Audi S4 Manual V8 Sedan: Sports sedans were completely insane in the mid-2000s, but in the best conceivable way. Mercedes responded with booming AMG V8s, Audi launched the renowned RS4 and BMW gave us the roaring E60 M5.
Beneath the cacophony, however was a car that performed nearly flawlessly and received very little recognition.
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Meet the 2006–2008 Audi S4, the manual V8 sedan that history quietly skipped over because its famous sibling stole the spotlight. And in 2026, that’s exactly why it’s such a compelling used buy.
The S4 Was Caught in the RS4’s Shadow
Audi wasted no time in raising the ante when it introduced the B7-generation A4 in 2005. With a 4.2-liter V8 naturally aspirated engine, Quattro all-wheel drive, and—above all—a six-speed manual transmission, the S4 was the first to arrive.
The S4 was Audi’s response to vehicles such as the Mercedes-AMG C55 and BMW E46 M3 at the time. It was swift, opulent and ruthlessly capable.
When the RS4 debuted in 2006, it immediately took center stage.
The RS4 became the poster car because to its flared fenders, powerful 420-hp V8 and hardware designed for the racetrack. The S4? silently ignored, despite the fact that it was still a superb performance sedan in its own right.
A Proper V8, No Turbochargers Required
This is where the B7 S4 really earn its cult status.
Under the hood sit a natural aspirate 4.2 liter V8 make 340 horsepower and 302 lb ft of torque. No turbos. No lag. Just instant throttle response and one of the best exhaust notes Audi ever put in a sedan.
Paired with:
- 6-speed manual transmission
- Quattro all-wheel drive
- 0–60 mph in ~5.2 seconds
It was quick enough to be exciting but refine enough to be used every single day something not every rival could claim.
Fast, Comfortable and Surprisingly Practical
Unlike some hardcore sports sedans of the era, the S4 didn’t punish you for driving it daily.
Yes, it’s heavy. Yes, the V8 sits far forward. And yes if you really push it you’ll feel a bit of understeer. But Audi tuned the suspension to strike a balance between performance and comfort.
That makes the S4:
- More relaxed than an M3
- More comfortable than an RS4
- Way better in bad weather thanks to Quattro
If you live somewhere with real winters, the S4 still makes a ton of sense—even today.
The Biggest Reason It’s So Cheap in 2026
Here’s the wild part.
In 2026 clean B7 S4s can be found for around $6,000–$9,000, while RS4s often demand $22,000 or more.
That price gap exists because:
- The RS4 became the icon
- The S4 never got the same hype
- Maintenance scares people away
But for buyers who know what they’re getting into, the S4 is one of the best performance-per-dollar deals from the 2000s.
What You Must Check Before Buying One
Let’s be honest—this isn’t a cheap car to neglect.
The biggest concern is the timing chain system which sits at the back of the engine. Poor oil maintenance can lead to failure and repairs are expensive. Cold-start rattles, ticking noise or rough idle are major red flags.
Other known issues include:
- Oil consumption
- Carbon buildup on intake valves
- Cooling system components wearing out
A well-maintained S4 with full service records is the one you want. A neglected one can quickly empty your wallet.
Which Should You Purchase, the S4 or the RS4?
If your priority is raw performance and track capability the RS4 still win. Its wider body, higher-revving V8, and advanced suspension make it the sharper weapon.
But if you want:
- A V8 sports sedan you can actually daily
- A manual gearbox without spending $20K+
- Comfort, sound, and all-weather grip
The S4 is the smarter buy for most enthusiast in 2026.
Why You Should Take Another Look at the Ignored S4
One of those vehicles that leaves you wondering how it got away with it is the B7 Audi S4. For used car money, you can get a naturally aspirated V8, a manual transmission, Quattro AWD, and true practicality.
Even while it doesn’t have the RS badge, it offers something as valuable: a full-fat V8 sensation that never gets old.
And truthfully? Perhaps its greatest benefit is that it is ignored.
FAQs
Q: Is the B7 Audi S4 reliable?
A: It can be if properly maintained. Timing chain issue are the biggest concern so service history is critical.
Q: Is the S4 good for daily driving?
A: Yes Compare to the RS4 the S4 is more comfortable, quiet and better suited to everyday use.
Q: Manual or automatic which is better?
A: The 6-speed manual is the enthusiast’s choice and the one that hold the most appeal today.