Audi S6 C5
The understated V8 executive express with a wide-body stance.
- Power
- 340 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.5 s
- Top speed
- 155 mph
- Est. value
- $7k–$22k
About the Audi S6 C5
The C5-generation Audi S6 was the ultimate sleeper of its era, distinguished from the standard A6 by its flared wheel arches, aluminium mirror caps, and a 40-valve V8 engine. While the North American market only received the Avant, the Saloon remained a staple of European high-speed commuting, offering a refined alternative to the more aggressive BMW M5. Its naturally aspirated 4.2-litre engine provides a linear power delivery paired with the security of the Torsen-based Quattro all-wheel-drive system. Though later eclipsed by the twin-turbo RS6, the S6 is increasingly appreciated for its balance of daily usability and classic V8 character.
Audi S6 C5 specs
The Audi S6 C5 produces 340 bhp (254 kW) and 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.5 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
| Make | Audi |
|---|---|
| Model | S6 |
| Generation | C5 |
| Trim | 4.2 Quattro |
| Years | 1999–2003 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Germany |
| Original price | About $50,000 when new |
| Engine | 4.2-litre 40v V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,172 cc (4.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 340 bhp (254 kW) at 7,000 rpm |
| Torque | 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.5 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,760 kg (3,880 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 193 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an Audi S6 C5 worth?
A typical Audi S6 C5 is estimated to be worth $6,500 – $22,000 (about £4,800 – £16,000).
Its original price when new was about $50,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Audi S6 C5 rarity in CarSpot
The Audi S6 C5 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 15 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Audi S6 C5 fun facts
- The C5 S6 features a unique 'wide-body' shell shared with the A6 4.2 and RS6 to accommodate the larger V8 engine and wider track.
- It was one of the last performance Audis to use a 5-valve-per-cylinder head design, a hallmark of the brand's engineering in the late 1990s.
- While most S6s were equipped with the 5-speed Tiptronic, a 6-speed manual was available in European markets, making those examples highly sought after today.
