I've wanted an Audi for a since 2000 when friend from work bought a new Yellow S4, but have never had the oprtunity to buy one. I finally have a chance to get one but dont know which one to buy. The body style I'm looking at is from 1996 to 2001,I originally wanted a 1.8T Quattro w/ 5 spd. I spoke to a used car dealer that sell alot of these cars and he tells me that he mostly gets 2.8's because the 1.8T's give alot of problems, the engines dont last very long and the turbos are a headache. They basically have to be babied since new and always use synthetic oil on them. So I was starting to consider a 2.8 w/ a 5 spd but there doesnt seem to be too many things out there to modify them so I also considered one with an auto tranny but I feel like I might get bored with an auto. I want something that has power and can be modified alittle bit. thats why I was considering the 1.8Tbecause I could bring up the boost.I would love an s4 but I cant afford one. So here the dilema, do I get a 1.8T or a 2.8? I know that no one can make my mind up for me but anyadvice would be very helpful. I want an Audi BAD! and I'm going to get one, just dont know which one? thanks

 

I would definatley get a 1.8T 5speed and QUATTRO! The dealer that told you that was an idiot. There are some people on here that have run on ONE turbo for more than 150k! Its how the previous owner treated the car and how well you take care of it. Remember, it is an audi sonot everything is gonna be cheap to repair but thats how all german cars are. There are a hell of a lot more aftermarket parts to buy for the 1.8T and it seems like an endless road, you can never stop modifying (unless your satisfied with what you have). I would highly recommend the 1.8T!!! Hell, ive had three of them now........

 

Definatly go 1.8t if you are planning to do any modifications. The possiblities are endless, you can go moderate or nutz, its up to you. The 2.8 has a lot of restrictions on engine modifications, your pretty much stuck to a supercharger and i've heard there is a lot that comes along with adding the super

 

Definitely get a 1.8t, quattro, manual.
Accept no substitutes or modifications from this formula.

And yeah, the car salesmen was trying to seem like he knew something that in reality he knows very little about. The reason he mostly sees 2.8's, is cause all the 1.8tqm owners keep their cars because they are too fun to get rid of!
I have a 97, and I will drive this car until it dies, or I hit the lottery, whichever comes first. The engine is bulletproof, and with some mods the car is incredibly well balanced and a blast to drive. Mines got a lot of aftermarket, but it handles great, brakes are amazing, and power is ample, a great all around car. Itrs my first german car, and I am sold.
Def. go for the turbo.

 

I might be putting a deposit on a 99.5 1.8T 5 spd tomorrow! Its Black with black leather and sport package but its got 124,000. the car looks new except for the dash, the digital display between the gauges arent very clear as if some of the bulbs are out? As far as exterior and interior the car looks like it has 50,000! Its from a dealer and he probably bought it at an auction so I dont know how it was treated, is there anything I should be looking for? the rear diff had a leak that he says he took care of. is this high for miles? getting it for $6,500, any opinions? Thanks for all your help, you guys are extremely helpful

 

mileage is fine - price seems fine since your going with a dealer - since Timeing belt is sugested around 60-70k your in the window for its second time to be replaced - might want to work that into the deal - say you'll pay for parts if they pay for labor or somthing - or get the $$ knocked off the price of the car.

 

listen to that dealer guy - I agree that you dont deserve a 1,8t.
if i were you i would check out a scion or neon srt4.

 

^WTF?

Yeah, if you want to mod and want a turbo, the 1.8t Quattro is for you. I too would work a deal with the dealer for the timing belt and see if you can get a warranty. If your cluster goes out like it seems to be by what you just said, it costs a lot to get it done since you have to do it at an Audi dealership. I got a quote for $1000. Yes, $700 for the part and $300 for labor. So maybe it's in your interest to work something out with the cluster and timing belt? Hope all goes well.

 

i know u wanted b5 body style but i think you should consider b6 body style with the ultra sport package...trust me its sweet

 

[sm=smiley32.gif]^^^^ agreed ... manual 1.8T w/ Q too