Audi Audi RS4 2012-2015 Drivetrain Specifications
Audi Audi RS4 2012-2015

Audi Audi RS4 2012-2015 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 2012-2015 Audi RS4 drivetrain system, including the quattro all-wheel drive, 7-speed S tronic transmission, differentials, and torque vectoring. Ideal for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2012-2015 Audi RS4, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific drivetrain components or specifications by entering keywords such as 'transmission', 'differential', or 'torque split'.

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation sections using the table of contents or by scrolling through the document. Each major section is labeled with a title and contains subsections for detailed information.

Key Specifications

Engine Displacement

4.2L

Power Output

450 hp @ 8250 rpm

Torque

430 Nm @ 4000-6000 rpm

Transmission

7-speed S tronic

0-100 km/h

4.5 seconds

Available Specifications

Engine and Transmission

Details about the engine and transmission system, including specifications and performance metrics

Engine Specifications
  • 4.2L V8 FSI naturally aspirated engine
  • Maximum power output: 450 hp at 8250 rpm
  • Peak torque: 430 Nm at 4000-6000 rpm
  • Redline: 8250 rpm
Transmission System
  • 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission
  • Gear ratios: 1st - 4.714, 2nd - 3.143, 3rd - 2.106, 4th - 1.667, 5th - 1.286, 6th - 1.034, 7th - 0.839
  • Final drive ratio: 3.692
  • Quattro all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring

Note: The S tronic transmission provides rapid gear shifts and optimized performance for both manual and automatic modes.

All-Wheel Drive System

Technical details about the Quattro all-wheel drive system and its components

Quattro System Overview
  • Standard Quattro all-wheel drive system
  • Default torque split: 40% front, 60% rear
  • Dynamic torque distribution based on driving conditions
  • Integrated crown gear center differential
Torque Vectoring
  • Sport differential with torque vectoring capability
  • Active torque distribution between rear wheels
  • Enhances cornering stability and agility
  • Adjustable via Audi Drive Select system

Note: The sport differential is a key feature for improving handling and performance in dynamic driving scenarios.

Drivetrain Components

Detailed information about drivetrain components such as the driveshaft, differentials, and axles

Driveshaft and Axles
  • High-strength steel driveshaft
  • Front and rear axles with reinforced joints
  • Axle diameter: 32 mm (front), 34 mm (rear)
  • Weight-optimized design for improved performance
Differentials
  • Front and rear open differentials
  • Center differential with crown gear design
  • Locking capability for off-road or low-traction conditions
  • Oil capacity: 1.2 liters (front), 1.5 liters (rear)

Note: The differentials are designed to provide optimal traction and stability under various driving conditions.

Performance and Efficiency

Performance metrics and efficiency details of the drivetrain system

Acceleration and Top Speed
  • 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.5 seconds
  • Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph) (electronically limited)
  • Optional dynamic package increases top speed to 280 km/h (174 mph)
  • Power-to-weight ratio: 4.4 kg/hp
Fuel Efficiency
  • Combined fuel consumption: 10.7 L/100 km (22 mpg)
  • CO2 emissions: 249 g/km
  • Start-stop system for improved efficiency
  • Lightweight materials reduce overall drivetrain weight

Note: The start-stop system helps reduce fuel consumption during city driving.

Component Specifications

Engine

Type
4.2L V8 FSI
Displacement
4163 cc
Compression Ratio
12.5:1
Max Power
450 hp @ 8250 rpm
Max Torque
430 Nm @ 4000-6000 rpm
Redline
8500 rpm

Transmission

Type
7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic
Gear Ratios
1st: 3.78:1
2nd: 2.27:1
3rd: 1.53:1
4th: 1.15:1
5th: 0.92:1
6th: 0.76:1
7th: 0.63:1
Reverse: 3.61:1
Final Drive Ratio
3.333:1
Part Number
0B5 300 046 Q

Driveshaft

Material
High-strength steel
Diameter
80 mm
Length
1200 mm
Part Number
8K0 521 101 A

