Audi RS6 C5
Audi RS6 C5 (2002–2006): condition, documents, inspection and conditions of sale of the car.
Indicative purchase price
Below market value
Final price agreed after inspection.
Value my car1Why buyers choose this model
The Audi RS6 is the third car of the cult series. It all started in 1994, when Porsche and the RS2 were created.
2What buyers check
Model history
The Audi RS6 is the third car of the cult series. It all started in 1994, when Porsche and the RS2 were created. Its successor, the RS4, didn’t make its debut until 2000. The next bold step of the German brand from Ingolstadt was the RS6, a representative of the higher E-Class, introduced in 2000. Unlike the RS2 and RS4, the car was offered not only as a station wagon (Avant), but also in the body of the sedan.
The RS6 was developed by quattro GmbH, a subsidiary of Audi AG located in Neckarsulm, Germany, near Stuttgart. The model was produced only two years. There was no facelift, but at the end of the day, a limited edition version of the RS6+ came to market. How was it different from the standard? The power unit received an additional power charge, which allowed to increase the maximum speed limit. The modified engine was manufactured by Cosworth Technology, a British company specializing in motors for motor racing. To improve the efficiency of the cooling system, a second radiator was installed.
The base RS6+ received components such as active DRC suspension, 19-inch alloy wheels, as well as perforated brake discs. Audi also offered the option to reduce ground clearance by 10mm at no additional cost. The steering mechanism was also modified. Only 999 Audi RS6+ models were produced, which was offered only as an Avant (wagon). In total, the RS6 C5 was more than 8000 cars.
Engine
Gasoline: 4. 2 V8 bi-turbo (450-480 hp). For the average Audi RS6 without insignia will seem the usual A6 C5. The differences between these models will be revealed after a few minutes of driving a more powerful version. The car accelerates almost as fast as a jet, and looks like a roomy “casket”. This stunning effect was achieved only thanks to a huge V8 under the hood. To improve the performance, engineers equipped it with two turbochargers. Some critics argue that in a true sports car, the engine should be only atmospheric. Delusion! The dual-charged V8 is one of the best units because it guarantees aggressive sound and excellent traction in almost any rev range. The maximum torque of 560 Nm is available since 1950 rpm, and allows you to be satisfied with them up to the mark on the tachometer 6000 rpm. Depending on the version, the maximum power is 450 or 480 hp. The top version is designed for the limited edition RS6+. The normal RS6 accelerates to 250 km / h, for the RS6+ the limit was increased to 280 km / h. Interestingly, acceleration to 100 km / h, regardless of the power of the power unit takes 4.9 seconds. A huge reserve of forces, aggressive sound and excellent dynamic characteristics constantly provoke to press the gas pedal into the floor. However, do not forget to regularly monitor the remaining amount of fuel. Sometimes its stock is only 200 km. It's no joke! 25 litres per 100km in the city is nothing surprising.
Design features
The power unit in the RS6 is located longitudinally. Torque is continuously distributed to all 4 wheels through the 5-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission with sequential switching mode and the Quattro all-wheel drive system with Torsen central differential.
In the chassis of the car, both in front and behind, a multi-link scheme is used. There are also DRC suspension units with variable characteristics on the market, the standard for all RS6+.
In the crash tests of EuroNCAP, the German car performed poorly – received only 3 stars. The main competitors from BMW and Mercedes were much safer.
Typical problems and malfunctions
The Audi RS6 C5 is not young anymore, and due to its sporty nature, many components undergo significant wear and tear – faster than in the regular A6. Problems are delivered by the electronics and mechanics of the Tiptronic box. If the transmissions are turned on rudely, the switches are made at the wrong time or do not occur at all - this is a clear signal that you need to meet with a professional mechanic. Most often refuse: gear selector, hydraulic transformer, speed sensors at the entrance and exit, as well as a controller responsible for the correct operation of the machine.
Another serious drawback is the leakage of working fluid from shock absorbers, costing several hundred dollars. The problem is with DRC-equipped instances and all copies of the RS6+ series. Fortunately, variable performance shock absorbers can be replaced with softer, standard ones. In the suspension premature replacement may require racks and sleeves of stabilizers, aluminum suspension levers.
Often there are leaks in the area of the radiator and the pump power steering. If you have never experienced the operation of a sports car, you should know that it requires more frequent replacement of tires, brake pads and discs.
3Pre-purchase checklist
Engine
- The mechanical part of the problem is almost not.
Typical problems and malfunctions
- The Audi RS6 C5 is not young anymore, and due to its sporty nature, many components undergo significant wear and tear – faster than in the regular A6.
- Problems are delivered by the electronics and mechanics of the Tiptronic box.
- If the transmissions are turned on rudely, the switches are made at the wrong time or do not occur at all - this is a clear signal that you need to meet with a professional mechanic.
- Most often refuse: gear selector, hydraulic transformer, speed sensors at the entrance and exit, as well as a controller responsible for the correct operation of the machine.
- The problem is with DRC-equipped instances and all copies of the RS6+ series.
4Challenges of selling privately
Who would have thought a few years ago that for 500 000 rubles it will be possible to buy a 400-horsepower sports car, which fits not only children, wife, mother-in-law and dog, but also will have a lot of room for bags. All passengers will appreciate excellent driving performance and rich equipment, and the driver - an effective all-wheel drive system and sports dynamics.
It might seem like the perfect car for a dad with a racing ambition. But, unfortunately, the Audi RS6 is capable of significantly undermining the family budget. All spare parts are expensive, and there are not so many compatible with the usual A6 C5. They will also make frequent visits to the gas station. So, if you dream of such a car, then you should carefully compare the income with the possible expenses.
- The Audi RS6 is the third car of the cult series.
- Engine: The mechanical part of the problem is almost not.
- Design features: The power unit in the RS6 is located longitudinally.
- Typical problems and malfunctions: The Audi RS6 C5 is not young anymore, and due to its sporty nature, many components undergo significant wear and tear – faster than in the regular A6.
Shows, bargaining and re-registration take time: buyers look, promise to think and disappear. Fair price after inspection closes the auction on the spot. If money is needed urgently, the purchase takes away waiting and repeat displays.
5How selling to us works
Leave a request with the car data. We will discuss the preliminary assessment and inspection. After checking the status and documents, we agree on the final price and terms of the transaction.

