2003 AUDI RS6

Background:

Introduced in 2002, the C5-generation Audi RS6 represented a significant development in Audi's growing RS range, combining the practicality and understated appearance of the A6 Avant with performance that placed it amongst the fastest estate cars of its era.

Developed by Audi Sport's predecessor, Quattro GmbH, the RS6 was powered by a Cosworth-developed 4.2-litre, 40-valve, twin-turbocharged V8 producing 450PS and 560Nm of torque. Drive was transmitted through a five-speed Tiptronic automatic gearbox and Audi's quattro permanent four-wheel-drive system. Performance was suitably impressive, with Audi quoting 0-62mph in under five seconds, whilst the chassis featured substantially uprated braking and suspension systems, including Dynamic Ride Control (DRC).

With its combination of twin-turbocharged V8 performance, quattro four-wheel drive and genuine estate-car practicality, the C5 RS6 established a formula that has continued through successive generations of Audi's flagship RS Avant.

The Car:

Dating from 2003, this C5 RS6 Avant is finished in Daytona Grey with black exterior trim and darker-finished alloy wheels. The interior is trimmed in cream leather with Recaro front seats, complemented by cream and grey Alcantara and an Alcantara headlining. Our vendor has owned the vehicle since 2011 and has enjoyed it extensively during his 15-year ownership, including numerous European trips.

Importantly, for a car of this performance and complexity, it is accompanied by an extensive service history documenting regular maintenance by Audi and specialist garages from its delivery inspection in 2003 through to its most recent service in April 2026. The history records timing belt changes in 2007, 2009, 2018 and, most recently, April 2024 at 126,039 miles. Two gearbox replacements are also recorded, the first in April 2007 at 42,308 miles and the second in June 2010 at 85,566 miles. The indicated mileage was 126,567 at the time of cataloguing.

The original DRC suspension system was replaced in 2008 with H&R coil-overs and Hotchkis anti-roll bars. The H&R units were subsequently replaced by BC Racing BR coil-overs in 2023. Further upgrades include uprated intercoolers, carbon intake components and a Milltek resonated stainless-steel cat-back exhaust system. More recent maintenance has included a replacement alternator and air-conditioning condenser in 2019, new brake discs all round with EBC Yellowstuff pads in 2022 and a replacement starter motor in 2024. All four tyres are described by our vendor as virtually new.

The recorded service and maintenance history includes:

The vehicle is accompanied by an MOT valid until 30th April 2027.

Condition:

Finished in Daytona Grey with its cream leather and Alcantara interior, this RS6 presents as a clearly used but well-maintained example that has been enjoyed by its current owner for the last 15 years.

There are a number of known areas requiring attention. The keys are not currently synchronised with the car and consequently do not operate the remote locking, whilst the infotainment system does not currently switch on. Our vendor also advises that the alarm has occasionally activated without apparent cause. A second-hand convenience ECU accompanies the car but has not been fitted or tested, and no definitive diagnosis of these electrical issues has been established.

Our vendor further advises that switching between the automatic and manual transmission modes does not always respond smoothly and will require investigation. The alloy wheels would also benefit from refurbishment.

Prospective bidders are encouraged to study the accompanying photographs and satisfy themselves as to the nature of the vehicle prior to bidding.

With approximately 127,000 miles indicated at the time of cataloguing, 15 years current ownership and an extensive maintenance record that includes four recorded timing belt changes and two replacement gearboxes, this Daytona Grey C5 RS6 Avant offers an opportunity to acquire an increasingly recognised modern performance estate, with its known areas requiring attention clearly disclosed.

Location: Monmouthshire

Seller: Private

Photographs: Professional