Cars and Bids Bargain of the Week: 2009 Audi S5
If you’re after a bargain version of one of Audi’s luxury cars, the used market is an excellent place to look. Especially if you’re after one of the German brand’s more performance-oriented S and RS models. And this week on Cars and Bids, one such car has popped up: a 2009 Audi S5.
The B8 Audi S5 is an AWD V8 German luxury muscle car
Much like the modern A4 and A5, the Audi S5 is a more style-focused version of the S4. It’s been that way since 2008 when Audi introduced the first-gen ‘B8’ S5, Car and Driver reports. And while in 2010 the German automaker introduced a cabriolet and ‘Sportback’ (hatchback), for the first two years the S5 was coupe-only.
The 2008-2012 B8 Audi S5 Coupe also had a different powertrain. While the Cabriolet and Sportback have supercharged V6s, the Coupe has a naturally-aspirated V8, Car and Driver reports. It’s a 4.2-liter V8 with 354 hp and 325 lb-ft linked to a standard AWD system, Automobile reports. And while a six-speed automatic was eventually available, initially Audi only sold the B8 S5 with a six-speed manual, MotorTrend reports. With it, the S6 goes 0-62 mph in a claimed 5.1 seconds, Roadshow reports. Car and Driver managed a 0-60 mph time of 4.8 seconds.
Compared to the contemporary BMW 3 Series, the B8 S5 isn’t quite as sharp or sporty, Edmunds reports. But as a premium grand-touring car, it absolutely delivers, Evo reports. The seats are comfortable, and the interior material quality is great, Autoweek reports. And despite having a lower ride height and sportier suspension than the A5, the ride isn’t teeth-rattlingly stiff, Driving.ca reports. Plus, the brakes were almost too effective, PistonHeads reports.
However, the V8 and that manual transmission are the S5’s biggest selling points. The engine is punchy with a “stupendous exhaust note,” Autoweek reports. And it doesn’t really matter which gear you’re in, the V8 pulls so well, Car and Driver reports.
The 2009 Audi S5 on Cars and Bids
The 2009 Audi S5 currently listed on Cars and Bids is a fully-stock example. And with only 50,500 miles on the clock and a few scuffs and chips, it’s in great shape. Plus, it’s been extremely well-optioned.
Standard features on the 2009 Audi S5 included heated front seats, a sports exhaust, larger brakes, navigation, and keyless entry, Car and Driver reports. And this particular car also has carbon-fiber interior trim, a universal garage door opener, auto-dimming mirrors, and the upgraded Bang & Olufsen audio system. Plus, instead of the standard leather upholstery, it has the Nappa leather upgrade. Though it’s worth pointing out that, even from the factory, the sunroof doesn’t slide, and only tilts open.
Cars and Bids reports that this 2009 Audi S5 is a two-owner car that’s always been registered in California. But while the AutoCheck history report indicates no accidents, the seller notes the CarFax report mentions “minor damage.” However, the coupe also recently underwent a 60-point inspection, and no issues were noted.
It’s a genuine luxury bargain
As of this writing, this 2009 Audi S5 is listed on Cars and Bids at $17,100 with three days left in the auction. Given its mileage, that’s a bit below-average; examples with similar mileages can easily cost $7000-$8000 more on Autotrader. Plus, given the B8 S5 started at $51.4k back in 2009, it’s a substantial savings.
It’s worth pointing out that the Audi S5 has the same 4.2-liter V8 as the contemporary S4. And in that car, it’s known to have potentially catastrophic issues with its timing chain tensioners. However, r/Audi sub-Reddit users claim the S5 uses different tensioners. And that genuinely appears to be true, FCP Euro reports.
Apart from that, the S5’s V8 is fairly reliable. The only issues are carbon buildup—a known issue with all direct-injection engines—and a tendency for engine mounts to fail. Luckily, there are stronger and more durable replacements available, ECS Tuning reports.
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