The Audi S4 (B7) 4.2i V8 quattro Tiptronic, produced from August 2004 to June 2008, represents a high-performance iteration of the B7 generation Audi S4. Positioned as the flagship trim level, it offered a significant step up in power and refinement compared to the standard S4 models equipped with the 1.8T or 3.0 V6 engines. Built on the Audi/Volkswagen Group’s B7 platform (shared with the Volkswagen Passat), the S4 aimed to deliver a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and all-weather capability, primarily targeting enthusiasts in the European and North American markets. This variant distinguished itself through its naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 engine paired exclusively with a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | S4 |
| Generation | S4 (8E,B7) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.2i V8 (344 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | August, 2004 |
| End of production | June, 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 17.9 l/100 km (13.1 US mpg, 15.8 UK mpg, 5.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.3 l/100 km (19.1 US mpg, 23 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 295 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5 kg/Hp, 201.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 240.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 344 Hp @ 7000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 410 Nm @ 3500 rpm (302.4 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | BBK |
| Engine displacement | 4163 cm3 (254.04 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 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 | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1705 kg (3758.88 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2255 kg (4971.42 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 833 l (29.42 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4586 mm (180.55 in.) |
| Width | 1781 mm (70.12 in.) |
| Height | 1415 mm (55.71 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2651 mm (104.37 in.) |
| Front track | 1516 mm (59.69 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1512 mm (59.53 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.3 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | 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 | 235/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S4 (B7) 4.2i is the BBK engine, a 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine, a descendant of the V8 used in the Lamborghini Gallardo and Audi R8, features an aluminum alloy block and heads, contributing to a relatively lightweight construction. It employs multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with five valves per cylinder. The engine’s 90-degree V-angle provides inherent balance, resulting in smooth operation. The Tiptronic six-speed automatic transmission, while offering convenience, was often criticized for slightly slower shift times compared to the available six-speed manual. It featured adaptive shift programming, attempting to learn the driver’s style, but rarely matched the responsiveness of a skilled manual driver. The quattro all-wheel-drive system utilizes a Torsen center differential, providing a rear-biased torque distribution under normal conditions, enhancing driving dynamics.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.2i V8 Tiptronic S4 delivers a distinctly different driving experience compared to its turbocharged four-cylinder or V6 siblings. While lacking the immediate punch of the 1.8T’s turbo boost, the V8 provides a broad, linear powerband and a satisfying exhaust note. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 5.5 seconds, making it a genuinely quick car by early 2000s standards. The Tiptronic transmission, while smooth, can feel somewhat detached, especially in automatic mode. Utilizing the manual shift function improves responsiveness, but still doesn’t offer the direct engagement of a manual gearbox. The quattro system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions, inspiring confidence on both dry and wet surfaces. The car feels planted and stable, even when pushed hard through corners.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.2i V8 Tiptronic S4 typically came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium audio system, automatic climate control, and xenon headlights. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and upgraded interior trim packages. The interior design was typically understated and elegant, reflecting Audi’s commitment to quality and refinement. The S4 also featured unique exterior styling cues, such as a distinctive front grille, S-line badging, and quad exhaust outlets.
Chassis & Braking
The S4 (B7) featured a sport-tuned suspension, with stiffer springs and dampers compared to the standard A4. The front suspension utilized a multi-link design, while the rear employed a trapezoidal link setup. Ventilated disc brakes were standard on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was also standard. The chassis was designed to provide a balance between comfort and handling, offering a firm but not overly harsh ride.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S4 4.2i V8 Tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, refined interior, and all-weather capability. However, the Tiptronic transmission was a common point of criticism, with some reviewers preferring the more engaging experience of the manual gearbox. Compared to the 1.8T and 3.0 V6 S4 models, the 4.2i offered significantly more performance but came at a higher price and with lower fuel economy. The 1.8T was favored by those seeking a more affordable and fuel-efficient option, while the 3.0 V6 offered a compromise between performance and economy.
Legacy
The Audi S4 (B7) 4.2i V8 Tiptronic remains a desirable car among enthusiasts today. The BBK V8 engine is known for its reliability, provided it receives regular maintenance. However, the Tiptronic transmission can be a potential weak point, and preventative maintenance is recommended. Parts availability is generally good, but can be more expensive than for the more common 1.8T and 3.0 V6 models. The S4 (B7) represents a sweet spot in Audi’s performance lineage, offering a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and all-weather capability that continues to appeal to drivers seeking a rewarding driving experience.
