Choosing the right battery for your Audi A6 C4 produced between 1994 and 1997 is essential for the reliability and smooth operation of your vehicle. This generation of the A6, known for its robust engineering and classic lines, covers a range of petrol and diesel engines, including both front-wheel-drive and quattro variants. From the table above, it is clear that the majority of these models were not equipped with modern Start-Stop systems, which means traditional lead-acid batteries are generally the suitable choice. However, there are important distinctions regarding capacity, cold cranking amperage (CCA), and even battery dimensions that you must be aware of before making your purchase.
For petrol engines such as the 1.8, 2.0, and their quattro counterparts, as well as the 2.0 16V variants, the recommended battery capacity typically falls between 55 and 65 Ah, with a CCA range of 460 to 640 A. These requirements ensure sufficient starting power, especially during colder months when battery performance can drop significantly. For these versions, you may consider, as examples, models like Bosch S30 05, Bosch S40 05, or Varta D24, all of which are compatible with the required specifications. Similarly, brands like Exide, Halfords, and Lucas offer suitable options. Remember, these are just a few of the many compatible models, and availability may vary depending on your location.
As the engine displacement increases, so does the demand for higher capacity and stronger starting current. For example, the 2.3, 2.4, 2.6, 2.8, and the performance-oriented S6 variants (including the S6 Turbo quattro, S6 4.2 quattro, and S6 Plus quattro) require batteries rated between 70 and 78 Ah, with a CCA from 640 up to 780 A. This is also true for many quattro models, which generally need more power due to their all-wheel-drive system and additional electrical consumers. For these engines, batteries like Bosch S30 08, Exide EA770, or Varta E44 are representative examples that match the necessary parameters. Selecting a battery with a slightly higher CCA than recommended can provide a buffer during harsh winters or if you frequently use accessories like heated seats and powerful audio systems.
Diesel engines, such as the 1.9 TDI and 2.5 TDI (including quattro versions), present their own requirements. Diesel engines generally require more cranking power due to higher compression ratios. Here, the battery should offer between 70 and 74 Ah of capacity, with a CCA ranging from 640 to 750 A. What is particularly important for these diesel variants, as well as for the 2.6 petrol model in some versions, is the battery’s physical height. The table specifically notes that a reduced battery height of 175mm is needed for proper fitment. If the battery is too tall, it might not fit under the bonnet or could cause problems with the mounting bracket. Pay special attention to this detail during your selection. In these cases, batteries like Bosch S30 07, Exide EA722, or Varta E38 are given as suitable examples.
Across all these models, the standard battery technology remains lead-acid, which is tried and tested for conventional vehicles not equipped with Start-Stop. This technology is renowned for its affordability, wide availability, and ease of recycling. It’s also worth mentioning that maintenance-free versions are the most convenient for modern drivers, as they don't require regular topping up of electrolyte.
An interesting fact about the Audi A6 C4 is that, despite being nearly three decades old, these vehicles are still popular among enthusiasts thanks to their solid build quality and classic engineering. Choosing the right battery not only ensures reliable starting but also preserves the electrical reliability that these cars were known for. When installing a new battery, always double-check the terminal layout (left or right-hand positive), as this can differ depending on the original battery fitted at the factory.
In summary, when selecting a battery for your Audi A6 C4 from 1994-1997, you should consider the engine type, required capacity, CCA, and physical dimensions. While the examples provided, such as those from Bosch, Exide, Varta, and others, are suitable for most scenarios, always verify the specific requirements of your car before purchase. A well-chosen battery will keep your classic Audi running reliably for years to come.
Audi A6 in version C4 was produced in the years 1994 – 1997. The following table presents information about batteries that match each of the engines available on the market.
Basic parameters of batteries suitable for Audi A6 (1994-1997):
| Layout | Terminal types | Base hold-down |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B13 |
Audi A6 C4 – petrol engines:
- 1.8
- 1.8 quattro
- 2.0
- 2.0 16V
- 2.0 16V quattro
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S3 S30 05 | 56 Ah 480 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S4 S40 05 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 05 | 63 Ah 610 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Classic EC550 | 55 Ah 460 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB620 | 62 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA640 | 64 Ah 640 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Essentials HB 027 | 56 Ah 480 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 027 | 62 Ah 550 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP027 | 60 Ah 540 A | 243x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS027 | 65 Ah 640 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Black Dynamic C14 | 56 Ah 480 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic D24 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic D15 | 63 Ah 610 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
Audi A6 C4 – petrol engines:
- 2.6
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S3 S30 07 | 70 Ah 640 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Bosch S4 S40 07 | 72 Ah 680 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 07 | 74 Ah 750 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Exide Classic EC652 | 65 Ah 540 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB712 | 71 Ah 670 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA722 | 72 Ah 720 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP100 | 72 Ah 680 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS100 | 74 Ah 750 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Black Dynamic E9 | 70 Ah 640 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic E43 | 72 Ah 680 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic E38 | 74 Ah 750 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
Audi A6 C4 – petrol engines:
- 2.3
- 2.3 quattro
- 2.4
- 2.6
- 2.6 quattro
- 2.8
- 2.8 quattro
- S6 4.2 quattro
- S6 Plus quattro
- S6 Turbo quattro
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S3 S30 08 | 70 Ah 640 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S4 S40 08 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 08 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Classic EC700 | 70 Ah 640 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB740 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA770 | 77 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Essentials HB 096 | 70 Ah 640 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 096 | 76 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP096 | 75 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS096 | 78 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Black Dynamic E13 | 70 Ah 640 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic E11 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic E44 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
Audi A6 C4 – diesel engines:
- 1.9 TDI
- 2.5 TDI
- 2.5 TDI quattro
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S3 S30 07 | 70 Ah 640 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Bosch S4 S40 07 | 72 Ah 680 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 07 | 74 Ah 750 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB712 | 71 Ah 670 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA722 | 72 Ah 720 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP100 | 72 Ah 680 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS100 | 74 Ah 750 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Black Dynamic E9 | 70 Ah 640 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic E43 | 72 Ah 680 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic E38 | 74 Ah 750 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your Audi A6 , or if you want to help others in their selection, please send us a photo of your current battery in the comment section at the bottom of the page. You can also send the picture to contact@whatbattery.co.uk (we will place it in the comments to also help other users). Be sure to specify the car model, year, type, as well as the engine capacity and power. We’ll do our best to assist you!