Audi S5 V8 Engine for Sale | OEM Used Audi 4.2 Liter FSI V8 Engine for Audi S5
$2,499.00
At a Glance
- Condition: OEM used, compression and leak-down tested all 8 cylinders
- Availability: In stock, Audi 4.2 FSI V8 engine available (premium performance engine, limited availability)
- Shipping: Specialty heavy freight to all 50 states, 7 to 14 business days
- Engine verified as Audi 4.2 FSI V8 (the legendary high-revving naturally aspirated 4.2L V8 with FSI direct injection)
- Year and generation confirmed (4.2 FSI V8 production approximately 2006-2015 across Audi performance applications)
- Application confirmed (Audi S5 B8 2008-2012, RS4 B7 2006-2008, R8 4.2 V8 2007-2015)
- Horsepower rating documented (354 HP S5, 420 HP RS4, 420-430 HP R8 4.2 V8)
- Compression and leak-down tested all 8 cylinders
- Both cylinder banks condition documented (V8 has 2 banks of 4 cylinders at 90 degrees)
- FSI direct injection system documented (Fuel Stratified Injection – Audi direct injection)
- High-revving NA character documented (8,250-8,500 RPM redline on RS4 / R8 tunes)
- Timing chain condition assessed (4.2 FSI V8 uses timing chain)
- 15 day replacement warranty on internal defects
Description
About the Audi S5 V8 Engine
Looking for a replacement Audi S5 V8 engine? Part Nests sources OEM used Audi 4.2L FSI V8 engines for the prestigious Audi S5 B8, RS4 B7, and R8 4.2 V8 performance applications. The Audi 4.2 FSI V8 is one of the most legendary modern Audi performance engines, featuring high-revving naturally aspirated character (8,250-8,500 RPM redline on RS4 and R8 tunes), FSI direct injection, and outputs ranging from 354 HP in the S5 tune to 420 HP in the RS4 / R8 tune. The 4.2 FSI V8 represents a distinct generation of Audi V8 engineering, separate from the newer 4.0 TFSI twin-turbo V8 (the engine used in the Bentley V8 per our listing and in Audi RS6 / RS7 / S6 / S7 / S8 modern variants).
Engine Overview: Audi 4.2 FSI V8 Architecture
- Displacement: 4.2 liters (4,163 cc)
- Configuration: V8 (two banks of 4 cylinders at 90 degrees)
- Power Output: 354 HP (Audi S5 B8 tune) up to 430 HP (Audi R8 4.2 V8 LMS racing-derived tune)
- Peak Torque: 325-317 lb-ft depending on application
- Redline: Approximately 7,000 RPM (S5 tune) up to 8,250-8,500 RPM (RS4 / R8 tunes – high-revving NA character)
- Cylinder Head: Aluminum, DOHC per bank with variable valve timing
- Block: Aluminum
- Fuel System: FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection) – Audi’s direct injection technology with high-pressure HPDI fuel pump
- Naturally aspirated: NO turbocharger (this is the NA 4.2 FSI V8; distinct from the newer 4.0 TFSI twin-turbo V8)
- Compression Ratio: Approximately 12.5:1 (high compression typical for NA performance)
- Variable valve timing: Yes, variable valve timing on intake and exhaust camshafts
- Timing drive: Timing chain
- Production: Approximately 2006-2015 across Audi performance applications
- Origin: German-engineered, manufactured by Audi at the Gyor (Hungary) and Neckarsulm (Germany) facilities
Audi 4.2 FSI V8 vs 4.0 TFSI V8 Distinction (Critical Buyer Note)
The Audi 4.2 FSI V8 (this listing) and the Audi 4.0 TFSI V8 are DIFFERENT Audi V8 engine families and represent distinct generations:
- Displacement: 4.2 FSI V8 4.2L vs 4.0 TFSI V8 4.0L
- Forced induction: 4.2 FSI V8 (this listing) is NATURALLY ASPIRATED; 4.0 TFSI V8 is TWIN-TURBOCHARGED
- Fuel system: Both use direct injection but tuned differently for NA vs forced induction
- Power character: 4.2 FSI V8 high-revving NA with 8,250-8,500 RPM redline (in RS4 / R8 tunes); 4.0 TFSI V8 turbocharged with lower redline but higher peak power
- Production era: 4.2 FSI V8 2006-2015 vs 4.0 TFSI V8 2012 plus (some overlap)
- Applications: 4.2 FSI V8 in Audi S5 B8 / RS4 B7 / R8 4.2 V8 (this listing’s applications); 4.0 TFSI V8 in Audi S6 / S7 / S8 / RS6 / RS7 / Bentley Continental GT V8 / Flying Spur V8 / Bentayga V8 / Porsche Panamera Turbo / Lamborghini Urus
