1992-1997 Audi 100/S4/A6/S6: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
1997 Audi 100/S4/A6/S6
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1992-1997 Audi 100/S4/A6/S6
- Price Range: $700 - $5,500
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1992-1997 Audi 100/S4/A6/S6 and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Antilock brakes
- Acceleration (S6)
- All-wheel drive (Quattro)
- Passenger and cargo room
- Steering/handling
Cons
- Fuel economy
- Rear visibility
- Automatic-transmission performance
- Instruments/controls
- Ride
Vehicle Highlights
Rounded restyling of Audi's midsize premium sedan kept dimensions close to the former 100/200 series. A V6 went under the hood for the first time, replacing the inline 5-cylinder engine. Dimensions were nearly identical to the prior cars, inside and out, but curb weight grew by some 250 pounds. Three versions went on sale: 100, 100 S, and 100 CS. Each could have either 5-speed manual shift or a 4-speed automatic transmission. A driver-side airbag and antilock disc brakes were standard. All-wheel-drive 100 CS Quattro versions came later in the 1992 model year: both a sedan and a station wagon. The Quattro wagon had a standard automatic transmission--a "first" for any Audi all-wheel-drive model. Also arriving later was a limited-production, high-performance S4 edition (successor to the previous 200 Quattro), with manual shift and a 227-horsepower turbocharged version of the old 5-cylinder engine.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Audi 100 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 4 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 48 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1992-1997 Audi 100/S4/A6/S6. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1992-1997 Audi 100/S4/A6/S6.
Year to Year Changes
1993 Audi 100/S4/A6/S6:
A passenger-side airbag was added in the 100's second year. A front-drive station wagon arrived late in the season, with a third seat in the rear for 7-passenger capacity.
1994 Audi 100/S4/A6/S6:
Few significant changes took place for 1994. The base-level sedan disappeared, leaving only a 100 S sedan and wagon, and a CS sedan.
1995 Audi 100/S4/A6/S6:
Facelifting for '95 was accompanied by a badge change, to A6 and high-performance S6. Body changes included new front and rear fascias, a new hood, revised bodyside moldings, and new ellipsoid headlights. The A6 came as a 4-door sedan and 5-door wagon, with front-wheel drive or Quattro permanent all-wheel drive. Only offered as a sedan, the S6 had a turbocharged 5-cylinder engine, larger wheels and tires, a firmer suspension, twin exhaust pipes, and wheelwell flares.
1996 Audi 100/S4/A6/S6:
No high-performance S6 went on sale for '96, but new Electronic Differential Locking for the A6 improved low-speed traction on slippery surfaces. One-touch power windows were also installed. An automatic transmission now was standard in the A6 sedan, deleting the 5-speed manual gearbox.
1997 Audi 100/S4/A6/S6:
A glass sunroof joined the option list, replacing a steel sunroof. A revised central locking system incorporated the fuel filler door, the interior lights added a fade out feature, and a new Quattro option package included 16-inch wheels and the sunroof.
Our road test for the 1992-1997 Audi 100/S4/A6/S6 includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1992-1997 Audi 100/S4/A6/S6 and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1992-1997 Audi 100/S4/A6/S6 is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Though smaller than most engines in its class, acceleration with the V6 is lively with the 5-speed, but only adequate with 4-speed automatic, which shifts harshly and does not always downshift as needed. The 2.8-liter engine does not produce much torque at low speeds, so a heavy throttle foot is required for good pickup. Also, the automatic is often stuck in too high a gear to maximize available power. Audi's manual gearbox, on the other hand, is one of the smoothest around. Handling and roadholding rank at or near the top of the performance-oriented luxury-sedan class, but the earlier model's chassis seems to transmit every bump to occupants. High-performance S4/S6 sedans promise an even harder ride. Steering response is excellent; brakes are strong and sure. All models have ample room for four passengers and their luggage. Two rear occupants will enjoy plenty of head and leg room, but a third could be cramped. The wagon's folding third seat is intended mainly for children. Interior appointments are first-rate. Though the dashboard is convenient, the automatic climate controls for the A6 are mounted low and consist of several small buttons with mysterious markings. Visibility is good to the front and sides, but a pair of huge rear headrests blocks the A6 view directly rearward.
Value for the Money
The capable midsize Audi performs well, looks great, but still lags in overall value. Except for the extra traction of an Audi Quattro model, the rival Acura Legend was a better choice than Audi's 100 when new, and remains so today.
