The History of the Audi S4

Table of Contents

• The Introduction to the Audi S4 and why it is a great car
• 1st generation (1991-1994):
• 2nd generation (1995-2001):
• 3rd generation (2002-2005):
• 4th generation (2006-2009):
• 5th generation (2010-2016):
• 6th generation (2018-2021):
• Conclusion to the Audi S4 generations

The Introduction to the Audi S4 and why it is a great car

The Audi S4 is an excellent car for many reasons. First, it has a powerful engine that can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds. It also has an all-wheel drive, making it great for handling all weather and road conditions. Finally, it has a sleek and stylish design that distinguishes it from other cars on the road.

If you’re looking for a powerful and stylish car that can handle any weather or road condition, the Audi S4 is the perfect choice for you.

Find out all about the different generations of the Audi S4 and everything that makes this model such a sought-after trim level.

1st generation (1991-1994):

The first generation S4 was a great car because it had a powerful engine and was very fast.

Audi’s S4 has been a fan favorite since its inception in 1991. The original S4 was outfitted with a 2.2-liter, 20v turbocharged inline-five engine that produced an impressive 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This was enough to propel the 3,200-pound sedan from 0-60 mph in just 5.6 seconds. 

2nd generation (1995-2001):

This generation S4 was even better than the first, with more features and a more comfortable interior.

The second generation Audi S4, produced from 1995-2001, was even better than the first. With more features and a powerful engine, the S4 quickly became a favorite among luxury car enthusiasts. The Quattro all-wheel drive system continued to be a selling point, providing excellent traction and handling in all weather conditions.

One of the most notable features of the second generation S4 was its twin-turbocharged engine. This allowed the S4 to produce significantly more power than its predecessor while maintaining good fuel economy. The interior was also updated with higher quality materials and new technology, making the S4 more comfortable and enjoyable to drive.

3rd generation (2002-2005):

The third generation S4 was the best yet, with an even more powerful engine and updated features.

The third generation S4, produced between 2002 and 2005, was the best. It featured an even more powerful engine than its predecessor, making it one of the most potent Audi models on the market. The exterior was also updated, with a more aggressive look that helped the S4 stand out from the competition. Unfortunately, sales never reached the levels of the previous generation, and the S4 was discontinued in 2005 as they wanted to move on from this generation and hopefully do better with the next one.

4th generation (2006-2009):

The fourth generation S4 continued to be a great car, with some new features and a slightly different design.

The fourth generation S4 was introduced in 2006 and became a great car. Some new features included updated exterior styling, a more powerful engine, and a revised suspension. The S4 remained a popular choice among Audi fans and was praised for its performance and luxury features, and many said it was a huge step forward for the platform compared to the previous generation.

5th generation (2010-2016):

The fifth generation S4 was introduced in 2010 and remained in production until 2016. It was based on the Audi A4 B8 platform and was powered by a 3.0L TFSI V6 engine. It was available in sedan and wagon body styles and could be equipped with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed S-tronic transmission. Standard features included Quattro all-wheel drive, xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, and 18-inch wheels.

The fifth generation S4 saw several significant changes from its predecessor. The most noticeable change was the switch from a naturally aspirated V8 engine to a turbocharged V6. This resulted in a substantial power reduction and made the S4 more fuel efficient. Another change for the fifth generation was the introduction of an optional 7-speed automatic transmission.

A note about the transmission is that there is a class action lawsuit right now about the transmission issue, so that is something to keep in mind. As mechanic work on an S4 can get VERY expensive after the warranty is done.

6th generation (2018-2021):

The sixth generation of the Audi S4, produced from 2018 to 2021, saw a return to the turbocharged V6 engine after a brief stint with a turbocharged inline-four. The new 3.0-liter V6 engine produced 354 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful S4 ever. Although it was only offered with all-wheel drive, the S4 could still reach 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds.

The sixth generation S4 also featured several other improvements over its predecessor. The interior was updated with new technology and materials, and the exterior received a refreshed look. In addition, the suspension and brakes were both upgraded for better performance. In my opinion, this gen was the perfect balance of aggressive stance coupled with the functionality expected of a 4 door.

Despite these upgrades, the sixth generation S4 was not without its problems. The most common complaints are with the Start/Stop system and the DSG Transmission Shifting acting up.

Here is a great video that breaks down the Audi against the current a4 which really shows why it is just such an amazing car:

Conclusion to the Audi S4 generations

Audi’s history is full of highs and lows, but one model has always been at the forefront of innovation and performance is the S4. The Audi S4 debuted in 1991 as the company’s performance-focused option for 100 sedans. It was powered by a 2.2-liter, 20-valve turbocharged inline-five engine that produced 232 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. This was mated to a five-speed manual transmission or an optional four-speed automatic.

The S4 is a great sports sedan that can be used every day. It featured good handling, a comfortable and quiet cabin, and excellent performance. The S4 turbocharged engine also put out fewer emissions than competitors’ normally aspirated V6 engines.

If you are looking for a great-looking, handling, and accelerating car, you should look at the S4. It is just essential to remember that with that S4 badge comes the possibility of expensive mechanic trips, insurance, and nothing less than premium gas. And, as a bonus some of the Audi cars do come with forged rims, which we have covered in another post to go over the pros of these types of rims.