Audi Audi A8 1994-2002 4.2L Engine Engine Specifications
Audi Audi A8 1994-2002

Audi Audi A8 1994-2002 4.2L Engine Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 4.2L V8 engine in the 1994-2002 Audi A8. Includes performance metrics, system details, and maintenance guidelines for the Audi A8 D2 platform.

Updated

1994-2002 Audi A8 4.2L Engine Specifications Specifications

This document provides detailed specifications and technical information for the 4.2L engine used in the 1994-2002 Audi A8. It is designed to serve as a reference guide for mechanics, enthusiasts, and researchers. The document is organized into sections covering engine overview, performance, technical features, and maintenance. Use the search functionality to find specific details or navigate through sections to explore the information systematically.

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Key Specifications

Horsepower

300 HP (224 kW)

Torque

317 lb-ft (430 Nm)

Displacement

4.2L (4,172 cc)

Cylinders

V8

Top Speed

155 mph (250 km/h)

Available Specifications

Engine Overview

This section provides a general overview of the 4.2L engine, including its design, configuration, and basic specifications. It serves as an introduction to the engine's architecture and key features.

Engine Type and Configuration
  • 4.2L V8 engine
  • 90-degree V configuration
  • Aluminum alloy block and cylinder heads
  • Double overhead camshafts (DOHC)
  • 32 valves with variable valve timing
Displacement and Cylinders
  • Displacement: 4,172 cc (4.2L)
  • Bore x Stroke: 84.5 mm x 93 mm
  • Cylinder spacing: 90 mm
  • Compression ratio: 10.5:1
  • Fuel type: Premium unleaded gasoline

Performance

This section details the performance capabilities of the 4.2L engine, including horsepower, torque, and acceleration. It also covers fuel efficiency and emissions standards.

Power and Torque
  • Horsepower: 300 HP (224 kW) at 6,000 rpm
  • Torque: 317 lb-ft (430 Nm) at 3,300 rpm
  • Redline: 6,500 rpm
  • Peak power delivery: Smooth and linear across the rev range
  • Torque delivery: Strong mid-range torque for excellent responsiveness
Acceleration and Top Speed
  • 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h): Approximately 6.8 seconds
  • Top speed: Electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h)
  • Quarter-mile time: ~14.8 seconds
  • Fuel efficiency: City - 12 mpg (19.2 L/100km), Highway - 20 mpg (11.9 L/100km)
  • Emissions standards: Meets Euro 2 and EPA standards for its model year

Technical Features

This section highlights the advanced technical features of the 4.2L engine, including fuel injection, engine management, and cooling systems. It also covers emissions control and other notable technologies.

Fuel Injection and Engine Management
  • Multi-point fuel injection system
  • Bosch Motronic engine management system
  • Electronic throttle control (E-Gas)
  • Adaptive knock control for optimal fuel efficiency and performance
  • Real-time monitoring of engine parameters
Cooling and Lubrication
  • Dual-row primary radiator for efficient cooling
  • Electric cooling fan with variable speed control
  • Pressurized wet-sump lubrication system
  • Oil cooler integrated into the radiator
  • Synthetic 5W-40 oil recommended
Emissions Control
  • Catalytic converter with secondary air injection
  • Evaporative emissions control (EVAP) system
  • EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system
  • OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliance
  • Reduced emissions compared to previous models

Maintenance and Service

This section provides information on routine maintenance, service intervals, and common repairs for the 4.2L engine. It is essential for owners and technicians to ensure the engine's longevity and optimal performance.

Service Intervals
  • Oil change interval: Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km)
  • Spark plug replacement: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
  • Belt replacement: Timing belt every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
  • Brake fluid change: Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
  • Coolant change: Every 5 years or 50,000 miles (80,000 km)
Common Issues and Repairs
  • Timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule
  • Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket
  • Coolant leaks from radiator and hoses
  • Faulty oxygen sensors causing poor fuel efficiency
  • Mass airflow sensor contamination leading to rough idle

Engine Specifications

Overview

Type
V8
Configuration
90-degree V8
Platform
D2
Material
Aluminum alloy
Location
Longitudinal
Cylinders
8

Dimensions

Engine Length
19.2 in (489 mm)
Engine Width
15.7 in (399 mm)
Engine Height
18.9 in (480 mm)
Dry Weight
203 lbs (92 kg)
Displacement
4.2 liters (4180 cc)
Oil Capacity
6 quarts (5.7 liters)

Materials

Engine Block
Aluminum alloy
Cylinder Head
Aluminum alloy
Crankshaft
Forged steel
Camshaft
Hardened steel
Valves
Stainless steel

Features

Fuel System
  • Multi-point fuel injection
  • Electronic throttle control
  • Adaptive fuel mapping
Valvetrain
  • Double overhead camshaft (DOHC)
  • 4 valves per cylinder
  • Variable valve timing
Cooling System
  • Water-cooled
  • Dual-stage coolant pump
  • Thermostat-controlled
Exhaust System
  • Dual exhaust
  • Catalytic converters
  • Stainless steel construction
Engine Management
  • Bosch Motronic ME 7.1 ECU
  • Knock sensors
  • Oxygen sensors

