Audi RS6 C5: The Supercar Wagon
The Audi RS6 C5: A Legend Among Wagons
When Audi introduced the RS6 C5 in 2002, it redefined the super sport wagon segment. With 450 hp from a twin-turbo V8, it was the fastest wagon of its time and is now a coveted collector’s item.
Market Overview May 2024
Current Price Situation
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Price | €38,500 |
| Minimum | €22,000 |
| Maximum | €68,000 |
| Available Listings | 14 |
| Price Trend | +8% (12 months) |
Prices by Variant
| Variant | Average | Listings |
|---|---|---|
| RS6 Avant | €38,500 | 11 |
| RS6 Sedan | €42,000 | 3 |
| RS6 Plus (480 hp) | €58,000 | 1 |
Technical Specifications
The Legendary 4.2 Twin-Turbo V8
| Specification | RS6 | RS6 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,172 cc | 4,172 cc |
| Power | 450 hp | 480 hp |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 560 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h | 4.6 s | 4.4 s |
| Top Speed | 250 km/h (limited) | 280 km/h |
| Consumption | 15-20 l/100km | 15-22 l/100km |
Drivetrain
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 5-speed Tiptronic |
| Drive | quattro Permanent AWD |
| Power Distribution | 50:50 (variable) |
| Differential | Torsen rear |
Production Numbers
| Year | Avant | Sedan | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2002 | 2,134 | 412 | 2,546 |
| 2003 | 3,218 | 578 | 3,796 |
| 2004 | 2,856 | 498 | 3,354 |
| Total | 8,208 | 1,488 | 9,696 |
The low production numbers make the RS6 C5 a rare vehicle with corresponding collector value.
Common Problem Areas
Engine and Drivetrain
| Problem | Frequency | Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Turbocharger Wear | 35% | €3,000-6,000 |
| Timing Chain/Tensioner | 25% | €2,500-4,500 |
| Coolant Pipes (Plastic) | 45% | €800-1,500 |
| Throttle Body | 30% | €600-1,200 |
Critical: The original plastic coolant pipes are a known weak point and should be preventively replaced with aluminum versions.
Transmission
| Problem | Frequency | Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Tiptronic Control Unit | 20% | €1,500-2,500 |
| Torque Converter Wear | 15% | €2,000-3,500 |
| Mechatronics | 10% | €2,500-4,000 |
Suspension and Brakes
| Problem | Frequency | Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|
| DRC Dampers (if equipped) | 40% | €1,200-2,000 per unit |
| Brake System (wear) | - | €2,500-4,000 (complete) |
| Air Suspension (if equipped) | 30% | €800-1,500 per corner |
Mileage Analysis
Price Correlation
| Mileage | Average Price | Price Index |
|---|---|---|
| < 80,000 km | €52,000 | 135% |
| 80,000-120,000 km | €42,000 | 109% |
| 120,000-150,000 km | €35,000 | 91% |
| 150,000-180,000 km | €28,000 | 73% |
| > 180,000 km | €24,000 | 62% |
The correlation between mileage and price is -0.78, showing that mileage is an important price factor.
Equipment and Value Stability
Value-Stable Options
| Equipment | Price Advantage |
|---|---|
| Exclusive Package | +8-12% |
| Carbon Interior | +5-10% |
| Recaro Sports Seats | +5-8% |
| Ceramic Brakes | +10-15% |
| Black/Black | +3-5% |
Rarity Values
| Special Model | Production | Premium |
|---|---|---|
| RS6 Plus | ~999 | +40-60% |
| RS6 Sedan | 1,488 | +10-15% |
| Exclusive Colors | varies | +5-15% |
Comparison with Competitors (2002-2004)
| Model | Power | Average | Rarity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audi RS6 C5 Avant | 450 hp | €38,500 | Very rare |
| BMW M5 E39 Touring | 400 hp | €45,000 | Extremely rare |
| Mercedes E55 AMG S211 | 476 hp | €28,000 | More common |
| Jaguar S-Type R | 400 hp | €12,000 | Common |
Running Costs
Annual Costs (Average)
| Cost Factor | Amount |
|---|---|
| Insurance (Full) | €1,800 |
| Vehicle Tax | €580 |
| Maintenance/Year | €2,500 |
| Fuel (15,000 km) | €3,600 |
| Repair Reserve | €3,000 |
| Total | €11,480 |
Note: The RS6 C5 is not a cheap car to maintain. Potential buyers should expect annual costs of €10,000-15,000.
Buying Guide
What to Look For?
-
Service History:
- Complete service documentation
- Regular oil changes (max 10,000 km)
- Documented turbo inspections
-
Critical Components:
- Coolant pipes (aluminum upgrade?)
- Timing chain (noise on cold start?)
- Turbochargers (oil consumption, whistling?)
-
Condition:
- Rust-free sills, wheel arches
- Leather/Alcantara condition
- Function of all electronics
Best Purchase Options
For the Enthusiast:
- RS6 Avant with 100,000-130,000 km
- Complete service history
- Budget: €32,000-40,000
For the Collector:
- RS6 Plus or low mileage
- Exclusive package, desired color
- Budget: €50,000-65,000
Price Forecast
Expected Development
| Period | Forecast |
|---|---|
| 6 months | +3-5% |
| 1 year | +8-12% |
| 3 years | +20-30% |
| 5 years | +35-50% |
The RS6 C5 is in a value appreciation phase. As a rare vehicle with iconic status, it will continue to gain value.
Inspection Checklist
-
Engine:
- Observe cold start (timing chain?)
- Check oil level and condition
- Test boost pressure buildup
- Listen for turbo whistling
-
Drivetrain:
- Tiptronic shift behavior
- quattro function (AWD test)
- Transmission noises
-
Body:
- Sills and wheel arches for rust
- Inspect underbody
- Check panel gaps
-
Interior:
- Leather/Alcantara wear
- MMI function
- Air conditioning
Conclusion
The Audi RS6 C5 is more than just a fast wagon - it is an automotive work of art. With its characterful twin-turbo V8, the practical Avant format, and increasing rarity, it is one of the best investments in the performance wagon segment. The high running costs are compensated by driving pleasure and value appreciation potential.
All data based on our continuous market analysis. As of: May 20, 2024