- Cross-application: 4.2 FSI V8 and 4.0 TFSI V8 are NOT directly interchangeable; cross-application requires substantial work including different engine bays / fuel systems / ECU / cooling
- Calling to verify: Call (855) 634-4447 with your specific application year to verify variant before ordering
Audi 4.2 FSI V8 Applications
- Audi S5 B8 (2008-2012): Primary US-market S5 application; 354 HP / 325 lb-ft; sports coupe with quattro AWD
- Audi RS4 B7 (2006-2008): High-performance RS4 sedan/Avant wagon with the most aggressive NA tune of the 4.2 FSI V8; 420 HP / 317 lb-ft; 8,250 RPM redline
- Audi R8 4.2 V8 (2007-2015): The R8 supercar mid-engine application; 420-430 HP across production years; the R8 is a unique application of this engine in mid-engine configuration
- Audi S4 B7 (some variants): Some S4 B7 variants used the 4.2 V8 (the S4 transitioned from V8 to supercharged V6 in later generations)
- Audi A8 (some variants): Some A8 luxury sedan variants used 4.2 V8 architecture (though A8 typically used different V8 generations)
- NOT current Audi performance applications: The 4.2 FSI V8 has been phased out in favor of the 4.0 TFSI V8 (turbocharged) and other modern Audi powertrains
High-Revving NA Character Significance
The Audi 4.2 FSI V8 (especially in RS4 and R8 tunes) is one of the most legendary modern high-revving naturally aspirated V8 engines:
- 8,250-8,500 RPM redline (RS4 / R8 tunes): The 4.2 FSI V8 in RS4 and R8 tunes revs to 8,250-8,500 RPM, exceptionally high for a road-car V8
- Race-derived heritage: The R8 LMS racing program derived the high-revving tune for the road car R8 4.2 V8
- NA performance character: NA engines are widely regarded as having more direct throttle response, more linear power delivery, and a more visceral high-RPM sound than turbocharged equivalents – the 4.2 FSI V8 exemplifies these NA performance virtues
- Lamborghini Gallardo relationship: The Audi R8 4.2 V8 shares architectural heritage with the Lamborghini Gallardo’s V10 engine family (both used Audi-Lamborghini engine architectures); the V8 and V10 derive from related design lineage
- Enthusiast appreciation: The 4.2 FSI V8 RS4 B7 (2006-2008) is widely regarded by Audi enthusiasts as one of the greatest Audi engines ever produced for its high-revving NA character and balance
Common Audi 4.2 FSI V8 Failure Modes
- Direct injection carbon buildup: Standard direct-injection pattern requiring walnut shell blasting service every 60,000-100,000 miles; budget for this service
- Timing chain tensioner failure (CRITICAL): The 4.2 FSI V8 has documented timing chain tensioner failures, particularly on RS4 B7 applications; chain rattle at startup is the warning sign; proactive tensioner replacement is recommended
- HPDI high-pressure fuel pump failure: The mechanical HPDI fuel pump can fail
- Oil consumption: Some 4.2 FSI V8 examples (especially high-mileage RS4 B7) exhibit elevated oil consumption
- Cooling system age: 10-20 plus year old engines have aged cooling system components
- Coil pack failure: The 8 individual coil packs can fail; common service item
- FSI fuel system contamination: The FSI direct injection system is sensitive to fuel quality
- High-RPM operation wear: Owners who regularly operate at high RPM (the 4.2 FSI V8’s natural element) experience accelerated wear on various components
Audi Engine Context
The Audi 4.2 FSI V8 (this listing) is one of several Audi-related engines in our catalog. The Bentley V8 engine (our listing) is the Volkswagen-Audi-Bentley 4.0 TFSI twin-turbo V8 – a related but distinct family of Volkswagen Group V8 engine (the modern turbocharged V8 successor in many applications). The Bentley W12 engine (our listing) is the Volkswagen-Bentley 6.0L twin-turbo W12. Audi A/C system parts for various Audi applications are covered by our (Audi 4000 Quattro A/C Compressor), (Audi 80 Series A/C Condenser), (Audi 90 Series A/C Condenser Fan), (Audi A8 A/C Wiring Harness), (Audi A4 A/C Evaporator), and (Audi A7 A/C Hose) listings.