The capable midsize Audi performs well, looks great, but still lags in overall value. Except for the extra traction of an Audi Quattro model, the rival Acura Legend was a better choice than Audi's 100 when new, and remains so today.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Audi 100 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 4 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 48 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Audi 100/S4/A6/S6 includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Audi 100/S4/A6/S6 .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Dashboard lights:
Driving with less than 3 gallons of fuel in the tank may illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp caused by a lean misfire. (1995)
Dashboard lights:
If the wrong thermostat (too cold) is installed, it will trigger the malfunction indicator lamp. (1992-97)
Fuel gauge:
The fuel gauge may not read accurately due to a loose ground wire at the left taillight. (1993-95)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $1,065 |
| Alternator | $615 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,460 |
| Brakes | $275 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $870 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $670 |
| Exhaust System | $700 |
| Radiator | $640 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $840 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $240 |
Our price chart for this generation Audi 100/S4/A6/S6 details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 1997 | |||
| A6 | $3,000-3,700 | $2,300-2,800 | $700-900 |
| A6 Quattro | $3,700-4,400 | $3,000-3,600 | $1,100-1,300 |
| 1996 | |||
| A6 | $2,400-3,000 | $1,700-2,200 | $500-600 |
| A6 Quattro | $3,100-3,800 | $2,400-3,000 | $700-900 |
| 1995 | |||
| A6 | $2,000-2,600 | $1,400-1,800 | $300-400 |
| A6 Quattro | $2,700-3,300 | $2,000-2,500 | $600-700 |
| S6 | $5,300-6,400 | $4,600-5,500 | $2,200-2,600 |
| 1994 | |||
| 100 | $1,600-2,200 | $1,100-1,500 | $200-300 |
| 100 Quattro | $2,300-2,900 | $1,700-2,100 | $400-600 |
| S4 | $4,200-5,200 | $3,400-4,300 | $1,400-1,800 |
| 1993 | |||
| 100 | $1,300-1,800 | $800-1,100 | $200 |
| 100 Quattro | $2,000-2,600 | $1,400-1,800 | $300-400 |
| S4 | $3,600-4,500 | $2,900-3,600 | $1,000-1,300 |
| 1992 | |||
| 100 | $1,100-1,600 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| 100 Quattro | $1,800-2,300 | $1,200-1,600 | $300 |
| S4 | $3,200-4,000 | $2,500-3,100 | $800-1,000 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Audi 100/S4/A6/S6 include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door sedan | 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 105.8 | 105.8 |
| Overall Length, in. | 192.6 | 192.6 |
| Overall Width, in. | 70.2 | 70.2 |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.3 | 57.7 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3428 | 3582 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 16.8 | 64.4 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 21.1 | 21.1 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 7 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.3 | 38.4 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.4 | 42.4 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.6 | 39.1 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 34.8 | 34.2 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Both the 100-series and its A6 successor use a 2.8-liter V6 engine that delivers 172 horsepower. A turbocharged, dual overhead-cam 5-cylinder engine powers the S4 and later S6 high performance editions. Those two models came only with 5-speed manual shift. Audi's 100-series and the early A6 might have either a 5-speed or automatic transmission, but later A6 models all have automatics.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohc V6 | 2.8 / 169 | 172 | 184 | 4-speed manual: 19/25 5-speed manual: 19/25 |
4-speed manual: -- 5-speed manual: 18 |
| Turbocharged dohc I5 | 2.2 / 136 | 227 | 256 | 5-speed manual: 18/23 | 5-speed manual: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Germany
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/front- or all-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Audi 100/S4/A6/S6 include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1997 A6/S6 Quattro |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1992-1997 Audi 100/S4/A6/S6 directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1992 100:
In the presence of humidity, an electrolyte leak in the rear speakers may cause an unwanted conductive path.
1992 w/V6 and automatic:
Blades in brake-vacuum-booster pump can wear prematurely, causing reduced assist pressure when pedal is applied; could increase stopping distance.
1992-93:
Some airbag sensors do not comply with Audi's durability standards.
1992-95 S4/S6:
Fuel feed line connecting fuel filter to engine can prematurely age and shrink, resulting in fuel seepage.
1993-94:
Fuel feed line connecting fuel filter to engine may have been improperly manufactured and could leak.
1993-95 w/V6 engine:
Internal seal of fuel injector can malfunction, allowing fuel leakage.
1994-96:
Defective ignition switch can cause some accessories (turn signals, lamps, wipers) to malfunction when engine is started.
1995-97:
Discharge of static electricity in low-humidity conditions can activate driver's airbag when driver enters or exits car.
1997 A6:
Rear seatbelt retractors may not lock properly, or may not remain locked.
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