Depreciation has reduced the price of a used Audi S4 equipped with a 4.2-liter V8 engine down to 35,000 kronor on the Swedish secondhand market, according to classified listings on Blocket. Originally retailing for approximately 550,000 kronor when new in the mid-2000s, the high-performance family car now offers buyers an affordable entry point into large-displacement naturally aspirated engines, though mechanical maintenance costs remain a significant factor for owners.
The Rise and Fall of Mid-2000s Performance Models
Audi produced the S4 generation B6 from 2004 to 2005, followed by the B7 generation, equipping both with a 4.2-liter V8 engine that delivered 344 horsepower. According to market data, these vehicles came standard with quattro all-wheel drive and were available in manual or automatic transmissions, configured as both sedans and Avants. When purchased new, base prices hovered around 550,000 kronor in Sweden, though buyers frequently added expensive factory options that pushed the final tally higher.
Today, the landscape of the secondary market looks vastly different. Several S4 Avant models from the 2004 and 2005 model years are listed for under 100,000 kronor. At the very bottom of the pricing spectrum, Blocket listings feature a 2005 Audi S4 with 21 000 mil on the odometer priced at just 35,000 kronor, with sellers noting no current engine faults.
Did you know? The 4.2-liter V8 engine found in these mid-2000s Audi S4 models uses timing chains positioned at the very rear of the motor, meaning any major service involving the chains, tensioners, and guide rails requires extensive mechanical labor.
Maintenance Realities of Budget V8 Ownership
Purchasing a former half-million-kronor luxury performance car for the price of a cheap commuter vehicle does not eliminate upkeep costs. These vehicles now carry roughly two decades of wear and tear, with numerous examples surpassing 20 000 mil. Complex engineering—such as the rear-mounted timing chain assembly—keeps repair bills high, which explains why market values have dropped so steeply.
Despite the risks, automotive media platforms like Top Gear have highlighted older performance cars as compelling options for enthusiasts seeking maximum mechanical theater per spent krona. For 35,000 kronor, buyers secure a large displacement naturally aspirated V8 paired with all-wheel drive—a powertrain combination that manufacturers no longer build into standard compact executive cars.
Luxury Alternatives: Bentley Continental GT and BMW 550i
Buyers seeking even higher tiers of initial luxury can find similar depreciation trends applied to grand tourers. According to Blocket listings, a 2006 Bentley Continental GT equipped with a 6.0-liter W12 engine producing roughly 560 horsepower is currently available for 299,900 kronor, while a 2005 model commands 379,000 kronor. When new, these grand tourers cost around two million kronor, featuring cabins packed with extensive leather, wood trim, and bespoke detailing.
For those targeting a middle ground between Audi and Bentley, the BMW 550i from the same era presents another V8 option. Featuring a 4.8-liter V8 generating 367 horsepower, a 2006 rear-wheel-drive model with 20 200 mil on the clock is listed at 159,000 kronor. These BMW models retain slightly higher residual values than the period Audi S4 variants because large naturally aspirated V8 engines combined with rear-wheel drive have developed a dedicated following among collectors.
| Model | Engine | Original Price (Approx.) | Current Market Price (Blocket) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audi S4 (B6/B7) | 4.2L V8 (344 hp) | 550,000 SEK | From 35,000 SEK |
| BMW 550i | 4.8L V8 (367 hp) | strax över en halv miljon kronor SEK | Approx. 159,000 SEK |
| Bentley Continental GT | 6.0L W12 (560 hp) | 2,000,000 SEK | From 299,900 SEK |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a used Audi S4 V8 cost in Sweden today?
What are the common mechanical concerns with the Audi S4 B6 and B7?
The primary mechanical concern involves the rear-mounted timing chain system. Replacing the chains, tensioners, and guide rails requires significant labor hours, which can quickly exceed the purchase price of a low-cost vehicle.
Why have older performance cars like the Bentley Continental GT dropped so much in price?
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