Find out how it feels to drive with a used Audi S4 engine for sale. Famous as a powerful 4.2L V8, this engine provides splendid acceleration and the kind of roar that lovers of power will appreciate. This engine generates 340 horsepower and 302 lb-ft of torque, which makes it responsive for a fun, fast, and exciting drive. Whether you are looking for a replacement or integrating a quality used Audi S4 engine into your build, choosing this 4.2L V8 means choosing an engine that is reliable, capable, and perfectly suited to the high-performance characteristics expected from Audi's sport sedans. Get a closer look at this legendary engine and learn how it can help take your motoring to another level.
The Iconic 4.2L V8 Audi S4 Engine The 4.2L V8 engine is a spectacular powerplant in the Audi S4 that promises strong performance and a bright, powerful sound within Audi's range. This particular engine is used in the B6 and B7 Audi S4 models and churns out 340 horsepower and 302 lb-ft of torque. The V8 engine configuration, with a 90-degree cylinder bank angle and dual overhead camshafts, offers free-revving and responsive power. The engine contains a forged steel crankshaft and has an aluminum alloy body, making it both strong and lightweight.
Looking specifically for a 2005 Audi S4 engine? The 2005 model year falls within the B6 generation production run (2003 to 2005), which used the BBK engine code variant of this 4.2L V8. The 2005 model year was the final year of B6 production, after which the B7 generation (with the BHF engine variant) took over from the 2006 model year onward.
Audi S4 Generation History: Why This Engine Matters To understand the significance of this 4.2L V8, it helps to know the full Audi S4 generation lineage:
Generation Years Engine Output Notes B5 S4 1997-2002 2.7L biturbo V6 (APB) 250 HP (US) / 265 HP (Euro) Legendary twin-turbo V6, totally different engine B6 S4 (THIS LISTING) 2003-2005 4.2L V8 (BBK) 340 HP / 302 lb-ft Audi first put a V8 in the S4 B7 S4 (THIS LISTING) 2005-2008 4.2L V8 (BHF) 340 HP / 302 lb-ft Refined B6 with mid-cycle update B8 S4 2009-2016 3.0 TFSI supercharged V6 (CAKA / CGXC) 333 HP / 325 lb-ft Switched to supercharged V6 B9 S4 2017-Present 3.0 TFSI turbocharged V6 (CWGD) 354 HP / 369 lb-ft Current S4 with turbo V6
The B6 / B7 S4 (2003 to 2008) is widely regarded as the most charismatic S4 ever produced, the only V8-powered generation, with a high-revving 7,000 RPM redline and one of the best-sounding V8 exhaust notes in any production sport sedan. The combination of the 4.2L V8 with Audi's Quattro all-wheel drive and a 6-speed manual (or Tiptronic automatic) made this generation the enthusiast's choice.
The B6 and B7 S4 share essentially the same 4.2L V8 with minor refinements:
Feature BBK (B6 S4, 2003-2005) BHF (B7 S4, 2005-2008) Generation B6 chassis B7 chassis (facelift / refinement of B6) HP 340 HP at 7,000 RPM 340 HP at 7,000 RPM (same output) Torque 302 lb-ft at 3,500 RPM 302 lb-ft at 3,500 RPM (same output) Valvetrain 5 valves per cylinder (40 valves total) 5 valves per cylinder (40 valves total) ECU Bosch ME 7.1.1 Bosch ME 7.1.1 (revised programming) Emissions Tier 1 / LEV Tier 2 / LEV II (B7 emissions update) Variable Valve Timing Intake and exhaust VVT Intake and exhaust VVT
For most service and engine swap purposes, the BBK and BHF are essentially interchangeable with proper ECU programming. Engine code matching to the host vehicle is preferred for OEM electronic compatibility.
