2002 Audi S6

There are few things more entertaining than blowing past a Corvette in a station wagon.

Yes, it’s possible, especially if the Corvette driver is surprised by the move. And believe me, few Corvette pilots expect to be challenged by a midsize station wagon.

But then, not every wagon is a 2002 Audi S6 Avant — or in the case of the tested model, an S6 Avant quattro AT5. The “quattro” name is Audi-speak for permanent all-wheel drive, a feature that dovetails nicely with the 4.2-liter, 340 horsepower V-8 engine with five valves per cylinder.

Oh, yes, this is one red-hot wagon.

When asked, the S6 Avant delivers big-time. It can whip through a hard, flat corner at 80 mph with nary a wiggle. Like a monorail.

Maximum torque is laid down at a mere 3,400 revolutions per minute. The monster torque output is managed beautifully through the five-speed “Tiptronic” transmission, the “quattro” AWD, an anti-slip system and an electronic stability system.

The S6 Avant feels much lighter on its wheels than its advertised curb weight of 4,024 pounds — the zero-to-60 mph time is 6.8 seconds. Four-wheel vented disc brakes bring all that weight to a stop quickly and firmly. There’s even a brake-assist system that automatically activates maximum brake pressure in an emergency.

To be sure, there are trade-offs for all this performance.

Fuel economy is an absolutely forgettable 14 miles per gallon in city driving and 21 mpg on the highway. And don’t even get me started on the $2,100 gas guzzler tax on the car’s sticker.

With a base price of $58,700, you naturally want something more than Trans Am-like performance. Relax, the Audi S6 Avant has plenty of luxury, comfort and convenience features to make you feel appropriately spoiled.

A short list of standard amenities on the tested model included dual-zone climate control, heated 12-way power front seats, a power-adjustable steering column, wood inlays throughout the interior cabin and a premium sound system with six-disc CD changer.

The test Audi also came with a navigation system, a $1,350 option that included all the bells and whistles. Had I forgotten my briefcase, I’m certain the navigation system would have audibly informed me of that, with stern warnings about the consequences of future oversights.

Happily, Audi designers resisted the temptation to overdo the exterior to match the S6 Avant’s hot-rod characteristics. Styling is sporty, not gaudy.

Nice touches include the polished aluminum double grille, eye-catching cast alloy wheels, aluminum roof rails and dual exhaust tailpipes. And will wonders never cease — there’s a standard full-size spare tire complete with a cast alloy wheel!

Per usual for Audi, safety features are numerous and excellent. Latest-generation air bags are positioned in the front and sides of the interior cabin. Curtain air bags are designed to keep occupants away from the wagon’s glass and roof pillars in the event of a side impact. Front seat belts include force limiters, and well-padded head restraints are standard on all seating positions in the vehicle.

The standard warranty is four years/50,000 miles, with four years of 24-hour roadside assistance part of the deal.

Is this a wagon for the well-to-do? You bet your quattro it is.

But given the level of engineering in the Audi S6 Avant, the nearly $60,000 price seems like a bargain — especially if your idea of fun is putting one over on a Corvette driver.

Make/model: 2002 Audi S6 Avant quattro AT5.

Vehicle type: Midsize, five-passenger, all-wheel drive, luxury sport wagon.

Base price: $58,700 (as tested, $62,975).

Engine: 4.2-liter V-8 with 340 horsepower at 7,000 revolutions per minute and 310 foot-pounds of torque at 3,400 rpm.

EPA fuel economy: 14 miles per gallon city; 21 mpg highway.

Transmission: Electronic five-speed automatic with “Tiptronic” manual shifting mode, “quattro” permanent all-wheel drive and other special features.

Steering: Power rack and pinion with speed-sensitive feature.

Brakes: Four-wheel vented discs with power, anti-lock and other special features.

Suspension type: Four-link on front with control arms and stabilizer bar; double-A arm fully independent on rear with stabilizer bar and coil springs.

Interior volume: 98.3 cubic feet.

Cargo volume: 36.4 cubic feet (73.2 cubic feet with rear seat folded).

Fuel tank: 21.7 gallons.

Curb weight: 4,024 pounds.

Front track: 62.1 inches.

Rear track: 62.6 inches.

Height: 57 inches.

Length: 193.4 inches.

Wheelbase: 108.6 inches.

Width: 76.1 inches.

Tires: P255/40ZR17 high-performance tires.

Final assembly point: Neckarsulm, Germany.