The Audi Quattro is a legendary name in automotive history, synonymous with all-wheel drive performance and rallying dominance. But not all Quattros are created equal. This guide will navigate you through the best years to buy and some to potentially avoid, ensuring you find the perfect Quattro to suit your needs and budget.
Audi Quattro: A Model Year Overview
| Model Year Range | Key Features/Engine | Things to Consider |
|---|---|---|
| 1980-1991 (Original Quattro) | 2.1L/2.2L Turbocharged Inline-5, Manual Transmission, Iconic Design | High Maintenance, Parts Availability, Rust, Performance Variability Between Model Years |
| 1991-1994 (Audi S2 Coupe) | 2.2L Turbocharged Inline-5, 6-Speed Manual, Improved Interior | Can be Expensive, Complex Electronics, Potential for Abuse |
| 1994-1997 (Audi RS2 Avant) | 2.2L Turbocharged Inline-5 (Porsche-Developed), Avant Body Style, High Performance | Very Expensive, Rare, High Maintenance Costs, Potential for Abuse |
| 1997-2001 (Audi S4/RS4 B5) | 2.7L Twin-Turbo V6, Sedan & Avant (RS4), Increased Complexity | Turbo Issues, High Running Costs, Potential for Modifications |
| 2003-2005 (Audi RS6 C5) | 4.2L Twin-Turbo V8, Sedan & Avant, Powerful but Complex | High Maintenance Costs, Turbo Issues, Automatic Transmission Only |
| 2006-2008 (Audi RS4 B7) | 4.2L Naturally Aspirated V8, Rev-Happy Engine, Available in Sedan, Avant, and Cabriolet | Carbon Build-Up, DRC Suspension Issues, High Fuel Consumption |
| 2008-2015 (Audi S5/RS5 B8/B8.5) | 4.2L Naturally Aspirated V8 (S5 pre-facelift, RS5), 3.0L Supercharged V6 (S5 facelift), Coupe & Cabriolet | Carbon Build-Up (V8), DRC Suspension (RS5), Potential for Timing Chain Issues (3.0T) |
| 2012-2018 (Audi S6/RS6 C7) | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8, Sedan & Avant (RS6), Refined Performance | Turbo Issues, Oil Consumption, Complex Electronics |
| 2016-Present (Audi S4/RS4 B9/B9.5) | 3.0L Turbocharged V6, Sedan & Avant (RS4), Modern Technology | Generally Reliable, Potential for Tuning, Some Early Models Had Software Glitches |
| 2019-Present (Audi S6/RS6 C8) | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 with Mild Hybrid System, Sedan & Avant (RS6), High Performance & Technology | Complex Electronics, Potential for Hybrid System Issues, Depreciation |
Detailed Explanations
1980-1991 (Original Quattro): This is the iconic, original Quattro, the car that put Audi and all-wheel drive on the map. Powered by a turbocharged inline-5 engine, these cars are known for their distinctive sound and rally heritage. However, they are high-maintenance classics. Finding parts can be difficult, and rust is a common problem. Performance can also vary significantly depending on the specific model year and engine configuration.
1991-1994 (Audi S2 Coupe): The S2 Coupe is a more refined and modern take on the original Quattro formula. It features a 2.2L turbocharged inline-5 engine and a 6-speed manual transmission, offering improved performance and handling compared to earlier models. However, they can be expensive to buy and maintain, and their complex electronics can be prone to issues.
1994-1997 (Audi RS2 Avant): The RS2 Avant is a legendary performance wagon co-developed with Porsche. It features a Porsche-tuned 2.2L turbocharged inline-5 engine and is renowned for its exceptional performance and handling. These are rare and highly sought-after cars, commanding a premium price. Maintenance costs are high, and finding one in good condition can be challenging.
1997-2001 (Audi S4/RS4 B5): The B5 S4 and RS4 marked a shift towards more complex and refined performance cars. The S4 features a 2.7L twin-turbo V6 engine, while the RS4 boasts an uprated version. These cars are known for their tuning potential, but also for their potential for turbo issues and high running costs.
2003-2005 (Audi RS6 C5): The C5 RS6 is a powerful and luxurious performance sedan and wagon. It features a 4.2L twin-turbo V8 engine that delivers impressive performance. However, it's a complex car with high maintenance costs and is only available with an automatic transmission. Turbo issues are also a common concern.
2006-2008 (Audi RS4 B7): The B7 RS4 is a high-revving, naturally aspirated V8-powered performance car. Available in sedan, Avant, and Cabriolet forms, it offers a unique driving experience. However, it's prone to carbon build-up on the intake valves, which can reduce performance. It can also suffer from issues with its DRC (Dynamic Ride Control) suspension.
2008-2015 (Audi S5/RS5 B8/B8.5): The B8/B8.5 generation offers a mix of V8 and supercharged V6 engine options. The S5 initially came with a 4.2L naturally aspirated V8, then switched to a 3.0L supercharged V6 in the facelifted model. The RS5 retains the V8. Potential issues include carbon build-up (V8), DRC suspension (RS5), and timing chain problems (3.0T).
2012-2018 (Audi S6/RS6 C7): The C7 S6 and RS6 are powerful and refined performance cars with twin-turbo V8 engines. They offer a blend of performance and luxury. However, potential issues include turbo problems, oil consumption, and complex electronics.
2016-Present (Audi S4/RS4 B9/B9.5): The B9/B9.5 generation features a 3.0L turbocharged V6 engine, offering a balance of performance and efficiency. These are generally more reliable than older models, but some early models had software glitches. They also offer significant tuning potential.
2019-Present (Audi S6/RS6 C8): The C8 S6 and RS6 are high-performance cars with twin-turbo V8 engines and mild-hybrid systems. They offer the latest technology and performance. However, they are complex cars with potential for hybrid system issues and significant depreciation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Quattro is the most reliable? Generally, the newer B9/B9.5 S4/RS4 models (2016-present) with the 3.0L turbocharged V6 are considered more reliable than older models due to advancements in technology and design.
Which Quattro is the fastest? The newer RS6 models (C7 and C8 generations) offer the highest performance due to their powerful twin-turbo V8 engines and advanced drivetrain technology.
What are common problems with older Quattros? Rust, parts availability, and high maintenance costs are common issues with older Quattros, especially the original models.
Are the S and RS models worth the extra cost? S and RS models offer significantly improved performance and features compared to standard Audi models with Quattro, but they also come with higher maintenance and running costs.
Is Quattro better than other all-wheel-drive systems? Quattro is a well-regarded all-wheel-drive system known for its performance and handling benefits, but other manufacturers also offer excellent all-wheel-drive systems. The best system depends on the specific application and driving conditions.
Conclusion
Choosing the best year for an Audi Quattro depends heavily on your priorities and budget. If you're seeking a classic icon and are willing to invest in maintenance, the original Quattro (1980-1991) is a rewarding choice. For a more modern and reliable experience, consider the later B9/B9.5 S4/RS4 models. Always prioritize a thorough inspection and maintenance history before making a purchase.