The drivetrain concept of the new S6 systematically and permanently ensures that the enormous forces generated by the V10 engine can genuinely provide efficient, minimal-loss propulsion, something that vehicles with one driven axle only rarely achieve. It is consequently able to develop and use high levels of power all the time.



Chassis
Firmer and more spontaneous

The dynamic suspension layout of the new Audi S6 is based on a technology that has already demonstrated its sports calibre in the most challenging of conditions: the refined four-link front suspension acknowledged as a typical Audi feature and the self-tracking trapezoidal-link rear suspension carried over from the A6. This combination gives the S6 one of the most complex and efficient rear suspension layouts currently available. In terms of its kinematic behaviour, this technical treat provides a foretaste of the out-and-out sporty, active characteristics of the Audi S6. The precise reduction of bump toe-in as a function of spring travel improves the car's directional stability, steering precision, and handling. The entire layout is designed in such a way as to produce a neutral response with a moderate tendency to understeer when the very high limits of handling are approached.

The chassis is constructed using a multi-material concept. The principal components of the chassis feature lightweight aluminium construction, resulting in decisively lower unsprung masses. The targeted use of sheet steel, on the other hand, achieves optimum rigidity wherever it is required. In selecting specific materials and manufacturing methods for each individual suspension link, Audi's engineers have been able to ensure that the chassis represents an optimum blend of low weight, high rigidity and maximum safety.

As a reflection of its explicitly sporty character, the suspension settings of the S6 have been made firmer, even compared with the A6 sports suspension, and at the same time assure a high standard of comfort for long-distance driving. As the elastokinematics have likewise undergone comprehensive modifications, the
Audi S6 is always noticeably more agile; driving stability and traction have moreover been further optimised specifically for the high performance standards of the Audi S6.

The Audi S6 is equipped ex works with 19-inch cast aluminium wheels of a 5-arm wing design. The wide tyres have the format 265/35 R19, a further feature differentiating them from the Audi A6.

An 18-inch brake system assures supreme braking performance and decelerates the car keenly even under high loads (this means that the size of the wheels fitted must be at least 18 inches). Its four large discs are ventilated, the discs on the front wheels measuring 385 millimetres in diameter and those at the rear measuring
330 mm. The front brake discs are 36 mm thick, the rear brake discs 22 mm. The brake calipers are painted black; the front calipers are adorned with a titanium grey supporting plate with an S-specific S6 emblem.



Design
Supremely athletic presence

The models in Audi's S range have traditionally epitomised a consistent and refined form of sports appeal. This applies in equal measure to the new S6, which now dynamically hones the visual impact made by the A6. These models are renowned for their inherently light and elegant character - their very distinctive aesthetic appeal reflects their exceptional status as sports models in the luxury class.

The S6 looks unmistakably even more supremely athletic out on the roads - but without even the slightest hint of aggression. The most striking differences compared with the A6 are to be found at the front end. The eye-catching single-frame grille displays the S6 emblem, and its vertical aluminium-look struts are of a double design by way of further differentiation. There is an air inlet beneath the grille. A spoiler lip at the front end of the car provides additional negative lift.

previous page | go to page 6