Right, I am new to the Audi scene and am looking to purchase either the A3 or the A4 avant S4 bi-turbo. I m really looking to ask what the running costs are in one, and what problems can or could arise in running these cars.

I have heard that they are reliable, but it doesnt beat coming onto a forum and getting the actual true low down. Any help or advice would be appreciated, especially what to look out for when buying one. eg

where would they start to rust?
Wheres the Vin tag situated?
Why should I choose the A4 over the A3?

Thanks alll

 

they are reliable cars.. as long as they are taken care of by previous owner, and you

not sure on prices of a3's
a b5 a4 right around 10 grand now for a clean well maintained semi-low mileage example
(expect to pay a little more for the avant)
a b6 a4 , and b5 s4 are around the same price rance at about 15-20 grand (again a little more for avants)

 

why a4 over a3? from the two given, i'm betting awd is a big deal. the a3 quattro is like the tt or what you find on a vw. their all fwd w/awd added. from what i read, the a3 actually goes to full fwd mode for cruising. it can never shift more than 50% of its power to the rear. an a4 is all the time awd. thats why its heavier. it can shift upto 90% of power to any 1 tire. world of difference in that regard. now, my bro has an 07 a3 fwd. i bought an 00 a4 awd. basically same size. his is newer, nicer, faster outta box, higher mpg. but, i have the awd i wanted, and after a couple mods, i'm faster. also, i paid 1/3 of what he did. hope that helps.