Audi A4 Classic Cars For Sale

History of the Audi A4

Audi launched the A4 in 1994 as a successor to the Audi 80, redefining its compact executive offering on the Volkswagen Group B platform. Marking the B5 series as its first generation, the A4 continued a lineage that saw incremental yet meaningful advancements with each new generation – B6, B7, B8 and B9. The B5’s arrival coincided with the growing appeal of technologically advanced, well-built German estates and saloons, quickly making the A4 a familiar sight on UK roads. Over more than three decades, the range evolved with the introduction of quattro all-wheel drive, turbocharged four and six-cylinder engines, and eventually the performance-led S4 and RS4 offshoots. The A4’s history is inseparable from the rise of the “driver’s family car”, blending refinement, build quality, and understated style.

Development and Model Series History

The A4’s story starts in 1994 with the B5 series, picking up directly from the outgoing Audi 80. Each subsequent series, B6 through B9, showcases Audi’s response to changing demands in driving dynamics, safety and comfort. The B6 (launched 2000) brought further improvements in ride comfort and styling, while the B7 added modern lighting and advanced electronics. As time moved forward into the B8 and B9 generations, features like the Virtual Cockpit, MMI Navigation Plus, and advanced driver assists became key. The A4’s adaptability is underlined by its variety of body styles – not just the classic saloon, but also the Avant (estate) and Cabriolet. The performance S4 and RS4 variants, with roots in the late 1990s, became reference points for fast estate cars, enhancing Audi’s reputation among enthusiasts. Key highlights in model history include the RS4 B5 (produced 1999–2001), a high-performance estate designed and built with Cosworth’s engineering input, and the impressive power hikes seen in later generations.

Highlights and Unique Features

The Audi A4 distinguishes itself through its broad range of engines, precision all-wheel-drive (quattro), and a spectrum of well-built interior and exterior options. Notably, the RS4 B5 (1999–2001) introduced a wide body (+35mm), high-spec brakes and suspension, with a 2.7 V6 biturbo engine co-developed with Cosworth. Build quality and reliability are reflected in vehicles with full service history and thorough documentation, a common offering among classic A4s on the UK market. High-value trims boast climate control, premium leather or Nappa sports seats, BOSE or Bang & Olufsen sound, and optionally advanced navigation systems. The S4 and RS4 models stand out for their sporting attributes: powerful engines (up to 4.2 V8 in S4 and RS4 B7), custom interior finishes, exclusive alloy wheels (Avus, Rotor, Edge), and distinctive paint options. Estates (Avant) and cabriolets remain popular due to their versatility and unique place in the executive car segment.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The most notable collectible variant is the RS4 B5 Avant (1999–2001), built in limited numbers (around 6,030 units) with Cosworth-enhanced 2.7 V6 biturbo producing circa 380–381 PS. Distinctive features include flared arches, wider tracks, unique bumpers, and higher-spec brakes/suspension. Later generations brought further special S4 and RS4 models with signature colours, ceramic brake options (RS4 B7), exclusive interiors, and rare wheel designs. Certain S-Line and Competition Packages across generations are also sought-after by enthusiasts for their tailored equipment and performance upgrades.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Detailed data on typical weak spots for the A4 does not accompany this summary; however, buyers should scrutinise examples for service history, originality, and specialised parts availability – especially for RS4 and S4 models. Some special edition parts and rare trims (exclusive wheels, brakes, interior features) are known to be difficult to source. Maintenance-intensive versions include those with advanced drivetrains or aftermarket modifications. Garaged vehicles and those not used in winter typically show less corrosion and wear in the UK climate.

Engine, Transmission and Handling

Driving dynamics in the Audi A4 are defined by balanced chassis set-up and, on many models, quattro all-wheel-drive. RS4s and S4s set benchmarks in the estate and saloon performance class, offering high torque outputs and advanced suspension geometry – notably the RS4 B5's 4-link front axle and lowered ride height (approx. 20mm vs standard). The RS4’s biturbo V6 delivers dramatic acceleration, while the naturally aspirated V8 in later S/RS models provides immediate response and deep reserves of power. Manual and sophisticated automatic transmissions offer flexibility for daily or spirited use. Mainstream A4s (1.8T, 2.0L) supply reliable performance for daily or touring needs, and can be found with a blend of economy and usability. Handling is secure, particularly with Quattro, with responsive steering supported by Servotronic systems and, in later models, adaptive suspension. - RS4 B5 Avant (1999–2001): 2.7 V6 Biturbo, approx. 380–381 PS, 0–100 km/h in ~4.6s, 6-speed manual.

• S4 (B6/B7): 4.2 V8, ca. 344 PS, Quattro; 0–100 km/h in ~5.8–6.2s.
• A4 1.8T: 163 PS (stock), variants up to 200+ PS common, 0–100 km/h in 7–9s.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design Details

Audi A4 interiors range from understated refinement to lavish sports-focused layouts, especially in S/RS variants with Recaro or Nappa leather sports seats, bespoke inlays (carbon, aluminium, wood), and distinctive RS/S-badged steering wheels. Special edition wheels (e.g., Avus, Rotor) and exclusive paint schemes like Avus Silver, Daytona Grey, Imola Yellow, and Sonoma Green set higher-tier models apart. Extensive accessory lists include Bose/Bang & Olufsen hi-fi, advanced navigation, climate zones, panoramic roofs and ambient lighting (in B8/B9). Essential UK specifications such as rain sensors, LED headlights, and heated seats further add comfort and safety. Practical angles are met with flexible seating, split rear benches, and cargo features in estates. Other details: aluminium mirror caps (S/RS), unique bumpers and spoilers, and bespoke cabin features emphasise trim exclusivity.

Other Noteworthy Features

Later A4 generations (B8/B9) offer digital features like Virtual Cockpit, Head-Up Display, MMI Navigation Plus, Keyless-Go, wireless phone charging, DRC/Active Suspension and high-end connectivity. Safety and security have steadily improved, with additions such as alarm systems, privacy glass, adaptive cruise control and advanced parking aides.

Summary

The Audi A4 over its five generations sets a standard for luxury compact cars, blending advanced engineering, diverse powertrains, and robust build quality. Standouts include special editions like the RS4 B5 Avant, renowned for its Cosworth-developed biturbo six and unique bodywork. Its mix of comfort, practicality, and understated sporting appeal appeals to a wide collector and enthusiast audience, confirmed by market interest in both high-performance and well-specced standard versions. Documented histories, full-service records, and rare original options are hallmarks of high-quality A4s on the UK classic car market.