Vehicle Compatibility
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Feature | Specification |
| Engine Codes | BNS (early B8) and CAUA (later B8) |
| Configuration | V8 90° DOHC 32-valve |
| Displacement | 4.2L (4,163 cc) |
| Bore x Stroke | 84.5 mm x 92.8 mm |
| Compression | 12.5:1 (high compression NA) |
| HP | 354 HP at 6,800 RPM |
| Torque | 325 lb-ft at 3,500 RPM |
| Redline | 7,200 RPM (high-revving) |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated (NOT turbo or supercharged) |
| Fuel System | FSI direct injection |
| Fuel Type | Premium 91+ octane mandatory |
| Timing | Timing chain (tensioner = primary service area) |
| Production | 2008-2012 (US B8 S5) |
4.2 FSI V8 Architecture Specifications
| Vehicle | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Audi S5 Coupe (B8 chassis) | 2008-2012 with 4.2 FSI V8 engine (BNS or CAUA engine code) |
| Audi S5 Cabriolet (B8 chassis) | 2010-2012 with 4.2 FSI V8 engine (CAUA engine code typical) |
| NOT Compatible | Post-2012 Audi S5 (B8.5 facelift 2013+, B9 generation 2018+) which uses 3.0L supercharged V6 (different engine entirely) |
| Related Architecture (NOT directly interchangeable) | Audi RS4 B7 (4.2 FSI V8 at 420 HP, different tuning), Audi R8 V8 (4.2 FSI V8 at 420 HP, mid-engine configuration), other Audi 4.2 V8 applications, all share fundamental 4.2L V8 architecture but with Audi RS / R8-specific tuning, ECU, intake, exhaust, and supporting components |
Why Buy From Part Nests
- Engine verified as Audi 4.2 FSI V8 (the legendary high-revving naturally aspirated 4.2L V8 with FSI direct injection)
- Year and generation confirmed (4.2 FSI V8 production approximately 2006-2015 across Audi performance applications)
- Application confirmed (Audi S5 B8 2008-2012, RS4 B7 2006-2008, R8 4.2 V8 2007-2015)
- Horsepower rating documented (354 HP S5, 420 HP RS4, 420-430 HP R8 4.2 V8)
- Compression and leak-down tested all 8 cylinders
- Both cylinder banks condition documented (V8 has 2 banks of 4 cylinders at 90 degrees)
- FSI direct injection system documented (Fuel Stratified Injection – Audi direct injection)
- High-revving NA character documented (8,250-8,500 RPM redline on RS4 / R8 tunes)
- Timing chain condition assessed (4.2 FSI V8 uses timing chain)
- Specialty heavy freight to all 50 states
- 15 day replacement warranty on internal defects
- Audi performance engine experience and 4.2 FSI V8 / 4.0 TFSI V8 distinction and timing chain tensioner concern knowledge from our support team
- Call (855) 634-4447 for application verification and to place your order.
15 Day Replacement Warranty
Every used Audi 4.2 FSI V8 engine purchased through Part Nests carries a 15 day replacement warranty starting on the delivery date. Audi 4.2 FSI V8 service requires specialized expertise; verify your installer has Audi performance V8 experience before installation.
What Is Covered
- Internal defects already present when the engine arrives
- Compression failures on any of the 8 cylinders beyond what was disclosed
- Cylinder head crack failures within 15 days from installation (either cylinder bank)
- Block crack failures within 15 days from installation
- Connecting rod, bearing, or crankshaft failures within 15 days from installation
- Head gasket failures within 15 days from installation
- Timing chain and tensioner failures within 15 days from installation (the well-documented 4.2 FSI V8 RS4 B7 concern)
- HPDI high-pressure fuel pump failures within 15 days from installation
- FSI direct injection system failures within 15 days from installation
- Incorrect variant shipped (4.2 FSI V8 vs 4.0 TFSI V8 mismatch where variant was documented) due to an error on our end
What Is Not Covered
- Damage caused during installation (Audi 4.2 FSI V8 installation requires specialized expertise)
- Damage from incorrect engine oil (Audi specifies VW 502 00 / 504 00 spec synthetic oil)
- Damage from extended oil change intervals
- Damage from using regular fuel (the 12.5:1 high compression ratio requires premium 91-93 octane minimum)
- Damage from sustained operation at high RPM (8,000 plus RPM the 4.2 FSI V8's natural element) without proper maintenance discipline
- Damage from a single overheating event
- Damage from neglected carbon cleaning (direct-injection inherent service requirement)
- Damage from neglected timing chain tensioner replacement at high mileage (the well-documented RS4 B7 concern)
- Damage from aftermarket modifications beyond Audi specification
- External components (intake manifold, exhaust manifolds, ECU and wiring harness, accessory drive, transmission, AC compressor, alternator, starter, fuel tank, fuel lines outside engine) unless itemized
- Labor expenses of any kind
To start a warranty claim, reach us within 15 days of delivery at (855) 634-4447.
