The Audi S5 Coupe (8T) 4.2 FSI V8 quattro Tiptronic represents a high-performance iteration of the B8 generation Audi A5/S5 line, produced between February 2007 and 2011. Positioned as the flagship coupe within the A5 family, it offered a significant step up in power and refinement compared to the standard A5 and the 2.0 TFSI S5 models. This variant combined a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 engine with Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system and a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, creating a grand touring coupe focused on delivering effortless performance and a luxurious driving experience. It served as a direct competitor to vehicles like the BMW 335i Coupe and the Mercedes-Benz CLK550.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | S5 |
| Generation | S5 Coupe (8T) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.2 FSI V8 (354 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | February, 2007 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg, 26.2 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 256 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.7 kg/Hp, 211.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 262.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 354 Hp @ 7000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85 Hp/l |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 3500 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CAUA |
| 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 | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.8 l (9.3 US qt, 7.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.7 l (10.25 US qt, 8.53 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1675 kg (3692.74 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2175 kg (4795.05 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 455 l (16.07 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal, 14.08 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4625 mm (182.09 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1981 mm (77.99 in.) |
| Height | 1369 mm (53.9 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2751 mm (108.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1594 mm (62.76 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1581 mm (62.24 in.) |
| Front overhang | 850 mm (33.46 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1024 mm (40.31 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.306 |
| 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 | 6 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever |
| 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 | 245/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S5 Coupe 4.2 FSI is the CAUA engine, a 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine utilizes Audi’s FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection) direct injection technology, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber for improved efficiency and power. The engine boasts a 11:1 compression ratio and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine produces 354 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 324.53 lb-ft of torque at 3500 rpm. The six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector. This transmission is known for its smooth shifts and responsiveness, though it isn’t as quick as some dual-clutch transmissions found in competitors.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.2 FSI V8, coupled with the quattro all-wheel-drive system, provides the S5 Coupe with impressive acceleration and handling. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 5.1 seconds, and the car feels planted and stable even under hard acceleration. The Tiptronic transmission, while smooth, does introduce a slight delay in shifts compared to a manual or dual-clutch transmission. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance between performance and fuel economy, with a focus on providing strong mid-range torque for effortless overtaking. Compared to the 2.0 TFSI S5, the V8 offers a significantly more robust and refined power delivery, lacking the turbo lag present in the smaller engine. The V8 also provides a distinctive exhaust note that is more satisfying to many enthusiasts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S5 Coupe 4.2 FSI typically came well-equipped as standard. Interior features included leather upholstery, sport seats, a multi-function steering wheel, and a premium audio system. Standard exterior features included 18-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, and a sport-tuned suspension. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, advanced parking assist, and upgraded interior trim packages. The S5 also offered a range of customization options through Audi’s exclusive program, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle with unique interior and exterior finishes.
Chassis & Braking
The S5 Coupe features a fully independent suspension system, with a multi-link setup at the front and a trapezoidal lever arrangement at the rear. This suspension is tuned for a balance between comfort and handling, providing a relatively compliant ride while maintaining excellent body control. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety and stability during hard braking. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction and stability in all weather conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S5 Coupe 4.2 FSI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, refined driving experience, and luxurious interior. However, some critics noted that the Tiptronic transmission wasn’t as engaging as a manual gearbox and that fuel economy was relatively poor. Compared to the 2.0 TFSI S5, the V8 model offered a more premium and powerful experience, but at a higher price point. The V8 also tended to be more expensive to maintain due to the increased complexity of the engine and its associated components.
Legacy
The Audi S5 Coupe 4.2 FSI V8 quattro Tiptronic remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market. The CAUA engine, while known for its complexity, is generally considered reliable if properly maintained. Regular oil changes and timely servicing are crucial to prevent issues. The car’s timeless design and strong performance continue to appeal to enthusiasts. However, potential buyers should be aware of the higher maintenance costs associated with the V8 engine and the Tiptronic transmission. Parts availability is generally good, but can be more expensive than for the 2.0 TFSI models. The S5 4.2 FSI represents a sweet spot for those seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and all-weather capability in a stylish coupe package.
