Audi S6

The Audi S6 had a brief and odd life here in the U.S. Its first entry was simply a name change from what had previously been the S4, when the Audi 100 platform on which it was based changed its badging to the A6. This first S6 was fast, with a 2.2-liter turbo and 6-speed manual transmission, quattro all-wheel drive, and sports tuning, but it was also a heavy mid-sized sedan. While it exhibited expert handling and cornering and was speedy on the highway, its weight hampered optimal performance.

After six years off the market, the S6 returned in 2002 with a much bigger and stronger 4.2-liter, 340-hp V8 engine, a performance-tuned version of the one that sat in the Audi A8. This S6 was a little rocket, with lighter aluminum framework and a stiffer suspension that let you tear down roads with sturdy control. But it was also an Avant wagon. Although it sounds incongruous for a sports performer, the S6 came only as a wagon, meaning it offered the space, cargo capacity, and practicality of a family car, the confident road grip of quattro that you look for in an SUV, and the sports-car-like handling of a flashier racer.  

Few of that S6 were sent to the U.S., and it was only in production for 2002 and 2003, so the Audi S6 is somewhat unique and rare on the road, adding to its stylish cache. (Its place was filled by the  smaller and more popular S4.) It features all of the interior amenities Audi prides itself on offering, as well as sporty touches in its distinct grille, dual pipes, and chrome mirror moldings. Its biggest criticisms focused on poor gas mileage and the lack of a manual transmission, but most owners loved its drivetrain performance, maneuverability, and versatility in both city and highway situations.

After its demise in 2003, the S6 will be back with a vengeance for 2007 as both a sedan and wagon with a 5.2-liter V10 engine that hits 435 hp.