Audi RS 6 C5 (4B)

Audi RS 6 C5 (Typ 4B) is a high-performance executive sports sedan in production from 2002 to 2004. It was available with a single bi-turbocharged V8 engine that displaced 4.2 liters.

The 4.2TT engine was based on the 40-valve V8 found in the D2 S8 facelift, C5 S6, and B7 S4. It delivered a level of output that was highly competitive at the time, well above what the E39 M5 was able to offer (although the balance and handling of the E39 M5 were clearly superior).

Unfortunately, the only transmission offered was the lethargic and unreliable ZF 5HP24A 5-speed automatic. This transmission suffered from a relatively weak Clutch A drum. While ZF improved the design of this part in 2001, and all C5 RS 6 had the updated part, it still was not really reliable.

Unlike modern turbochargers tuned for fuel economy, the RS 6 used the turbos purely for performance. Thus, the C5 RS 6 had very high fuel consumption.

Still, drivers who appreciate handling will be pleased to know that the RS 6 comes with multi-link suspensions at all four corners. This provides the best cornering performance and tunability, at the expense of cost and a little bit of durability.