If you're looking for sporty styling, interior refinement and solid performance, Audi's much-loved S4 has it all. Even in stock form, with its 250-bhp bi-turbo 2.7-liter six, the car is impressively packaged.
Those are impressive credentials, but the car remains a popular choice for tuners who search to squeeze out every ounce of untapped performance potential. Autobahn Designs, better known for its expertise as a VW tuner, has recently expanded its market reach upward to include products for such marques as Audi and Mercedes-Benz.
The company's first endeavor outside of the VW circle is this '02 Audi S4, owned by Derric Swinfard of Monster Media. "It was important for us to make a natural progression into other lines by beginning with Volkswagen's sister company," said ABD's president, Dave Anderson. "Audi is an ideal match and the perfect segue for even better things to come."
While the S4 leaves little room for improvement, the crew at Autobahn Designs massaged every viable area. Our subsequent test drive of the car confirmed a job well done, producing not only exceedingly potent performance with mind-numbing acceleration and convincing roadside manners but an awesome visual treat as well.
Additional power was gained by a number of engine modifications. Topping the list is APR's 2.7T Chip and ECU upgrade, which, available in 1.0 bar configuration, is designed to deliver a notable increase in low-end torque, improved throttle response and ultimately a smoother, more powerful top end. Other mods used to refine engine performance include an APR cast aluminum BiPipe Kit, an APR 3-in. stainless-steel cat-back exhaust system and a replacement K&N Air Filter element.
Autobahn Designs also swapped out the stock intercoolers with larger factory RS4 units, which offer better cooling characteristics for overall improved power delivery. The RS4 units also come equipped with trick aluminum end tanks instead of the plastic standard ends. All in all, a better package.
As a result, estimated performance is said to be rated at roughly 360 bhp, or the equivalent of an additional 110 bhp over stock. The pitch of the exhaust note is subtle while retaining a deep, authoritative purr.
The car rests comfortably on Toyo FZ4 235/35-19 tires and a set of O.Z. Superleggera 8x19-in. wheels. Suspension upgrades consist of Eibach Pro Kit Sport Springs and Bilstein Sport dampers.
Visually, the S4 is quite pleasing out of the box. However, Autobahn Designs felt compelled to add a touch of personalization, equipping the car with a full Reiger RS-style body kit. The package, which also includes a Kamei Sport grille, required a little finesse when fitting, but the result wonderfully complements the stock body contours.
Autobahn Designs' latest work unites the best of performance German engineering with unabashed sportiness, style and sophistication--a well-rounded performance sedan by any standard.