AUDI S4
The 2000s was a good time if you like the idea of big V8 engines in relatively small saloons. The E90 BMW M3, Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG, and the Audi S4 and RS4 all packed V8 power yet took up no more space on your driveway than the humble four-cylinder diesel models in each range. Today’s downsized sixes (and even fours), for all their power, aren’t quite the same.
Like each of its rivals, the Audi S4 had traded up from a six-cylinder engine for its third generation. Like almost all performance Audis, quattro-branded all-wheel-drive was the order of the day, and the S4 was offered with six-speed manual and automatic transmissions, and also came in saloon, Avant estate, and Cabriolet forms.
The 4.2-litre, 40-valve naturally-aspirated V8 made 344PS on its 2003 launch, and maintained that power in 2005’s fourth-generation S4, effectively a comprehensive facelift of the earlier car. They have a thirst for super unleaded, at 21mpg combined, but in manual form you’re looking at a 5.4-second 0-60mph time and both third and fourth generations meet Euro 4 emissions standards for that all-important ULEZ exemption.
The S4 doesn’t quite handle with the same verve as the more potent RS4 (whose V8 has more in common with that of the R8 supercar), but as is the Audi way it’s quick and secure whatever the weather, and the understated cabin design has aged beautifully.
Before buying an S4 though, you’ll want – nay, need – to make sure its plastic timing chain guides have been done, or be very confident in replacing them yourself, before the chains jump and that V8 woofle turns into a bang. Rocker cover gaskets can leak but are easier and cheaper to sort – the corrosion that is creeping into some cars less so.
BENTLEY CONTINENTAL
It seems like you’re somehow cheating the system being able to roll around inside the emission zones in a car with twelve cylinders and six litres of displacement, but the Bentley Continental GT – all 5998cc and two turbochargers of it – does indeed meet the Euro 4 petrol requirements that see it slip inside the zone without a penny paid.
And while the Conti might cause you to draw breath through width restrictors or down side streets, piloting a big Brit GT in the cities also feels very, very right. It’s even better outside London though, where the 2003-on GT has mostly shaken off its Premiership footballer image. Whether the kebab shop owner image that’s replaced it is any better is up to you, but steer away from the ropiest examples and opt for a classy colour, and few will know just how little you’ve paid.
Early car
