The B7 Audi RS4 abandoned the original RS4’s twin-turbo V6 for a naturally aspirated engine that revved beyond 8,000rpm. Add a manual gearbox, three body styles and rear-biased quattro, and the result was one of Audi Sport’s most distinctive cars.
1. It appeared first as a saloon
The B5 RS4 had been Avant-only. Audi reversed expectations in 2005 by launching the B7 as a four-door, with Avant and Cabriolet versions following.
2. Its V8 produced 420PS without turbochargers
The 4,163cc FSI unit made 420PS at 7,800rpm and revved beyond 8,000rpm. Its response and soundtrack define the car far more than low-rev torque.
3. Every B7 RS4 was manual
A six-speed manual was standard in all three body styles. No automatic or dual-clutch alternative was offered.
4. Quattro became rear-biased
The Torsen system adopted a nominal 40:60 front-to-rear torque split, helping the RS4 feel more adjustable and less nose-led than many earlier fast Audis.
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5. Dynamic Ride Control had no electronic actuators
DRC hydraulically linked diagonally opposite dampers to oppose roll and pitch. Its effectiveness was real, although pressure loss and leaking dampers became recognised age-related faults.
6. The Cabriolet was a genuine factory RS4
It was heavier and less rigid than the saloon or Avant, but shared the 420PS engine, manual gearbox and widened body. It remains one of very few open four-seat RS models.
7. The engine’s quoted output can be affected by carbon deposits
Direct injection leaves no fuel washing the intake valves. Deposits can accumulate, so health should be judged through diagnostics and specialist inspection rather than internet assumptions.
8. Later Audi V8s did not repeat the same recipe
Later RS4 generations moved to dual-clutch transmissions and turbocharging. The B7 remains the only RS4 combining a high-revving naturally aspirated V8 with a manual.
9. The wide arches were model-specific
Broader bodywork, oval exhausts and deeper bumpers transformed the A4 without losing its basic outline. The restrained approach has aged well.
10. The Avant is not automatically the best version
The estate continues the RS tradition, the saloon offers the purest proportions and the Cabriolet provides unique theatre. Condition, DRC health and history matter more than a simple body-style hierarchy.
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Sources
- Audi Tradition and Audi Sport historical material.
- Unusual Cars RS4 B7 guide
