Didn't really find much in a search.

I posted recently that I was considering a Passat W8 or an A6 2.7T. I'm a little skittish about the turbo problems I might experience in the 2.7T so the best of both worlds seems like it might be the A6 4.2L V8.

Any reason I shouldn't get the 4.2 over the 2.7T, aside from modability? I can live with 300 HP/300 ft lb of torque.

Thanks.

 

If you like a manual trans then 2.7T is your only A6 option...it's the reason I bought mine

 

Not to be mean or anything, but this must be one of the most commonly asked questions and there must be tons of threads dealing with this. Rather than just say search a little more, I'll point out the main points off the top of my head.

The 2.7T is the same engine in the B5 S4. It makes good power stock, and has great potential (400 hp+) when modded. The 2.7T variant also had a six speed manual option, if you prefer stick. It has some minor weak points such as the diverter valves (can be upgraded for $80) and the throttle body bootcan tear(again ~$80 to replace). The engine itself has been labeled "bullet proof" by many owners here. The turbos can go out, but that is just part of the deal when you get an engine with turbos. They can last long when proper care is taken.

The 4.2 is a solid eight cylinder and is going to be smooth and powerfulwithnone of the weak points listed above.Thisengine is not very moddable, butyou willnever have to replace a turbo here. Again, this engine is just as bullet proof if not more so. No stick option here, but you get the nice wide fenders that many owners love that aren't available with the 2.7T.

 

Thanks for the responses. I really did search and really didn't find a whole lot so I must have used the wrong terms or otherwise did a poor search.

I've always been a bigger displacement guy (currently have a 2.8L Passat and a 6.8L Ford Superduty) so I'll probably go with the 4.2.

 

Good choice. Enjoy your new vehicle and post some pics...

 

You made a good choice with the 4.2, especially if you are not into mods.

 

It HAS got to be the most common thread on Audi Forums. I think Four Ring Circus summarized the main points. The cars in stock form are really close in performance, with the 4.2 having an edge with accelerations at higher speeds. The 4.2 has such a sexy behind and body flares, the wide bidy is really hot and can be further improved with RS6 parts. The 2.7T can be made to look sweet and has a sportier feel I think, the 4.2 felt heavier to me in its driving. The steering felt heavier.
Also you might fell into the mod addiction even though you don't think so now, and if you ever want to mod your car for HP performance, then the 2.7T is what you need. YOu might get ffrustrated when an apparently stock Gd Ma looking A6 2.7 runs circles around you b/c it's got a simple $500 chip My neighbor didn't like my 2.7 beating his 4.2
That being said, if you don't careto havemore performance, then you can get the 4.2 and still mod it for better looks (RS6 grill, side skirts, spoiler...), handling(Sway bars, C/O...), braking (SS brake lines, pads, rotors, fluid, BBK...).. and you still have oe of the best A## in the industry.... I am always jealous when I drive behind a wide body A6... Food for thoughts... Good luck. I think you can't really go wrong with either...

 

4.2

 

4.2

 

I go standard[8D]