Alright, first off, I'm new to Audis. I was a DSM guy but realize that these cars are a pretty different animal. I have an Audi but am not really into it simply cuz it is Auto and the V6 and I long for forced induction and decent MPGs. Anyway here's my question that is essentially based entirely on the opinion of others on this forum. I am not planning on huge mods, just chipped, fmic, exhaust, boost gauge etc, not looking to rebuild, just little mods to keep me busy.

Basically which model should I get?
I know I want 1.8T, AWD, manual but B5 or B6. As far as consumer reports are concerned the B5s are not as reliable as the B6, any truth?
I like both body styles so that is not really the question. If I were to go with the B6, would you recommend a 5-speed or a 6-speed?
I am looking to spend 9k to 11.5K on the car and am just sort of looking for guidance as to which tranny would be more beneficial for everyday driving, not dumping the clutch at every light, just fun daily driving if I were to get the b6.
But as far as the mechanical reliability if properly maintained obviously is concerned would I be better off going with a B6 or would I be happier with a B5?

I know portions of this have probably been answered before, but I wasn't able to find the answer to the 5 VS 6-speed question.
Any input would be appreciated so thanks in advance.

 

i have a 2001 1.8TQM (B5) and im pretty happy with it. the timing belt job was a pain and cost a good amount but that goes with any of the A4s. i drive a TON and i am getting on average about 28MPG, pretty much all highway but up and down the mountains in WV. i think thats pretty decent for a AWD car. my mom has a 2006 A4 2.0TQ with the 6-speed manual, its fun to drive and the 6-speed is a blast. i like the fact that with the 6-speed your not turning so many rpms on the hwy. my 5-speed is (in my opinion) screaming on the hwy for no reason (~3K at 65mph) where as my moms is at about 2500rpms for the same speed. i know you said body style doesnt matter, but i chose the B5 because i like the body style better. if you do decide to go with the B6, go for the 6speed.

 

i agree with the noob haha the b5 does look better IMObut if you get a b6 deffinetely go with the6-speed. i dont think there is toomuch of a difference in reliability and both have lots of mods available. its really which ever body style you like better

 

I'd be very surprised if you could find a 1.8T B6 with a 6-speed for 11.5k or less since they only started offering them in 2004. Good luck though. Get the newest and lowest mileage car you can find for the money.

 

6spd FTW

 

i have a tip, just because i drive a lot in rush hour and do not want to change gears all the freakin time.... I test drove a b5, and a b6 5speed and 6speed and I would definetly get the 6speed I loved it........... Dont forget Quattro

 

i would like 6 speed, but i didn't let that stop me from going with a b5. no regrets. lighter, nimbler and a lot better looking. not to mention, for your price range, you can get a whole lot better deal on an b5. but if you must have 6 speed transmission.. forget the b5.

 

I drive everyday from Staten Island to Brooklyn for school with both the car and the bike. Only time it bothered me was takin my buddies automatic scion in traffic. I hate hitting the damn brakes every 2 seconds. That and you can stick it in 2nd and go from almost a stop 2 30mph,the entire time gettin better gas mileage then a tip and thats in nYC rush hour. Diffrent strokes for diffrent folks.

 

if you're buying a B5, and want a fun daily driver, the 1.8t is a great choice, which you've already set foot in that direction. However, i warn you, if you change your mind and decide to go with a V6, stay away from the early B5 models. It's a great motor, but i'm having a hard time with finding motor mods.