The B6 and B7 S4 were offered in three body styles, all using the same 4.2L V8: � B6 / B7 S4 Sedan (4-door), most common US variant � B6 / B7 S4 Avant (wagon), popular performance wagon � B6 / B7 S4 Cabriolet (convertible), B6 only (no B7 Cabriolet)
The B6 / B7 S4 produces remarkable performance for its era:
� 0 to 60 MPH: 5.2 seconds (B6 manual) / 5.5 seconds (B6 Tiptronic) � Top speed: 155 MPH (electronically limited, removable) � EPA fuel economy: 14 city / 21 highway MPG (B6 manual) � Transmission options: 6-speed manual, 6-speed Tiptronic automatic � Drivetrain: Quattro all-wheel drive (standard) The Audi 4.2L V8 Family Heritage The S4's 4.2L V8 is part of a broader Audi V8 family that includes: � Audi A6 4.2 (C5 / C6 generations), 300-335 HP � Audi A8 4.2 (D2 / D3 generations), 310-335 HP � Audi RS4 B7 (BNS), 4.2 FSI V8 with 420 HP (the FSI direct injection variant) � Audi Q7 4.2 FSI (BAR), 350 HP V8 with FSI direct injection Many parts and architectural elements are shared across the Audi V8 family, though specific tunes, internals, and accessories differ.
Traditional V8 architecture producing the smooth power delivery and characteristic V8 exhaust note. Two cylinder banks set at 90 degrees to each other. DOHC, 5 Valves Per Cylinder (40 Valves Total) One of the few production V8s ever built with 5-valve heads (3 intake, 2 exhaust). The 5-valve arrangement delivers exceptional high-RPM breathing, enabling the 7,000 RPM redline.
Heavy-duty forged crankshaft engineered for sustained high-RPM operation. Significantly more robust than typical cast crankshafts.
Lightweight aluminum construction reduces front weight bias in the S4 chassis.
Continuous variable timing on intake and exhaust camshafts for performance and efficiency optimization.
Traditional MPI fuel system (NOT direct injection like later Audi V8s), simpler to service, more affordable injectors, and known characteristics.
High compression ratio takes advantage of premium fuel for maximum power output.
Tubular stainless steel manifolds optimize exhaust flow and reduce weight.
We believe in honest disclosure of known service items for the 4.2L V8 BBK / BHF: Timing Chain Tensioners (THE famous service item) The B6 / B7 S4 4.2L V8 uses timing chains with tensioners that are mounted at the rear of the engine (between the engine and transmission). At 100,000 to 150,000 plus miles, the tensioners can wear and the chains can stretch. Service requires significant labor, as the engine must come out of the car (typical service cost $4,000 to $7,000 at independent specialists; $8,000 to $12,000 at dealerships). This is the primary high-mileage service concern with this engine. A used BBK / BHF with documented recent timing chain service is significantly more valuable. Engines we sell are inspected for current timing chain condition.
Like many high-compression engines, the 4.2L V8 can develop intake valve carbon buildup at 80,000 to 120,000 miles. Walnut blasting service ($400-700) addresses this.
Individual coil packs can fail (one per cylinder, 8 total). Replacement is straightforward.
The SAI system that helps reduce cold-start emissions can fail, triggering a Check Engine Light. Common service item.
Some BBK / BHF engines develop oil consumption at high mileage (200,000+ miles) due to valve seal or piston ring wear. Monitor oil level between changes. These are typical European V8 service items, not catastrophic flaws. The 4.2L V8 in well-maintained service routinely exceeds 150,000-200,000 miles, with some examples seeing 250,000+ miles with proactive maintenance.
A used 4.2L V8 offers compelling value: � Cost savings vs reman ($3,299 used vs $6,500-$11,000 reman plus core) � Direct OEM fit for B6 S4 (2003-2005) and B7 S4 (2005-2008) sedan / Avant / Cabriolet � Iconic V8 exhaust note, one of the best-sounding sport sedan engines ever produced � Audi V8 family heritage with shared parts across A6 / A8 4.2 applications � Foundation for restoration: the B6 / B7 S4 is becoming a sought-after modern classic Here at Vaz Auto Solutions, you'll find this Audi S4 engine for sale at the most reasonable price possible, with engine code verification (BBK or BHF), timing chain tensioner condition documentation, and clear B6 vs B7 generation identification.
