1998 Audi S4 Avant (8D,B5) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Audi S4 Avant (8D, B5) has a curb weight of approximately 1540 kg (3397 lbs), which refers to the vehicle's weight without passengers or cargo but with all fluids, fuel, and standard equipment. The maximum allowable weight, also referred to as GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating), is 2090 kg (4608 lbs). This accounts for the vehicle when fully loaded with passengers, cargo, and additional equipment. The relatively moderate curb weight helps maintain the vehicle's dynamic driving characteristics and fuel efficiency.

The Audi S4 Avant (8D, B5) provides a practical luggage capacity of 390 liters (about 13.8 cubic feet) when the rear seats are upright. When you fold down the rear seats, the luggage space expands significantly to 1250 liters (approximately 44.1 cubic feet). This flexibility makes the car highly versatile for transporting larger items or increased cargo, which is a key advantage for an active lifestyle or family use.

With a length of 4488 mm (176.7 inches), width of 1733 mm (68.3 inches), and height of 1396 mm (54.9 inches), the Audi S4 Avant (8D, B5) fits comfortably into a standard single-car garage. Standard garages usually have a width of around 2400 mm (94.5 inches) and a depth of at least 4800 mm (189 inches), so the vehicle’s dimensions leave ample space on both sides and at the front and rear for easy parking and access without feeling cramped.

The predecessor to the Audi S4 Avant (8D, B5) was the Audi S4 Avant C4, which was larger in overall dimensions. The 8D B5 generation is slightly more compact with a length of 4488 mm versus the C4’s generally longer body. The B5 generation introduced a more modern and streamlined design, which reduced width and height marginally, improving aerodynamics and handling while maintaining or even improving interior space utilization thanks to better layout and styling efficiency.

Compared with competitors like the BMW 540i Touring (E39) or the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate (W210) from the late 1990s, the Audi S4 Avant (8D, B5) is slightly more compact in length and height. While competitors often surpassed 4700 mm in length and were wider, the S4 Avant maintained a more agile footprint of 4488 mm long and 1733 mm wide. This makes it a more maneuverable option in tighter urban environments but sometimes at the trade-off of slightly less interior cargo capacity.

The Audi S4 Avant (8D, B5) rides on 7.5J x 17 rims fitted with 225/45 R17 tires. These 17-inch wheels and moderately wide tires strike a balance between sporty handling and ride comfort by providing good road grip and stability, especially given the vehicle’s all-wheel-drive layout. The tire size ensures responsive steering feedback and optimal traction, which is a hallmark of the S4's dynamic performance.

The roof load capacity of the Audi S4 Avant (8D, B5) is rated at 75 kg (165 lbs). This means you can safely mount roof racks, boxes, or other equipment up to this weight without affecting the vehicle’s stability or safety. This makes it convenient for owners who need extra carrying capacity for activities such as biking, skiing, or extended travel, further enhancing the Avant’s practicality.

The Audi S4 Avant (8D, B5) is a station wagon, which is known for combining sporty performance with practical utility. The Avant variant provides the handling and power of a performance car while maintaining a spacious and versatile interior associated with station wagons. This generation is notable for its 2.7-liter biturbo V6 engine, all-wheel-drive system (quattro), and a well-balanced chassis, making it a favorite among enthusiasts looking for a blend of sportiness and everyday usability.

The Audi S4 Avant (8D, B5) stands 1396 mm (54.9 inches) tall and measures 1733 mm (68.3 inches) in width. These dimensions create an interior that feels comfortable and adequately spacious for both front and rear passengers. The moderate height helps reduce wind resistance, contributing to performance and noise reduction, while the width provides enough shoulder room for a comfortable seating experience without making the vehicle overly wide for urban driving conditions.