- All 8 Cylinders Compression and Leak-Down Tested: Results documented before payment
- Engine Verified: Audi 4.2 FSI V8 NA (NOT the 4.0 TFSI twin-turbo V8)
- Year and Generation Confirmed: 2006-2015 across Audi performance applications
- Application Confirmed: S5 B8 / RS4 B7 / R8 4.2 V8
- Horsepower Rating Documented: 354-430 HP varying by tune
- FSI Direct Injection Documented: Audi Fuel Stratified Injection
- High-Revving NA Character: 8,250-8,500 RPM redline (RS4 / R8 tunes)
- 15 Day Replacement Cover: Internal defects protected from delivery onward
Additional information
| Brand | Audi |
|---|---|
| engine-type | V8 90° DOHC 32-valve, naturally aspirated, FSI direct injection |
| engine-codes | BNS (2008-2009), CAUA (2010-2012) |
| manufacturer | Audi AG (VW-Audi Group) |
| configuration | V8 90° (longitudinal mount) |
| displacement | 4.2L (4, 163 cc) |
| bore-x-stroke | 84.5 mm x 92.8 mm |
| hp | 354 HP at 6, 800 RPM |
| torque | 325 lb-ft at 3, 500 RPM |
| redline | 7, 200 RPM |
| compression | 12.5:1 (high compression NA) |
| aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| fuel-system | FSI direct injection |
| fuel-type | Premium 91+ octane mandatory |
| valvetrain | DOHC, 32 valves, chain-driven |
| block-material | All-aluminum with iron liners |
| head-material | Aluminum (DOHC) |
| timing-system | Timing chain (tensioner = primary service area) |
| production-years | 2008-2012 (US B8 S5) |
| direct-fit | B8 S5 Coupe 2008-2012, B8 S5 Cabriolet 2010-2012 |
Audi's legendary 4.2L FSI V8 naturally aspirated performance engine. The Audi 4.2 FSI V8 is one of the most legendary modern Audi performance engines, featuring high-revving naturally aspirated character, FSI direct injection, and outputs ranging from 354 HP in the S5 tune to 420 HP in the RS4 / R8 tune. The 4.2 FSI V8 represents a distinct generation of Audi V8 engineering, separate from the newer 4.0 TFSI twin-turbo V8. Specifications: 4.2 liters (4,163 cc), V8 (two banks of 4 cylinders), 354-430 HP depending on application, 325-317 lb-ft torque, 7,000-8,500 RPM redline depending on tune, aluminum DOHC heads with variable valve timing, aluminum block, FSI direct injection, NATURALLY ASPIRATED, compression 12.5:1, timing chain driven.
Different generations - 4.2 NA vs 4.0 twin-turbo, NOT interchangeable. The Audi 4.2 FSI V8 (this listing) and the Audi 4.0 TFSI V8 are DIFFERENT Audi V8 engine families. Displacement: 4.2 FSI V8 4.2L vs 4.0 TFSI V8 4.0L. Forced induction: 4.2 FSI V8 is NATURALLY ASPIRATED; 4.0 TFSI V8 is TWIN-TURBOCHARGED. Power character: 4.2 FSI V8 high-revving NA with 8,250-8,500 RPM redline (RS4 / R8 tunes); 4.0 TFSI V8 turbocharged with lower redline but higher peak power. Production era: 4.2 FSI V8 2006-2015 vs 4.0 TFSI V8 2012 plus. Applications: 4.2 FSI V8 in Audi S5 B8 / RS4 B7 / R8 4.2 V8; 4.0 TFSI V8 in Audi S6 / S7 / S8 / RS6 / RS7 / Bentley V8 / Porsche Panamera Turbo / Lamborghini Urus. Cross-application: NOT directly interchangeable.
