featured a 90-degree V-angle, contributing to its smooth operation. It utilized multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with five valves per cylinder. The engine produced 340 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 420 Nm (309.78 lb-ft) of torque at 3400 rpm. The five-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission allowed for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector. This transmission was specifically tuned to handle the V8’s power output and provide relatively quick shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The S6 4.2 Tiptronic offered a compelling driving experience. While not as brutally fast as some of its competitors with turbocharged engines, the V8 provided a broad and usable powerband. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 6.4 seconds, and the car was electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph. The Tiptronic transmission, while convenient, wasn’t as responsive as a traditional manual gearbox. Gear ratios were optimized for a balance of acceleration and cruising efficiency. Compared to the standard A6 1.8T or 2.8 models, the S6 offered significantly more power and a more engaging driving experience. However, it lacked the raw performance of the later RS6, which featured a twin-turbocharged V8.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S6 4.2 Tiptronic came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and xenon headlights. Optional extras included a navigation system, sunroof, and upgraded interior trim materials. The interior design was typically Audi, characterized by a clean and functional layout with high-quality materials. The S6 also featured unique exterior styling cues, such as a distinctive front grille, body-colored side skirts, and quad exhaust outlets.
Chassis & Braking
The S6’s chassis was designed to complement its performance capabilities. It featured an independent multi-link suspension at all four corners, providing a comfortable ride and precise handling. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributed power between the front and rear axles as needed, enhancing traction and stability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes at all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S6 4.2 Tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and sophisticated interior. However, some reviewers noted that the Tiptronic transmission could feel slightly sluggish compared to a manual gearbox. Fuel economy was also a concern, with combined fuel consumption averaging around 16.4 US mpg. Compared to rivals like the BMW 540i and Mercedes-Benz E500, the S6 offered a unique blend of performance, luxury, and all-weather capability.
Legacy
The Audi S6 (4B, C5) 4.2 V8 quattro Tiptronic remains a desirable used car today. The 4.2-liter V8 engine is known for its reliability, although regular maintenance is essential. Timing belt replacement is a critical service item, as failure can lead to catastrophic engine damage. The Tiptronic transmission can be prone to issues if not properly maintained. Overall, the S6 4.2 Tiptronic offers a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and practicality, making it a popular choice among Audi enthusiasts.
