Hello there everyone!

My Taurus SHO is reaching the end of its life with me and I have been looking at getting an A4. I have been looking at manual transmission A4s from 96-99. I have a few questions that are probably pretty easy to answer for seasoned veterans.

1) I hear all three of the engines (2.8L 12V, 1.8T, 2.8L 30v) offered in those years both have timing belts. Should they be changed before 100k?
2) Since I live in Iowa and travel to Minnesota often I have been looking at Quattro models, as well as FWD models. Do quattros have inherent problems from the added complication of 2 differentials? How often should the differential fluid be changed?
3) I have read that some 1.8Ts have issues with oil starvation. How common is this problem?
4) What sort of compression numbers are good for an Audi engine?
5) What are some common problems with the A4?
6) How long typically will a stock clutch last?

I may have more questions as I become more serious in the next few months on purchasing an A4. I just got done replacing the 5th, yes 5th starter in my SHO and I'm getting real sick of getting poor quality products that disable my car (my battery is fully charged, and my alternator is fine). Plus the car is really showing its age.

Thanks!

 

Wow I had a Taurus SHO, what a great car, extremely fast.
timing belts should be done before 100k miles, i had mine done on a a6 2.8 12v at 86K.
the 2.8 12v will run for many miles with proper maintenance. over 200k
As far as the quattro goes, why get an audi if you are gonna go fwd.

 

so true!

 

Just curious,
how long do a4 1.8 Quattros last? i mean with proper maintainance and everything?

 

Hahaha yeah, FWD is basically out of the question... I hate FWD... its really no fun

 

To be honest, ANY car will last a long, long time as long as it's maintained properly. German cars and Japanese cars are some of the longest lived on the road. Remember those 80s style mercedes benz cars? Yeah, still TONS of those on the road today.

 

Anyone have any guides on replacing the timing belt on the 2.8?

 

bump.....

 

guides?? do you mean how or when

 

Well I take it all Audi engines are an interference design, so assuming I get one that hasn't had the belt done that it is the first thing I do. I've replaced a few timing belts before and I don't think I will have too much trouble.

To sum up the procedure: replace the tensioner(s), idlers, water pump and the belt, am I correct?