- Refined and responsive V6 petrol engines
- Intuitive automatic transmission
- Well-insulated cabin
- Underwhelming handling
- Pedals at uneven heights
- Head restraints reduce rear vision
Overview
Released in November 1994, the Audi C4 A6 and A6 Avant were mid-size sedans and wagons, respectively. Manufactured in Neckarsulm, Germany, the Audi C4 A6 was based on the C4 platform which had underpinned the Audi 100 from 1991 to 1994. Compared to the C4 100 , the C4 A6 could be identified by its more rounded front and rear masks, new head- and tail-lights and radiator grille.
The A6 and A6 Avant range initially consisted of 2.6 variants which were powered by a 2.6-litre V6 petrol engine, mated to a four-speed automatic transmission and available with front- or four-wheel drive (Audi’s ‘quattro’ system). In 1997, the A6 and A6 Avant ranges were expanded with 2.8 variants which were powered by a more powerful 2.8-litre V6 engine.
| Variant | Drive | Years | Engine | Trans. | Peak power | Peak torque | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A6 | 2.6 | FWD, quattro |
1994-97 | 2.6-litre ABC petrol V6 | 4sp auto | 110 kW at 5500 rpm | 225 Nm at 3500 rpm |
| 2.8 | FWD, quattro |
1997 | 2.8-litre ACK petrol V6 | 5sp auto | 142 kW at 6000 rpm | 280 Nm at 3200 rpm | |
| A6 Avant | 2.6 | FWD, quattro |
1994-97 | 2.6-litre ABC petrol V6 | 4sp auto | 110 kW at 5500 rpm | 225 Nm at 3500 rpm |
| 2.8 | quattro | 1997 | 2.8-litre ACK petrol V6 | 5sp auto | 142 kW at 6000 rpm | 280 Nm at 3200 rpm |
Dimensions
The C4 A6 sedan was 4797 mm long, 1783 mm wide and 1420 mm tall. For front wheel drive models, the wheelbase was 2687 mm long, but this increased by 5 mm (to 2692 mm) for quattro models. Compared to the sedan, the Avant models had a 51 mm higher roofline (at 1471 mm).
quattro
The Audi C4 A6 and A6 Avant were available with a permanent four-wheel drive system which utilised a Torsen centre differential. In normal conditions, the system provided a 50:50 front:rear torque split. However, electronic differential locks on the front and rear axles could operate at speeds of up to 40 km/h to transfer torque from one axle to the other.
Safety equipment
Standard safety equipment for the Audi A6 and A6 Avant included a driver’s airbag and ABS. From September 1996, a front passenger airbag was fitted as standard.
Features
Standard features for the Audi A6 and A6 Avant included 16-inch alloy wheels, an eight speaker stereo with a CD player, climate control air conditioning, leather seats, cruise control, front fog lights, central locking, power windows and mirrors, a power sunroof and an immobiliser.
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