S5 B8, RS4 B7, R8 4.2 V8, and select other Audi performance variants. Audi S5 B8 (2008-2012): primary US-market S5 application; 354 HP / 325 lb-ft; sports coupe with quattro AWD. Audi RS4 B7 (2006-2008): high-performance RS4 sedan/Avant wagon with the most aggressive NA tune of the 4.2 FSI V8; 420 HP / 317 lb-ft; 8,250 RPM redline. Audi R8 4.2 V8 (2007-2015): the R8 supercar mid-engine application; 420-430 HP; the R8 is a unique application of this engine in mid-engine configuration. Audi S4 B7 (some variants): some S4 B7 variants used the 4.2 V8. Audi A8 (some variants): some A8 luxury sedan variants used 4.2 V8 architecture. NOT current Audi performance applications: the 4.2 FSI V8 has been phased out in favor of the 4.0 TFSI V8 (turbocharged) and other modern Audi powertrains.
One of the most legendary modern high-revving naturally aspirated V8 engines. The Audi 4.2 FSI V8 (especially in RS4 and R8 tunes) is one of the most legendary modern high-revving naturally aspirated V8 engines. 8,250-8,500 RPM redline (RS4 / R8 tunes): exceptionally high for a road-car V8. Race-derived heritage: the R8 LMS racing program derived the high-revving tune for the road car R8 4.2 V8. NA performance character: NA engines are widely regarded as having more direct throttle response, more linear power delivery, and a more visceral high-RPM sound than turbocharged equivalents - the 4.2 FSI V8 exemplifies these NA performance virtues. Lamborghini Gallardo relationship: the Audi R8 4.2 V8 shares architectural heritage with the Lamborghini Gallardo's V10 engine family. Enthusiast appreciation: the RS4 B7 is widely regarded by Audi enthusiasts as one of the greatest Audi engines ever produced.
Well-documented RS4 B7 failure - proactive replacement recommended. The 4.2 FSI V8 has documented timing chain tensioner failures, particularly on RS4 B7 applications. Failure pattern: timing chain tensioners can wear or fail; this causes timing chain rattle at startup as the warning sign; in severe cases can cause valve/piston contact. Documented across community: well-documented in Audi performance community; numerous service bulletins and aftermarket reinforced tensioner kits. Proactive replacement: budget for proactive tensioner replacement when acquiring a used 4.2 FSI V8 engine, especially RS4 B7 variants. Cost: budget $2,500-5,000 for proactive tensioner and chain service. The condition is verified before sale on every Part Nests 4.2 FSI V8.
Eight modes with timing chain tensioner and DI carbon as critical concerns. Direct injection carbon buildup: standard direct-injection pattern requiring walnut shell blasting service every 60,000-100,000 miles. Timing chain tensioner failure (CRITICAL): documented failures particularly on RS4 B7; chain rattle at startup is the warning sign. HPDI high-pressure fuel pump failure: the mechanical HPDI fuel pump can fail. Oil consumption: some examples (especially high-mileage RS4 B7) exhibit elevated oil consumption. Cooling system age: 10-20 plus year old engines have aged cooling system components. Coil pack failure: the 8 individual coil packs can fail; common service item. FSI fuel system contamination: the FSI direct injection system is sensitive to fuel quality. High-RPM operation wear: owners who regularly operate at high RPM experience accelerated wear.
Carbon cleaning, timing chain tensioner CRITICAL, HPDI inspection, premium fuel. After acquiring a used Audi 4.2 FSI V8 engine, budget for these items. Carbon cleaning (CRITICAL for direct injection): budget $1,500-3,500 walnut shell blasting service every 60,000-100,000 miles; non-negotiable for FSI longevity. Timing chain tensioner replacement (CRITICAL for RS4 B7): budget $2,500-5,000 for proactive tensioner and chain service. HPDI fuel pump inspection: budget $1,500-3,500 for HPDI replacement if at high mileage. Coil pack inspection / replacement: budget $400-800 for full set of 8 coil packs as preventive maintenance. Strict premium synthetic oil maintenance with Audi-approved specification (VW 502 00 / 504 00). Premium fuel discipline: 91-93 octane required due to 12.5:1 compression. Cooling system service. Specialized Audi performance service expertise required.
No. There is no core return required.










Frederik N. –
Got mine for the Audi S5 V8 Engine. In and installed same weekend.
Adelaide H. –
Fit the Audi S5 V8 Engine the way it should. No hassles.