RE: S6 Variations - long

["Bob Rossato" <bob.rossato@worldnet.att.net>]

> Late model S6+ (that's "plus", only offered in europe) had an all aluminim
> (3.7 liter?) V8 motor, six speed manual transmission, RS2-like interior
> treatments, and S8 titanium brakes!
>
> One we can add to the list that never made it on our side of the pond :(
>
>

An acquaintance of mine from Germany sent me some Audi brochures a couple of
years ago.  Brochures is not the word for them, more like books.  In any
case I have in my grubby little hands the S6 and S6 Plus brochures.

It turns out that besides the 2.22L 5 cyl, the S6 was also available with a
4.2L all aluminum V8.  The S6 Plus also had the 4.2L V8 but with a bit more
zoobs.  Here are some of the specs.

			S6		S6 4.2		S6+
Displacement (cc)	2226		4172		4172
HP@RPM		230@5900	290@5800	326@6500
Torque (Nm)@RPM	350@1950	400@4000	400@3500
0-62mph (sec.)		6.8		5.9		5.6
Wheel Size		7.5x16		7.5x16		8x17
Tire Size		225/50		225/50		255/40
Transmission		5spd-M*	6spd-M**	6spd-M

* 6spd manual or 4spd automatic optional
** 4spd automatic optional

All three also available as an Avant.

The S6 Plus was available in 2 exclusive colors, Nagaro blue pearl effect
(pearl effect version of the RS2 blue) & Misano red pearl effect, though as
the catalog states you can custom order it in any color you want along with
other exclusive equipment.  Other things that set it apart from the plain
Jane S6 are:

-All black anodized exterior trim (Audi rings still chrome)

-Upholstered in black leather with either blue, silver-grey, or anthracite
alcantara seat and door inserts

-Instrument faces in either blue, light-grey, or anthracite

-Real carbon fibre dash & door trim pieces, burl walnut optional

-Standard Xenon lights

-Bigger front brakes with black painted calipers.  Brochure says 16" front
disc brakes but this has to be a misprint as they would never fit within 17"
wheels

Here are some excerpts from the S6 Plus brochure (fortunately it was printed
in German & English)

"The design qualities of the S6 plus are evident in its smooth contours,
elegant lines and striking details.  It's easily recognized, for example, by
the light-alloy 6-spoke wheels, or by the black anodized trim around the
roof and on the window cappings.  And, of course by the discreet S6 plus
emblem on the radiator grille and boot.  The overall effect is striking yet
unforced, with differences that are subtle and tasteful, not blunt or
obtrusive."

"In many cases, less can be more.  But just occasionally, more is more: the
V8, 4.2 litre engine with variable intake manifold produces 240 kW (326
bhp).  At only 3500 rpm, maximum torque of 400 Nm is at the driver's
disposal.  Even more driving pleasure is offered by the 6-speed manual
gearbox, sports suspension, permanent four wheel drive - and a top speed of
250 km/h (with soft cut-off).  When you think about it: restraint is often
the better choice."


Bob Rossato