Direct Fit B6 Audi S4 (BBK Engine Code):
2003 Audi S4 Sedan B6 4-door sedan with 4.2L V8 BBK 2003 Audi S4 Avant B6 wagon variant with 4.2L V8 BBK 2004 Audi S4 Sedan B6 4-door with 4.2L V8 BBK 2004 Audi S4 Avant B6 wagon with 4.2L V8 BBK 2004 Audi S4 Cabriolet B6 convertible with 4.2L V8 BBK 2005 Audi S4 Sedan B6 final year with 4.2L V8 BBK 2005 Audi S4 Avant B6 final year with 4.2L V8 BBK 2005 Audi S4 Cabriolet B6 final year with 4.2L V8 BBK Direct Fit B7 Audi S4 (BHF Engine Code):
2006 Audi S4 Sedan B7 4-door with 4.2L V8 BHF 2006 Audi S4 Avant B7 wagon with 4.2L V8 BHF 2006 Audi S4 Cabriolet B7 convertible with 4.2L V8 BHF 2007 Audi S4 Sedan B7 4-door with 4.2L V8 BHF 2007 Audi S4 Avant B7 wagon with 4.2L V8 BHF 2007 Audi S4 Cabriolet B7 convertible with 4.2L V8 BHF 2008 Audi S4 Sedan B7 final year with 4.2L V8 BHF 2008 Audi S4 Avant B7 final year with 4.2L V8 BHF 2008 Audi S4 Cabriolet B7 final year with 4.2L V8 BHF NOT Compatible (Different S4 Engines):
B5 Audi S4 (1997-2002) Uses 2.7L biturbo V6 (APB engine), NOT the 4.2L V8 B8 Audi S4 (2009-2016) Uses 3.0 TFSI supercharged V6 (CAKA / CGXC), NOT the 4.2L V8 B9 Audi S4 (2017+) Uses 3.0 TFSI turbocharged V6 (CWGD), NOT the 4.2L V8
� Donor vehicle body style confirmed (sedan / Avant / Cabriolet) � Donor vehicle confirmed and miles documented where available � All 8 cylinders compression tested � Oil pressure verified at idle and operating speed � Timing chain tensioner condition documented (THE primary service item with this engine) � Variable valve timing system function tested (intake and exhaust) � Fuel injection system verified (multi-port sequential) � Spark plug condition documented (8 plugs) � Coil pack condition assessed (8 coils) � Secondary air injection pump function checked � Carbon buildup on intake valves noted where observable � Oil consumption assessment based on observable indicators
� 30% off specialty freight delivery to all 50 states � 15 day replacement warranty on internal defects � Cross-reference assistance for B6 / B7 S4 sedan / Avant / Cabriolet applications
| Engine Type | V8 petrol, 90-degree V angle |
|---|---|
| Engine Codes | BBK (B6 generation 2003-2005) and BHF (B7 generation 2005-2008) |
| Engine Family | Audi 4.2 V8 (Audi V8 family) |
| Horsepower | 340 HP at 7,000 RPM |
| Displacement | 4.2 liters (4,163 cc / 254 cubic inches) |
| Bore X Stroke | 84.5 mm x 92.8 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 |
| Torque | 302 lb-ft at 3,500 RPM |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Fuel System | Multi-port sequential fuel injection |
| Fuel Type | Premium Gasoline (91 octane minimum, 93 recommended) |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, 5 valves per cylinder (40 valves total), variable valve timing |
| Redline | 7,000 RPM |
| Block Head Material | Aluminum alloy block and cylinder heads |
| Crankshaft | Forged steel |
| Manufacturer | Audi AG (Volkswagen Group) |
| Production Years | 2003 to 2008 (B6 / B7 S4 application) |
| Direct Fit | B6 S4 (2003-2005) sedan / Avant / Cabriolet; B7 S4 (2005-2008) sedan / Avant / Cabriolet |
| Body Styles | Sedan, Avant (wagon), Cabriolet (convertible, B6 only) |
Contact (240) 301-0095 within 15 days.