Safety Features

Engine Protection
  • Engine immobilizer
  • Fuel cut-off in case of collision
  • Automatic tensioner
Temperature Control
Overheat protection system
Knock Sensors
Integrated knock sensors

Comfort Features

Noise Reduction
  • Acoustic engine cover
  • Sound-dampening materials
Smooth Operation
  • Hydraulic engine mounts
  • Balanced crankshaft
Climate Control integration
Heated engine block
Refined Performance
Smooth power delivery

Accessories

Engine Accessories
  • Engine cover
  • Oil dipstick
  • Coolant reservoir
Performance Accessories
  • Performance air filter
  • Aftermarket exhaust system
  • Engine tuning software
Protection Accessories
  • Engine skid plate
  • Oil pan guard
  • Heat shield

Maintenance

Service interval
  • Oil change every 5,000 miles
  • Spark plug replacement every 30,000 miles
  • Belt replacement every 60,000 miles
  • Fluid flush every 30,000 miles
  • Air filter replacement every 15,000 miles
Maintenance Notes
  • Use synthetic oil 5W-40
  • Check coolant level regularly
  • Inspect belts for cracks
  • Replace wiper blades as needed

Warranty

Basic Warranty
Miles: 50,000 miles
Years: 4 years
Coverage: Bumper-to-bumper
Powertrain Warranty
Miles: 70,000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: Drivetrain components
Corrosion Warranty
Miles: Unlimited miles
Years: 12 years
Coverage: Perforation due to corrosion
Emissions Warranty
Miles: 80,000 miles
Years: 8 years
Coverage: Emissions-related components

Production Details

Manufacturer
Audi AG
Manufacturing Process
  • CNC machining
  • Aluminum casting
  • Balancing processes
  • Quality control inspections
Quality Control
inspection Checklist: Dimensional checks, Material quality, Performance tests
Certifications: ISO 9001, IATF 16949
Sustainability Practices
  • Recycling of materials
  • Energy-efficient production
  • Reduced emissions manufacturing
Production Metrics
Annual Production: Approximately 10,000 units
Manufacturing Time: About 20 hours per engine
Defect Rate: Less than 1%
Warranty Claims: Low rate of claims

Service Information for 4.2l engine Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

5,000 miles
6 months
  • Oil change with filter replacement
  • Tire pressure check and adjustment
  • Brake pad inspection
  • Suspension and steering inspection
  • Battery terminals cleaning

Essential for maintaining engine performance and longevity

15,000 miles
12 months
  • Air filter replacement
  • Cabin air filter replacement
  • Belts and hoses inspection
  • Fluid levels check
  • Spark plug inspection

Preventive maintenance to avoid unexpected repairs

30,000 miles
24 months
  • Spark plug replacement
  • Fuel filter replacement
  • Drive belts inspection and replacement if needed
  • Transmission fluid change
  • Coolant flush and replacement

Critical for sustaining engine health and performance

Common Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What is the horsepower output of the 4.2L V8 engine in the 1994-2002 Audi A8?

The 4.2L V8 engine in the 1994-2002 Audi A8 produces 300 horsepower at 6,500 RPM and 295 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 RPM.

Q2

What type of fuel system does the 4.2L engine use?

The 4.2L engine utilizes a sequential multi-port fuel injection (SFI) system, ensuring precise fuel delivery and optimal combustion efficiency.

Q3

What is the recommended oil type and capacity for the 4.2L engine?

The recommended oil type is fully synthetic 5W-40 or 10W-40, meeting Audi specification VW 502 00. The oil capacity is approximately 7.5 liters (7.9 quarts) including the oil filter.

Q4

What is the engine displacement of the 4.2L V8?

The engine displacement is 4,172 cc (4.2 liters), with a bore of 84.5 mm and a stroke of 93.0 mm.

Q5

What is the recommended service interval for the timing belt on the 4.2L engine?

The timing belt should be replaced every 60,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first. Failure to replace the timing belt can result in catastrophic engine damage.

Q6

Does the 4.2L engine feature variable valve timing?

No, the 4.2L engine in the 1994-2002 Audi A8 does not feature variable valve timing. It uses a fixed valve timing system with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC).

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

Audi 4.2L V8 Engine Service Manual

Coming Soon

Official service manual for the 4.2L V8 engine, covering maintenance, repair procedures, and technical specifications.

Timing Belt Replacement Guide for 4.2L Engine

Coming Soon

Step-by-step guide for replacing the timing belt on the 4.2L V8 engine, including torque specifications and safety precautions.

Audi 4.2L Engine Oil and Fluid Specifications

Coming Soon

Detailed information on recommended oil types, capacities, and fluid specifications for the 4.2L V8 engine.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting for 4.2L Engine

Coming Soon

A comprehensive guide to diagnosing and resolving common issues with the 4.2L V8 engine, including error codes and solutions.

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About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
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Alan Montanye

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