The Audi RS4 B7 pairs a naturally aspirated 4.2 FSI V8 with a six-speed manual and quattro. The best buy is the example with itemised evidence for engine work, cooling and suspension, and enough left in your budget for brakes and tyres. A cold start, proper road test and lift inspection can reveal more than a fresh valet or a claimed power figure.
Saloon, Avant or Cabriolet?
The saloon and Avant share the appeal of the manual V8. Choose the Avant if you need its load space, and compare condition and history before paying a body-style premium. The Cabriolet adds a powered roof, more seals and drainage checks. Audi’s factory Cabriolet archive identifies its 420 PS V8. Confirm the engine and equipment from the VIN and data sticker, especially if parts have been changed.
PistonHeads recorded £15,812 for a 98,412-mile 2007 B7 Avant in August 2026. That is one recorded sale. The broader Audi listing page includes other generations, so filter manually for B7, body style, mileage, brake spec and history. A car with recent documented DRC or brake work and a sound engine can justify a different price from one carrying the same badge and several deferred jobs.
Carbon build-up, intake and timing chain
Request a cold start, then assess hot idle and response on a proper drive. Direct injection can allow deposits to build on intake valves. Rough idle, misfires and reduced response have other causes too. A specialist should read fault codes and misfire counts, assess ignition and fuelling and inspect the intake where appropriate. Ask what a previous cleaning involved, when it was carried out and whether intake flap or vacuum faults were addressed. Treat an old dyno sheet as historical evidence.
The BNS V8 uses timing chains. Persistent or recurring abnormal noise needs diagnosis and an estimate from a specialist familiar with the installation. Ask for the scope of any reported chain repair, including the parts changed and why. On a lift, inspect oil cooler pipes and unions for corrosion and leakage, and check coolant level, radiators and the condition of the undertrays. Verify oil consumption from the owner’s records and investigate wet areas rather than accepting a generic explanation.
DRC, clutch, quattro and brakes
Identify whether the factory Dynamic Ride Control system remains in place. Look for leaks, knocking or inconsistent damping, and ask a specialist to check the interconnected system and price the work. If coilovers are fitted, ask for brand, invoice, alignment and insurance disclosure. A conversion can suit a particular owner when installed and set up properly.
Check every gear once the gearbox is warm. Look for clutch slip under moderate load and listen for noises that change with clutch pedal position. On a lift, check driveline leaks, CV boots and mountings. Look at the inner faces of the brake discs and price worn components by exact specification. If ceramics are fitted, get an assessment by a workshop familiar with them. Check all tyres for correct size, comparable circumference and inner-edge wear. A pull or off-centre steering wheel deserves an alignment and suspension assessment.
Body, cabin and roof
Inspect arch edges, sills, jacking points, bumpers and underside. Look for changes in paint texture, damaged undertrays and signs of previous repair. Test the seats, climate control, windows and instruments. On the Avant, look for damp in the boot and test the tailgate hardware. On a Cabriolet, cycle the roof fully, examine seals and fabric and check the cabin and boot for water.
Maintenance and parts
Match parts to the BNS engine, body and actual brake and suspension equipment. Check the correct oil approval and service requirements. The parts-only allowances below are planning estimates.
These are UK parts budgeting allowances. Confirm the VIN, exact fitment, condition, delivery, VAT and any exchange deposit before ordering. Labour and diagnosis are separate.
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| Part | Parts allowance | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Oil service kit | £80–£150 | Check oil approval and fill quantity. |
| Spark plugs | £65–£150 | Confirm BNS fitment. |
| Ignition coils | £30–£75 each | Diagnose individual misfires first. |
| Alternator | £160–£480 | Match OE number and exchange terms. |
| Accessory drive kit | £70–£180 | Confirm pulley and tensioner configuration. |
| Oil cooler pipes | £120–£350 | Inspect the cooler unions and quote complete scope. |
| Coolant radiator | £110–£290 | Check side, fittings and auxiliary equipment. |
| Front steel brakes | £350–£900 | Verify rotor dimensions and calipers. |
| Manual clutch | £270–£700 | Allow separately for flywheel and labour. |
| DRC damper | £300–£850 each | Confirm corner and get a system diagnosis first. |
| Control arms | £150–£420 | Price seized hardware and alignment separately. |
Hidden ownership costs
Get written fitted quotes for any clutch, oil cooler or DRC issue. A price for a damper alone may omit labour and system charging. Ask whether oil cooler corrosion could require further components once the fittings are disturbed. Price premium tyres and brakes before committing, and check the tax for the actual registration and emissions classification. If buying a Cabriolet, reserve money for roof and drainage repairs. If timing-chain symptoms are present, establish the diagnosis and full scope before agreeing a price.
Viewing checklist
- Confirm VIN, engine, suspension, brakes and MOT history.
- Observe cold start and hot idle, then test gearbox, clutch and brakes.
- Get an Audi-capable scan and investigate intake or misfire symptoms.
- Inspect DRC, oil cooler pipes, discs and inner tyre edges on a lift.
- Check all body-specific electrics and roof or tailgate operation, then price repairs in writing.
Audi RS4 B7 FAQ
Does the B7 RS4 have a timing belt?
The 4.2 FSI BNS engine uses timing chains. It has a separate accessory belt.
Is carbon cleaning a cure for every misfire?
A specialist should diagnose the cause. Ignition, fuelling, intake faults and mechanical condition can all matter.
Should I avoid a car with a DRC conversion?
Check installation, geometry, component quality, ride and insurer acceptance.
Which RS4 B7 body is best?
Choose based on how you will use the car and buy on condition. The Cabriolet adds roof-related checks.
