Audi B5 S4: The Affordable Performance Classic
The Underrated Biturbo Hero
While the BMW E39 M5 and Mercedes E55 AMG dominate the headlines, the Audi S4 B5 (1997-2002) lives in the shadows. Unjustly so, as the compact all-wheel-drive sports sedan offers eye-level performance at a fraction of the price.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.7L V6 Biturbo (AGB/AZB) |
| Power | 265 hp (stock) |
| Torque | 400 Nm at 1,850 rpm |
| Drivetrain | quattro AWD |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| 0-100 km/h | 5.6 seconds |
| Weight | 1,620 kg |
The 2.7 Biturbo is known for its enormous tuning potential. With simple modifications, 350+ hp is achievable.
Current Market Situation
Audi B5 S4 Price Analysis
| Condition | Average | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Project car | EUR 4,500 | EUR 2,500-6,500 |
| Ready to drive | EUR 6,234 | EUR 5,000-8,500 |
| Well-maintained | EUR 9,800 | EUR 8,000-12,500 |
| Top condition | EUR 14,500 | EUR 12,000-18,000 |
For comparison: The BMW E39 M5 costs an average of EUR 34,989 - more than five times as much.
Price Development
The B5 generation shows positive development:
- 2023: Average EUR 5,200
- 2024: Average EUR 5,800
- 2025: Average EUR 6,234
- Trend: +10% annually
Why the S4 B5 is Undervalued
1. Performance per Euro
| Model | Average Price | HP | EUR/HP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audi S4 B5 | EUR 6,234 | 265 | EUR 23.52 |
| BMW E46 330i | EUR 7,056 | 231 | EUR 30.55 |
| BMW E39 540i | EUR 8,147 | 286 | EUR 28.49 |
| Mercedes W210 E55 | EUR 15,500 | 354 | EUR 43.79 |
The S4 offers the best performance-to-price ratio in the segment.
2. Quattro Advantage
The permanent all-wheel drive offers:
- Superior traction in all weather conditions
- Better acceleration from standstill
- Safety reserves during spirited driving
- Year-round usability
3. Tuning-Friendly
The 2.7 Biturbo can be upgraded in stages:
| Stage | Power | Cost | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stock | 265 hp | - | Factory |
| Stage 1 | 310 hp | EUR 500-800 | Software tune |
| Stage 2 | 350 hp | EUR 2,000-3,500 | Turbo upgrade + software |
| Stage 3 | 400+ hp | EUR 5,000-8,000 | Big turbos + internals |
Known Weak Points
Engine and Turbochargers
Turbocharger Wear:
- Symptoms: Whistling sounds, oil consumption, power loss
- Repair costs: EUR 2,000-4,000 (both turbos)
- Recommendation: Have inspected before purchase
Crankcase Ventilation:
- Often clogged
- Leads to oil consumption and leaks
- Inexpensive DIY fix possible
Transmission and Drivetrain
01E Transmission:
- Generally robust
- 1st/2nd gear synchros wear with sporty use
- Repair: EUR 1,500-2,500
Rear Differential Lock (optional):
- Rare, but value-adding
- Definitely test when buying
Suspension and Body
Front Strut Mounts:
- Wear regularly
- Cost: EUR 400-600
Rust:
- Check sills and wheel arches
- Fender lower edges
- Rear window frame
Buying Guide: What to Check
Must-Have Checks
-
Turbocharger Test:
- Measure boost pressure (1.0-1.2 bar stock)
- Check for shaft bearing play
- Inspect oil return lines
-
Service Records:
- Timing belt change history (every 120,000 km)
- Transmission oil changes
- Differential oil
-
Rust Control:
- Sills from underneath
- Wheel arches inside
- Strut towers and longitudinal members
Recommended Features
| Feature | Value | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| 6-speed manual | Standard | Only available option |
| Recaro seats | +EUR 500-1,000 | Rare, highly sought |
| Differential lock | +EUR 1,000-2,000 | Performance advantage |
| Xenon headlights | +EUR 200-400 | Practical |
| Avant (wagon) | +EUR 500-1,000 | Rare as S4 |
Comparison with Competition
Audi S4 B5 vs BMW E46 330i
| Aspect | S4 B5 | E46 330i |
|---|---|---|
| Price | EUR 6,234 | EUR 7,056 |
| Power | 265 hp | 231 hp |
| Drivetrain | AWD | RWD |
| 0-100 km/h | 5.6 s | 6.5 s |
| Tuning potential | Very high | Medium |
| Running costs | Higher | Lower |
Verdict: The S4 offers more performance, the E46 lower operating costs.
Audi S4 B5 vs Mercedes W210 E55 AMG
| Aspect | S4 B5 | W210 E55 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | EUR 6,234 | EUR 15,500 |
| Power | 265 hp | 354 hp |
| Drivetrain | AWD | RWD |
| Character | Sporty-compact | Luxury cruiser |
| Appreciation | Moderate | Strong |
Verdict: The E55 has more prestige, the S4 is the better value proposition.
Investment Potential
Value Forecast
| Timeframe | Expected Development |
|---|---|
| 1-2 years | +8-12% |
| 3-5 years | +20-30% |
| 5-10 years | +40-60% |
The S4 B5 is at the beginning of its collector career. Prices are rising, but slower than M and AMG models.
Why Buy Now?
- Still affordable: Good examples available under EUR 10,000
- Community: Strong scene with good parts support
- Tuning base: Excellent platform for modifications
- Practicality: More practical than pure sports cars
Best Buying Recommendations
Budget Option (EUR 5,000-7,000)
- B5 A4/S4 with 180,000-220,000 km
- Partial service history
- Turbos still intact, but age-related
- Perfect as tuning base
Sensible-Sporty (EUR 8,000-12,000)
- 130,000-180,000 km
- Complete history
- Original condition or tastefully modified
- Solid long-term investment
Collector Quality (EUR 14,000+)
- Under 100,000 km
- Complete Audi service book
- Rare colors or equipment
- Unmodified
Conclusion
The Audi S4 B5 is the performance bargain in the German premium segment. For the price of an average BMW E46, you get a vehicle with:
- More power
- All-wheel drive
- Enormous tuning potential
- Growing collector value
The turbocharger topic requires attention when buying, but a well-maintained example rewards with unique driving pleasure at a fraction of comparable alternatives.
Price data from our current market analysis. More details on the B5 model page. As of: August 18, 2025