Audi S4 Cabriolet 2005 Review

With 0-100km/h sprinting of just 5.9 seconds, it's a thrill ride combined with all the safety, technological and luxury features expected of a top-shelf German vehicle.

Launched in April, 2005, the S4 cabriolet marries the awesome performance of the S4 sedan with the drop-top appeal of the A4 convertible. For $143,800, you get the super-responsive 4.2lt V8 pumping out 253kW at 7000rpm and 410Nm at 3500rpm. It's a wonderful free-revving unit that punches hard from standstill, spins effortlessly to 7000revs and delivers a seductive, although muted, note that's music to a car enthusiast's ears.

Stomp on the throttle too hard, though, and you'll have the tyres scrabbling for grip, despite the safety net of all-wheel drive and traction control. Fuel economy was another highlight, returning 12litres/100km despite some spirited driving.

Not quite as impressive was the six-speed tiptronic auto that, although effective around town, is not as seamless as Audi's delightful DSG 'box especially during push-on driving. The paddle shifters on the steering wheel were also awkwardly placed and discouraged use, so much so that we ended up leaving it in 'sports' auto mode most of the time.

The S4 benefits from sports suspension and extra chassis stiffening, feeling tighter than most convertibles. It punches confidently through corners with minimal body roll and only a hint of understeer when really pushed. The servotronic steering is accurate but too light for a sports-oriented car.

Visually, the looks are a little underwhelming. Subtle additions like 'S4' badges, twin exhausts, bigger front air dam and aluminium backed side mirrors are the only hints to its performance potential. Those in the front pews have little to complain about though, with comfy, supportive leather seats and a well-built cabin. The electro-hydraulic drop top takes a lengthy 30 seconds to open, but with the heated seats on, the heater blasting and the windows up, cruising top-down in winter is a viable option.

Although more practical than a two-seater roadster, legroom is tight in the rear seats and the boot space is limited to a few small bags.

Would we buy one? Yes, for the exhilarating performance, stylish looks, rock-solid build and drop-top fun. But at almost twice the price of the 1.8-litre turbo version, deep pockets and a lust for high performance are definitely required.