The S4 is no stranger to these pages, offering enthusiasts a “have-your-cake-and-throw-it-squarely-at-that-M3-owner’s-face-too†package that combined functionality and sport in a very discrete wrapper. Well, for the most part they were discrete; most were ordered in shades of gray because a fair amount of people ponying up new were conservative with everything but the money they were paying for this small executive wagon. Lightly optioned, an S4 was about $50,000 in 2004; for comparison’s sake, that’s the equivalent of $25k more than a current S4. That sticker shock masks that the B6 and B7 represented a huge price increase over the B5 generation; out the door, the cost on average about 20% – 30% more only 3 years later – but then, they offered a full 90 horsepower advantage over the twin-turbocharged V6 with that awesome 4.2 V8, which of course could still be combined with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Subtle though the exterior colors may be, the performance on tap was anything but.
While they sold pretty well out of the box, the reality was that they had a reputation for not being the most reliable car – mostly, this was deserved. Coupled with strong depreciation and poor upkeep, this means that finding an early B6 S4 in good shape is pretty hard today. But one dealer has no less than two in pristine condition – likely the result of their combined 40k miles from new. Let’s take a look at the lower-mileage example first:
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 2004 Audi S4 on eBay
Year: 2004
Model: S4
VIN: WAUPL68E24A268814
Engine: 4.2 liter V8
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Mileage: 11,400 mi
Location: Glen Cove, New York
Price: $39,995 Buy It Now
2004 Audi S4 (B6) 6-Speed Quattro AWD Sedan: With a bellowing yet sophisticated 4.2-Liter V8 delivering a potent 340-hp and providing an enlivening soundtrack (because this specimen is equipped with a Milltek Sport exhaust system, you can expect greater audible satisfaction) accompanied by poised and beautifully direct driving dynamics, the B6 S4 is a captivatingly reactive performer and emits a rather special aura that’s immensely intriguing.
Completed in Brilliant Black, showcased on the notable Avus wheels with a cabin lined in Black Nappa Leather, the 11,XXX-mile example offered is 1 of around 2,857 manual operated B6 S4 sedans sold in the U.S featuring the 2004 model year designation, displays a Clean CARFAX Report, and features a range of comfort and convenience equipment (BOSE Audio, a sunroof, dual-zone climate control, front heated seats, plus more).
Upon viewing this spirited S4, your presence is welcomed by its sharp Brilliant Black finish that rightfully enwraps its sleek meets muscular aesthetic arrangement; the esteemed 18-inch Avus wheels; a subtly protruding decklid spoiler; ‘S4’ badging found on the front grill and on trunk’s lower region; the characteristic Alu-optic mirror housings; dual-outlet exhaust tips bearing a bright-finish.
When slipping inside of its driver-aligned Black Nappa Leather lined cabin, you’re met by Recaro seats that are aesthetically-elevated by light-finished stitching and “Recaro” insignia and once inside you can expect to find dark wood and bright-finished trim on select areas and carpeting that’s finished in black. The driver is met by a leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel featuring “S4” insignia; gray instrumentation dials situated behind white needles with the tachometer featuring “S4” branding; the charismatic 6-speed transmission’s black leather-wrapped shift boot. Front occupants are embraced by heated and power-adjustable seats and can expect an audio entertainment experience via the BOSE Audio system.
For more info on this lively S4 sedan, offered by Ryan Friedman Motor Cars, call and/or text us now at 516-217-2580; we’re authentic motor car aficionados, let’s chat!
Were I going to get one of these cars, double black would probably not be what I chose. The S4 feels very tight inside, and the all-black cabin doesn’t help that. These also had some really great colors; Nogaro Blue Pearl Effect and Imola Yellow, most notably, but if you want to fly under the radar this is probably your example. $40k doesn’t come close to buying you an equivalent M3, though it is only about 12k away from the new S4 base price. So let’s see what (only) a few more miles do to the ask:
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 2005 Audi S4 on eBay
Year: 2005
Model: S4
VIN: WAUPL68E45A054229
Engine: 4.2 liter V8
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Mileage: 27,800 mi
Location: Glen Cove, New York
Price: $34,995 Buy It Now
2005 Audi S4 (B6) 6-Speed Quattro AWD Sedan: 1 of around 2,045 manual operated B6 S4 sedans sold in the U.S boasting the 2005 model year designation. Swathed in Brilliant Black, showcased on the notable Avus wheels with a cabin lined in Black Nappa Leather. It exhibits an odometer reading of a low 27, XXX miles from new, displays a Clean CARFAX Report, and features a range of comfort and convenience equipment (front heated seats, BOSE Audio, a sunroof, dual-zone climate control, plus more). With a bellowing yet sophisticated 4.2-Liter V8 delivering a potent 340-hp and providing an enlivening soundtrack accompanied by poised and beautifully direct driving dynamics, the B6 S4 is a captivatingly reactive performer and emits a rather special aura that’s immensely intriguing.
Upon viewing this sultry S4, your presence is welcomed by its dapper Brilliant Black finish that befittingly envelopes its sleek meets muscular aesthetic arrangement; the renowned 18-inch Avus wheels; a subtly protruding decklid spoiler; ‘S4’ badging found on the front grill and on trunk’s lower region; the characteristic Alu-optic mirror housings; dual-outlet exhaust tips bearing a bright-finish.When slipping inside of its driver-pitched Black Nappa Leather upholstered cabin, you’re met by Recaro seats characterized by piping, stitching, and “Recaro” insignia and once inside you can expect to find dark wood and bright-finished trim on select areas and carpeting that’s finished in black. The driver is met by a leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel featuring “S4” insignia; gray instrumentation dials situated behind white needles with the tachometer featuring “S4” branding; the charismatic 6-speed transmission’s black leather-wrapped shift boot. Front occupants are embraced by heated and power-adjustable seats and can expect an audio entertainment experience via the BOSE Audio system.For more info on this stimulating S4 sedan, offered by Ryan Friedman Motor Cars, call and/or text us now at 516-217-2580; we’re authentic motor car aficionados, let’s chat!
Hmmm, at first glance you’d be forgiven for thinking this is exactly the same car. However, this one is a 2005, has 16k more miles, and the calipers are red. Are these changes worth a discount? It’s a not-inconsiderable 5k in your pocket for what looks to outwardly be effectively the same car, so it’s probably the smarter choice. I suppose if you showed up at a cars and coffee event, the lower-mileage first-year model would be a bigger trump card, but otherwise either looks pretty close to showroom fresh. Pick the latter and you’ll have money to do the timing chain guides; pick the former and you’ve got a better-sounding exhaust system. Would I pick either? Probably not, to be honest. These just aren’t my favorite Audis and IMO don’t compare favorably to the M3 – or, for that matter, the D2 S8 I just looked at, which is a lot cheaper. Still, if you want to be the proud owner of one of the two best-of-what’s-left B6 S4s out there, you should probably call this dealer.
-Carter
