The Audi AVV is a 2,781 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2001. It was part of Audi's 2.8L V6 family and featured a 30-valve configuration with five valves per cylinder and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). This engine delivered 140 kW (190 PS) at 5,800 rpm and 270 Nm of torque at 3,200 rpm, providing smooth high-RPM performance ideal for grand touring applications.
Fitted to models such as the Audi A4 (B5), A6 (C5), and A8 (D2), the AVV engine was engineered for refinement and linear power delivery. It featured sequential multi-point fuel injection (MOTRONIC ME7.1) and variable intake manifold geometry (AUDI VALVETRONIC) to enhance mid-range torque and drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter, enabling Euro 2 and early Euro 3 compliance depending on model year and market.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear, particularly in engines subjected to extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 01 07 03, is attributed to inadequate lubrication under high-load conditions and use of non-compliant oil specifications. Later revisions of the 2.8L V6 incorporated revised camshaft materials and oil pump calibration to mitigate wear risks.
Production years 1995–1999 meet Euro 2 standards; 2000–2001 models comply with Euro 3 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi AVV is a 2,781 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and luxury coupes (1995-2001). It combines 30-valve DOHC architecture with variable intake geometry to deliver smooth high-RPM power and responsive mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 2 and Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances refinement with performance in Audi's front- and quattro-driven platforms.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,781 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 30-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.5 mm × 83.0 mm | |
| Power output | 140 kW (190 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (MOTRONIC ME7.1) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (pre-2000); Euro 3 (2000–2001) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row timing chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-40, ACEA A3/B3 | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The 30-valve V6 provides smooth, high-RPM performance but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using ACEA A3/B3-compliant 5W-40 oil to prevent camshaft wear. The front-mounted timing chain is generally durable but can suffer from tensioner wear after 200,000 km. Variable intake manifold actuators require periodic inspection to prevent vacuum leaks and performance loss. The MOTRONIC ME7.1 engine management system is sensitive to vacuum integrity and sensor degradation, requiring diagnostic scanning for accurate fault resolution. Use of low-octane fuel may trigger knock sensor intervention, reducing power output.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A3/B3 specification (Audi SIB 01 07 03). BMW Longlife or VW 502 00 oils are acceptable substitutes.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to pre-2000 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 3 compliance confirmed for 2000-2001 models in UK markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output assumes 98 RON fuel and proper engine calibration (Audi TIS Doc. A32010).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31250, A31572, SIB 01 07 03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Audi AVV was used across Audi's B5/C5 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Volkswagen Group V6 engines. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-variable intake tuning in the A4 and enhanced cooling in the A8-and from 2000 the updated A6 C5 facelift adopted revised engine management for improved emissions, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the engine block, near the timing cover (Audi TIS A31250). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for 2.8L V6). Pre-1998 models have silver valve covers with ribbed finish; post-1998 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 12-valve 2.8L: The AVV has five valves per cylinder and a 30-valve designation on the intake manifold. Service parts require model-year verification—intake manifolds for pre-2000 A4 B5 models are not compatible with C5 A6 units due to throttle body orientation (Audi SIB 02 05 08).
The AVV's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles with irregular maintenance. Audi internal reports from 2002 indicated camshaft replacement in approximately 15% of engines exceeding 180,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows valve train noise as a leading cause of advisory notes in V6 petrol Audis. Extended oil intervals and low-RPM driving increase wear risk, making oil quality and change frequency critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (1998-2003) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1999-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI AVV.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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