Audi A4 B7: The Refined Choice
The Audi A4 B7: Underrated Classic
The Audi A4 B7 (2004-2008) often stands in the shadow of its predecessor B5 and successor B8. Yet precisely this intermediate position makes it an interesting used car.
Model Overview
Technical Data
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Production period | 2004-2008 |
| Platform | PL46 |
| Body variants | Sedan, Avant, Cabriolet |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive, Quattro |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual, Multitronic, Tiptronic |
Engine Range
| Engine | Power | Character | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.6 | 102 HP | Economical | Conditional |
| 1.8T | 163 HP | Balanced | Yes |
| 2.0 TFSI | 200 HP | Powerful | Yes |
| 2.0 TDI | 140 HP | Economical | Conditional |
| 3.2 FSI | 255 HP | Sporty | Yes |
| 3.0 TDI | 233 HP | Powerful | Yes |
Current Market Prices
Price Overview
| Variant | Mileage | Average Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1.8T | >150,000 km | €4,500-6,500 |
| 1.8T | 100-150,000 km | €6,500-9,000 |
| 2.0 TFSI | >150,000 km | €5,500-8,000 |
| 2.0 TFSI | 100-150,000 km | €8,000-12,000 |
| 3.2 FSI quattro | >100,000 km | €8,000-12,000 |
| S4 (4.2 V8) | >100,000 km | €15,000-25,000 |
| RS4 (4.2 V8) | >80,000 km | €35,000-55,000 |
Price Factors
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Quattro | +15-25% |
| S-line package | +5-10% |
| Avant vs. Sedan | +5-10% |
| Automatic | Variable |
| Complete history | +10-20% |
Why the B7 Is Underrated
Design Evolution
The B7 subtly refined the B6 design:
- Sharper grille
- Cleaner lines
- Higher quality interior materials
- Improved ergonomics
Technical Improvements
Over B6:
- Stiffer body (+30%)
- Revised rear axle
- Improved sound insulation
- More modern engine range
Over B8:
- More direct steering
- More analog driving feel
- Simpler technology
- Cheaper maintenance
Buying Guide
Recommended Engines
Petrol:
| Engine | Pro | Con |
|---|---|---|
| 1.8T | Proven, tuning-friendly | Older, turbo maintenance |
| 2.0 TFSI | Powerful, modern | Timing chain! |
| 3.2 FSI | V6 sound, sovereign | Timing chain, consumption |
Diesel:
| Engine | Pro | Con |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0 TDI (140 HP) | Economical | Pump-injector tech |
| 3.0 TDI | Strong pulling power | Higher price |
Known Weak Points
Engine/Drivetrain:
| Problem | Engine Type | Repair Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Timing chain | 2.0 TFSI, 3.2 FSI | €1,500-3,500 |
| Oil consumption | 2.0 TFSI | €800-2,000 |
| Turbocharger | 1.8T | €800-1,500 |
| DSG mechatronics | DSG gearbox | €1,200-2,500 |
Suspension/Body:
| Problem | Frequency | Repair Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Front control arms | High | €400-800 |
| Shock absorbers | Medium | €600-1,200 |
| Interior door handles | Medium | €50-150 |
Important Inspection Points
- Timing chain: Rattling on cold start?
- Oil consumption: Last 5,000 km documented?
- Control arms: Noises when steering?
- Transmission: DSG jerking, Multitronic slipping?
- Quattro: Transfer case oil changed?
The Sporty Variants
S4 (4.2 V8)
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.2 V8 FSI |
| Power | 344 HP |
| 0-100 km/h | 5.4 seconds |
| Average price | €18,000-25,000 |
Highlights:
- High-revving V8 naturally aspirated
- Quattro standard
- Sport differential optional
- Subtle appearance
RS4 (4.2 V8)
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.2 V8 FSI |
| Power | 420 HP |
| 0-100 km/h | 4.8 seconds |
| Average price | €40,000-55,000 |
Highlights:
- Highest naturally aspirated V8 in this class
- Legendary sound
- Collector potential
- Also as Avant and Cabriolet
Comparison with Competitors
B7 vs. E90 3 Series vs. W204 C-Class
| Aspect | Audi A4 B7 | BMW E90 | Mercedes W204 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Build quality feel | Very good | Good | Good |
| Driving dynamics | Good | Very good | Good |
| Comfort | Good | Good | Good |
| Reliability | Medium | Good | Medium |
| Price level | Low | Medium | Medium |
The B7 often offers the best value for money.
Value Stability
Price Development
| Period | Standard B7 | S4 | RS4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | €5,500 | €14,000 | €32,000 |
| 2022 | €6,200 | €17,000 | €38,000 |
| 2024 | €7,500 | €20,000 | €45,000 |
| Forecast 2026 | €8,500 | €24,000 | €55,000 |
RS4 and S4 particularly show strong value appreciation potential.
Our Recommendation
By Usage Profile
Commuters: A4 1.8T or 2.0 TDI
- Good efficiency
- Manageable maintenance
- Solid price level
Enthusiasts: A4 3.2 FSI quattro or S4
- V6/V8 experience
- Quattro driving dynamics
- Good value stability
Collectors: RS4
- Naturally aspirated icon
- Growing interest
- Three body styles
Conclusion
The Audi A4 B7 is the underrated classic of compact premium sedans. It offers Audi quality at fair prices, solid technology and timeless design.
Those seeking a reliable daily driver with premium aspirations will find an excellent choice in the B7. For collectors, S4 and RS4 are must-haves – prices continue to rise.
Price data from our current market analysis. As of: September 9, 2024