AUDI R8 V8 4.2 FSI quattro BYH Engine

The BYH engine is a highly acclaimed, naturally aspirated 4.2-liter FSI V8 gasoline engine specifically developed for the first-generation (Type 42) Audi R8 Coupe 4.2 FSI quattro. Produced between 2007 and 2015, this high-revving mid-rear engine layout is heavily modified from the B7 RS4 engine to accommodate true supercar dynamics.

Core Technical Specifications

The engine relies on Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) direct injection technology and is designed to endure high cornering g-forces through a performance-oriented oil configuration.

• Engine Configuration: 90-degree V8, 32-Valves, DOHC.
• Displacement: 4,163 cc (4.2 Liters).
• Maximum Power: 420 PS (414 hp / 309 kW) @ 7,800 rpm.
• Maximum Torque: 430 Nm (317 lb-ft) available from 4,500 to 6,000 rpm.
• Maximum Rev Limit: 8,250 rpm redline.
• Lubrication System: Dry-sump lubrication, utilizing an external oil tank to prevent oil starvation during intense track driving.
• Environmental Class: Meets Euro 4 emission standards.

Performance Characteristics

In the Audi R8, the BYH motor works alongside a rear-biased (70/30) quattro all-wheel-drive system. Power routes through either a standard 6-speed gated manual or an optional 6-speed R tronic automated manual transmission

• 0-100 km/h (0-60 mph): Approximately 4.6 seconds.
• Top Speed: 301 km/h (187 mph).

Common Maintenance & Strengths

Unlike older 4.2L Audi V8 variants that suffered from notorious plastic timing chain guide failures, the high-revving FSI architecture in the BYH features a significantly upgraded, reliable timing chain network. [

• Strength: Highly emotional exhaust note, razor-sharp throttle response, and robust internal construction.
• Key Maintenance Point: Because it is a direct-injection (FSI) engine, fuel does not wash over the intake valves. Over time, it is susceptible to carbon buildup on the intake valves, which requires periodic physical cleaning (walnut blasting) to restore lost power.

If you are tracking down a replacement or part, the BYH engine code is critical for sourcing exact OEM replacements, block setups, or specific rebuild gaskets.

Are you looking into the BYH engine for a repairs/replacement project

, considering a performance remap/tuning, or looking into the maintenance schedule for an R8?