Hi,

I am considering a used A6 4.2 (2000-2004) to use on my daily commute and I have a few questions:

1) what kind of MPG does this car get when driving mostly on the highway? I can never really trust the EPA figures.
2) is there a "best year"? That is, was there a year when there were significant improvements?
3) Related to the above, any years I should avoid?
4) What mechanical issues should I look for? What is expensive to fix/replace?
5) The 4.2 looks to be about 300lbs. heavier than the 2.7T, does that really have a great impact on the handling?
6) what options should I be on the lookout for?
7) how do you tell if the car has the "sport" option? Was this offered in all years?

Thank you,

Jon

sorry I acn only answer 1 of your questions but I have drivin both myself as I work for a Audi dealership and I have found that the 4.2 handles better than the 2.7 plus the styling is the nicest of them all other than the RS6 of course

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I have a 2000 A6 4.2 , I bought 3 month ago. I have 21 MPG with 35 mile commuting one way distance. I used 25 % in the city only. My spped on the highway 75 MPH only.

i have an 01 4.2. if your gonna get one make sure you get one that's audi certified 6years and 100k of everythang warranty,any and all repairs are costly. i live in the city and im only getting about 17.8 on average. if your gonna mod it in any way it's going to take a while for parts. having the 4.2 is an awesome experience but mod parts take on average 3 to 5 weeks. i put the supersprint exhaust on and 5.5 weeks to get it from italy, again worth it weight in gold. h&r springs unless there on the shelf 4 weeks, again worth the wait. the handeling of the 4.2 is good "progressive rated spring don't be scared to pust it, it will push back", depending on tire choice. the 255/40/17's are nice for what your going to be doing. changing them to 255/35/18 was my choice. i have the 18x8 wheels and 255/35/18. if i could do it over again i would buy the 02. a little bit nicer dash and trim package and standard sport transmission. to see if it has a true "sports package" check the front seats the will look "recaro style" high thigh and lower lumbar bolsters, dont buy it if there not there good luck and see you all at waterfest!!!