Verdict
A
BHP
444 bhp
0–60
4.6 s
Top speed
155 mph
MPG
14 mpg (US)
Used
$10,000-$28,000
Strengths
- 4.2 biturbo V8 — Cosworth-built
- Avant only — sleeper estate
- DRC suspension
Weaknesses
- Turbo seal failures
- Heavy thirst
- 5AT only
Notable tech
- C5 platform (A6 sibling)
- 4.2 biturbo V8 (Cosworth-built)
- Avant body only
- Quattro Torsen
- 5-speed Tiptronic
- DRC (Dynamic Ride Control) suspension
- Plus model — 480 bhp
Common issues
- Turbo seal failures
- DRC suspension wear
- 5AT mechatronic
Engine derivatives
US-spec trims and engines offered across C5's life. Click any two rows to compare them side-by-side.
4.2 biturbo V8 quattro Avant
BHP444
Torque561 Nm
0–604.6 s
Top155 mph
MPG (US)14 mpg
DriveAWD
Gearbox5AT
RS6 plus 4.2 biturbo Avant
BHP480
Torque561 Nm
0–604.4 s
Top174 mph
MPG (US)14 mpg
DriveAWD
Gearbox5AT