Differential

Type
Quattro all-wheel drive with self-locking center differential
Front Differential Ratio
3.333:1
Rear Differential Ratio
3.333:1
Torque Distribution
40:60 front:rear (default)
Part Number
0B5 409 010 B

Axles

Front Axle
Type: Independent, five-link front suspension
Axle Shaft Diameter: 32 mm
Part Number: 8K0 407 271 C
Rear Axle
Type: Independent, trapezoidal-link rear suspension
Axle Shaft Diameter: 34 mm
Part Number: 8K0 407 272 D

Clutch

Type
Dual wet clutch
Clutch Pack Diameter
230 mm
Clutch Material
Sintered metal
Part Number
0B5 141 033 A

Transfer Case

Type
Electronically controlled multi-plate clutch
Max Torque Capacity
500 Nm
Oil Capacity
1.2 liters
Part Number
0B5 409 020 C

Propeller Shaft

Material
Aluminum
Diameter
90 mm
Length
1500 mm
Part Number
8K0 521 103 B

Lubrication

Transmission Fluid Type
G 052 529 A2
Transmission Fluid Capacity
7.2 liters
Differential Fluid Type
G 052 145 S2
Differential Fluid Capacity
1.1 liters (front), 1.3 liters (rear)
Service interval
Every 40,000 miles or 48 months

Operational Limits

Max Engine Speed
8500 rpm
Max Transmission Temp
120°C
Max Differential Temp
110°C
Max Torque Output
430 Nm

Diagnostics

Fault Codes
  • P0730 - Incorrect gear ratio
  • P1701 - Transmission control module malfunction
  • P1890 - Transfer case clutch malfunction
Diagnostic Tools
  • VAS 5054A
  • ODIS (Offboard Diagnostic Information System)
Diagnostic interval
Every 20,000 miles or 24 months

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the drivetrain system

10,000
12
  • Inspect transmission fluid level
  • Check differential fluid level
  • Inspect driveshaft and propeller shaft for damage

Perform visual inspection and top-up fluids if necessary

40,000
48
  • Replace transmission fluid
  • Replace differential fluid
  • Inspect clutch system for wear

Use only Audi-approved fluids and parts

80,000
96
  • Inspect and replace worn driveshaft components
  • Check and adjust transfer case settings
  • Perform full diagnostic scan

Replace components as per manufacturer specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What type of drivetrain does the 2012-2015 Audi RS4 use?

The 2012-2015 Audi RS4 features a quattro all-wheel-drive (AWD) system with a self-locking center differential. This system distributes torque with a default 40:60 front-to-rear split, but can dynamically adjust up to 70:30 or 15:85 depending on driving conditions.

Q2

What is the torque capacity of the RS4's drivetrain?

The drivetrain is designed to handle up to 430 Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque, which is the maximum output of the 4.2-liter V8 FSI engine. The system is engineered to ensure optimal power delivery and durability under high-performance conditions.

Q3

How does the quattro system improve handling in the RS4?

The quattro system enhances handling by continuously monitoring wheel speeds, steering angle, and lateral acceleration. It adjusts torque distribution to maximize traction and stability, particularly during cornering, acceleration, and low-grip conditions.

Q4

What type of transmission is paired with the drivetrain?

The 2012-2015 Audi RS4 is equipped with a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. This transmission provides rapid gear shifts and seamless power delivery, complementing the quattro AWD system for optimal performance.

Q5

What is the recommended service interval for the drivetrain components?

Audi recommends inspecting the drivetrain components, including the differential and driveshafts, every 30,000 miles or 2 years, whichever comes first. Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance, especially under high-stress driving conditions.

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 RS4 Drivetrain Technical Overview

Coming Soon

Detailed technical documentation on the quattro AWD system, including torque distribution and differential operation.

S tronic Transmission Maintenance Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step guide for maintaining and servicing the 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission.

Quattro AWD System Troubleshooting

Coming Soon

Common issues and troubleshooting tips for the quattro all-wheel-drive system in the Audi RS4.

Genuine Audi Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Official catalog of genuine Audi parts for the RS4 drivetrain, including differentials, driveshafts, and transmission components.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

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