Hey guys, I may be looking to purchase an audi a4 in the very near future as i need a nice commuter car. Ive done a little bit of reasearch, but you can never have too much information. I had a few questions regarding a purchase.

I would be looking for a quattro model with a manual trans, and the newer the better. From what I have read the 99.5' models are a good pick...correct? Is there any sure sign to ID one of these cars? or just look for the build date?

I am no stranger to buying and selling vehicles, but are there any signs or problems to look out for? I am mechanically inclined and do all my own maint. and repairs so I have a little backround info here, just curious if there are any model/year specific problems.

Now just out of curiosity...what exactly was different on the s-line models? Anything other than the badge???

Thanks for any help, and if there is a link somewhere to all these questions id gladly accept that too!

-Nick

 

Use google and type in, "1999 A4 reliability" From what I recall, 2001, 02 and 03 model years for Audi had more reliability issues then the successive years. Do your homework via the internet. Also, if it will be your daily driver, get one without a turbo because that is just another item that will fail.

 

FAQ sticky post at the top of the forum...

 

Im not sure I have ever even seen an A4 non-turbo. If they were made, they arent very common. Im not worried about a turbo replacement or rebuild, the only thing i dislike about a turbo is the need for premium fuel.

 

The V6 NA models were made for a model year more than the turbo fours. They're very common, possibly more numerous than the 1.8T for a few years. And at a price difference of about 10 cents a gallon between 89 octane mid-grade and 93 octane premium, with the 16-gallon tank in an A4, if that $1.60 per tank is a factor, then don't buy any Audi at all.

 

So i read through the "newbie" section...very helpfull and alot of information.

Only one question left. What should I expect to see for fuel mileage numbers? Is the 1.8T any better than the 2.8 on fuel? Thanks

 

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Yeah but that's not being fair to you - Civics are mileage champs. I can get as high as 29mpg in my V6 on the highway and on two long-range steady-72-mph trips I saw 32mpg. On average there isn't much difference in mileage between them, not enough to make it a deciding factor in getting one or the other.

 

The ONLY major difference between the B5 A4s and S4 is the badge, the price, and, oh, the 2.7 liter twin turbo beast under the hood, better suspension, and someone correct me if I'm wrong, a 6 speed manual (might be wrong, may be the later years).

Unless you're looking for a newer one: In 2004, the S4 was given the 4.2 V8.

This link's for you

 

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