The Audi S4 Avant (4A, C4) 4.2 V8 quattro, produced between October 1992 and July 1994, represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of high-performance station wagons. Positioned as the top-tier variant of the C4-generation Audi S4, this model combined the practicality of an estate car with the potent performance of a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 engine and Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system. It was a key offering in the European market, appealing to buyers seeking a vehicle capable of both spirited driving and everyday utility. The S4 Avant was built on the Audi 80 (B4) platform, internally designated 4A, and shared many components with the contemporary Audi 100. This model established a template for future Audi S and RS wagons, blending luxury, performance, and practicality.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | S4 |
| Generation | S4 Avant (4A,C4) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.2 V8 (280 Hp) quattro |
| Start of production | October, 1992 |
| End of production | July, 1994 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 18.9 l/100 km (12.4 US mpg, 14.9 UK mpg, 5.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg, 30.4 UK mpg, 10.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 11.3 l/100 km (20.8 US mpg, 25 UK mpg, 8.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 247 km/h (153.48 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.2 kg/Hp, 161.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 231.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 280 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 4000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | ABH |
| 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 | 10.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| 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 | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1730 kg (3814 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2280 kg (5026.54 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) |
| Length | 4790 mm (188.58 in.) |
| Width | 1805 mm (71.06 in.) |
| Height | 1422 mm (55.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2692 mm (105.98 in.) |
| Front track | 1569 mm (61.77 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1534 mm (60.39 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | 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 | 225/50 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S4 Avant was the ABH engine, a 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine, derived from the Audi V8 flagship, featured a 90-degree V-angle and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) operating four valves per cylinder. Bosch Motronic fuel injection managed the air-fuel mixture, delivering precise control for optimal performance and emissions. The engine produced 280 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s robust construction and relatively simple design (compared to later turbocharged engines) contributed to its inherent reliability. The sole transmission option was a robust 6-speed manual gearbox, designed to handle the engine’s substantial output and deliver precise gear changes. This transmission was a key component in maximizing the driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The S4 Avant 4.2 quattro offered a compelling blend of performance and practicality. Acceleration to 60 mph was achieved in approximately 6.3 seconds, and it could reach a top speed of 153.48 mph. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provided exceptional traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions, making the S4 Avant a capable year-round vehicle. The 6-speed manual transmission allowed for precise control over the engine’s power band. While not as overtly aggressive as some contemporary sports cars, the S4 Avant delivered a smooth, linear power delivery that was well-suited for both spirited driving and comfortable cruising. The relatively high weight of the vehicle (1730 kg) was noticeable, but the quattro system helped mitigate understeer and maintain stability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S4 Avant was well-equipped as standard, reflecting its position as the flagship variant. Interior features typically included sport seats upholstered in high-quality cloth or leather (optional), a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a comprehensive instrument cluster. Power windows, central locking, and an upgraded audio system were also standard. Optional extras included a sunroof, heated front seats, and a more advanced audio system. The interior design was functional and understated, emphasizing quality and durability over flashy aesthetics.
Chassis & Braking
The S4 Avant featured a modified chassis compared to the standard Audi 80 Avant, with stiffer springs and dampers for improved handling. The front suspension utilized a strut design, while the rear employed a coil spring setup. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, supplemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The braking system was generally considered adequate for the vehicle’s performance, but some contemporary reviews noted that the rear drums could feel less powerful than the front discs under heavy braking.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi S4 Avant 4.2 quattro was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its potent engine, all-weather capability, and practical estate car body style. Compared to other performance wagons of the era, such as the BMW 5 Series Touring, the S4 Avant offered a unique combination of luxury, performance, and all-wheel-drive traction. Fuel economy, however, was a significant drawback, with combined fuel consumption averaging around 20.8 US mpg. Maintenance costs were also relatively high, due to the complexity of the V8 engine and the quattro system. Compared to the standard Audi 80 Avant, the S4 Avant represented a substantial performance upgrade, but it also came at a significant price premium.
Legacy
The Audi S4 Avant 4.2 quattro remains a sought-after vehicle among enthusiasts today. The ABH engine is known for its durability and relatively straightforward maintenance, although parts availability can be a challenge. Well-maintained examples command high prices in the used car market. This model established the S4 Avant as a benchmark for high-performance wagons, paving the way for subsequent generations of Audi S and RS estate cars. Its blend of performance, practicality, and all-weather capability continues to appeal to drivers seeking a unique and rewarding driving experience.
