I'm about to buy an A4, but am not too sure about a few things. I'm not planning to do too much to the car, but I would def like more power.

Here are my questions:

• What year would you prefer? i'm looking at 03 and up right now...B6...or should I go ahead and get a B7?
• Should I just spend the money upfront and get a 2.0T which will cost more money?...or should I get a cheaper 1.8T and put that extra money to upgrading that instead? Which will have better power gains in the end?....the ones that I am looking at are almost a 5k difference.
• Is there a preference with 5 spd and 6 spd?

I think that is it for now. Please give me whatever feedback you guys have. I'm not trying to spend more then 15000sh....Thanks in advance

Joshua

 

'04 is when the A4 started having painted lowers i believe. B6 to B7 is a personal preference. looks are different and the engine is too (1.8t ---> 2.0T).

if i were you, i would get the B7 if it wasn't in bad condition. the car is made with more power so its more reliable rather than modding a 1.8t and putting more stress on the engine

 

My IMHO. b7 has a better/newer motor with mroe ponies out ot box. But if u plan on modding it (a lot) than there is no much available for b7 yet.
As for the body, it is up to u. The last year of the b6 was 2005, actually until <2005.5. Like any car, it all depends who was the previous owner. If the car was well taken care of, then you should have much less problems. Common problems with a high miles might be/// differential leaks/ timing belt change (around 65-75k), suspension (cv joints and etc) valve cover gasket and other stuff. u better find out who was the previous owner and ask for as many receipts as possible. And make sure synthetic oil was used every <5k miles or so. Good luck.

 

Like others have said, B6 vs. B7 is a matter of preference. If you want a B6 and you do decide to mod though, keep in mind that a manual tranny with the 1.8 engine is going to be much easier. I have an 05' USP. You'd have a hard time finding one in the 15K range though. When I was looking I had a list of must haves that included a 6MT and Quattro. Take the time to drive the different varients and then decide what you like best.
Good luck in your search.