I am looking at purchasing a 1996 audi a4 2.8 quattro. It has 175,000 miles on it and the seller is asking 2800. He says he is the second owner, and has all service records from 75,000 miles until now. The body is mint w/o rust. he also said the cat needs replacing along with a wheel bearing up front. My mechanic told me this would cost 1000 for the cat and 300 for the bearing.
My questions are is this a good deal?
can i just use a universal cat like the ones ecs tuning sells for 90.00
what else can be expected to need to be replaced,or should have been replaced by now?
also how much more life can i expect w/ regular oil changes every 2500 miles?

 

Welcome to the forums... Just remember that the 96 was still 12v 2.8.. if that is the limit of your budget go ahead and get it.. but if you plan on modding get a 1.8T.. becuase there is no mods for the 2.8 12v that show significant gains

 

my 96 just turned 178k. Engine/Trans are in excellent condition. Suspension is starting to take it's toll. But for a about 5-600, I could have a semi-decent suspension. the only thing realy wrong with mine is the rear control arm bushing squeeks, wear and tear on the body, and the HVAC controls don't like to light up.

 

That is encouraging! (I have a 1996 2.8Q with 65k miles on the clock.) Which transmission do you have? If automatic, what servicing have you had done on it?

 

It's a 5 speed.

The only thing I've done is routine maintence, brakes and a battery.

 

Cool! Runs like a Toyota, drives like an Audi.