The overwhelming number of models that some car manufacturers offer to the public can make differentiating between them difficult. Adding to the confusion is the fact that there are usually different versions within a model range. Audi has made A4s, A3s, A6s, A8s, etc., and also offers different versions of each model, such as the high-performance S4s, S6s, RS4s, etc. The 2006 A4 S Line was a special version of the popular A4.
The A4 is Audi's mid-range luxury car and competes with other vehicles such as the BMW 3 Series in its segment. The A4 is powered by either a V-6 or a turbocharged in-line four-cylinder. The S4 is a high performance version of the A4, much like the BMW M3 is a high performance version of the 3 Series. The 2006 S4 was powered by a 340-horsepower V-8 engine and had a sport tuned suspension and brakes, different wheels and more aggressive exterior styling. The A4 S Line is slotted between the A4 and the S4, giving the owners a little of both models. The S Line is Audi's way of referring to the Sport package.
The 2006 A4 S Line was equipped with either a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder or a 3.2-liter naturally aspirated V-6 engine that produced 255 horsepower. The addition of the S Line package does not include any changes to either engine.
In an attempt to bridge the gap between the standard A4 and the high-performance S4, Audi gave the A4 S Line a bevy of accessories that are similar, but not identical, to those of the S4. The S Line's front end styling and aero body kit look similar to the S4's, as do the wheels. The suspension on the S Line is sport tuned for handling that brings the car closer to the S4's performance. Completing the illusion are S4-like, multi-spoke alloy wheels and "S" badges fastened to the exterior of the car. The interior remains virtually the same as a standard A4, with the exception of S Line badging.
The S Line cost more than the A4 when it was sold in 2006. The base price for an A4 with the V-6 engine and six-speed manual was $34,480. The S Line package added $2,750 to the base price. Add on other options like special paint, and the Premium Package and the A4 S Line could exceed $40,000 out the door. However, for car buyers who place a premium on sporty aesthetics and performance, the extra money was likely well worth it, since it was still less than the cost the high-end S4.
