Sell Your Audi

Audi's performance and enthusiast models have a loyal and growing following. From the RS models now regarded as modern classics to the Quattro icons of the 1980s: the brand attracts buyers willing to pay a premium for the right example. On a regular classifieds site, your special Audi gets lost in the crowd. At Octane, every car is presented to an audience that understands its value.

RS and S: the core of Audi's performance

The RS models form the heart of Audi's sporting identity. The RS2 Avant, developed together with Porsche, is regarded as the car that invented the concept of the super-fast estate. The B5 RS4, B7 RS4 with its naturally aspirated V8, and the C5 RS6 with twin-turbo V8 are now established collectibles with strong price development. More recent RS models such as the RS3 with its distinctive five-cylinder, the RS4, RS5, and RS6 each have their own following. The S models, from S3 to S8, form the gateway to Audi's performance line and are increasingly sought after as sporty daily drivers with a good balance between comfort and power.

Quattro heritage and rally icons

The Ur-Quattro from 1980 changed motorsport forever. The Sport Quattro, of which only 214 examples were built, is one of the most coveted cars in the world. But later Quattro models with their permanent all-wheel drive also have a loyal following. The Quattro system is a common thread through Audi's history and a feature that buyers actively seek out. The rally heritage gives these models a story that far transcends specifications and horsepower figures.

R8, TT, and the electric future

The R8 proved that Audi could build a fully-fledged supercar. With its mid-mounted V8 (later V10) and a direct connection to the Le Mans-winning R8 LMS, it is a model that will only appreciate in value in the coming years, especially manual transmission versions. The TT has carved out its own place as a design icon, with the TTRS and TTS as sporting highlights and the original Mk1 TT as a future classic. The RS e-tron GT shows that Audi's performance future is electric, attracting a new audience of technology-oriented enthusiasts.

RS models: documentation and service history

For RS models, a complete and documented service history is essential. Buyers expect invoices from Audi dealers or recognised specialists. Original specification with all option codes, a complete key set, and the original service booklet significantly increase attractiveness. For older RS models such as the RS2 and B5 RS4, matching numbers and a documented ownership history are decisive for value.

Known issues by engine and model

• RS2 (2.2 turbo five-cylinder): Turbo condition, cooling system, and brake master cylinders. Original Porsche brakes are a plus. Watch for rust at wheel arches and sills
• B5 RS4 (2.7 V6 biturbo): Turbo wear, intercooler condition, known issues with the tiptronic gearbox at higher mileages. K04 turbos versus original K03s
• C5 RS6 (4.2 V8 biturbo): Turbo line leaks, catalytic converter condition, known issues with rear turbo seals
• B7 RS4 (4.2 V8 naturally aspirated): Valve guides and oil consumption at higher mileages, DRC suspension replacement
• RS3/TTRS (2.5 TFSI five-cylinder): Relatively reliable, but check clutch condition on manual versions and the Haldex unit
• R8 (V8 and V10): Magnetic ride dampers (replacement costs), condition of sideblade panels (if carbon fibre), clutch wear on R-tronic/S-tronic versions

Specification and originality

Specification matters enormously for Audi. For RS models, the Dynamic package, ceramic brakes, carbon interior trim, and sport seats (Recaro or Audi Sport) are sought-after options. For the R8, the manual gearbox, carbon sigma sideblade, and Bang & Olufsen sound system add value. Rare colours, especially Exclusive paint finishes, attract extra interest. For the Ur-Quattro and Sport Quattro, complete originality matters most.

Good maintenance outweighs low mileage. An RS that has been regularly driven and documented serviced by a specialist is more convincing than an example that has sat idle for years.