One to Buy: 19,000 mile ex-Jay Kay 2001 Audi B5 RS4 Avant
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After the Quattro had put Audi on the map thanks to its World Rally Championship exploits, the massively successful B5 A4 transformed the company into a genuine BMW and Mercedes-Benz rival.
A replacement for the outgoing 80 range and arguably the most desirable mid-size executive car on the market between 1994 and 2001, the A4 was offered with a variety of engine types, two or four-wheel drive and a choice of four-door Saloon or five-door Estate (Avant) bodywork.
Surprisingly, it wasn’t until September 1999 that Audi unveiled its range-topping A4 when the sensational RS4 Avant broke cover at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Just the second model to wear Audi’s revered RS moniker, this latest Renn Sport followed the iconic B4-based RS2 Avant produced in collaboration with Porsche between 1994 and ‘95.
Powered by a trick 2.7-litre 376bhp twin turbo V6, the all-wheel drive RS4 was enhanced with an array of chassis, body and interior tweaks that made it a tantalising alternative to a BMW M3 or Mercedes-Benz C-class AMG.
With most RS4s having racked up an intergalactic mileage after many years of daily use, finding a true collector-grade example is a difficult proposition. However, currently residing at the JZM Porsche showroom in Kings Lanley, Hertfordshire, is a remarkable late production machine with a particularly interesting history.
First registered in September 2001, JZM’s RS4 was originally a gift from Audi UK to Jamiroquai front man and noted collector, Jay Kay.
A super desirable non-sunroof RS4 configured in the attractive colour combination of Avus Silver with Black upholstery, this supeb two owner car has covered a little under 19,000 miles and is accompanied by a documented service history from new.
