I'm new to the Audi world but already love it! I found this while I was cruzing the local adds...

http://denver.craigslist.org/car/195060215.html

seems like a pretty good deal for $3000. I could probably get it for even cheaper considering what's wrong with it and everything. I went to look at the car and it's beautiful. The interior is immaculate and the body is in excellent shape. The only thing that worries me is the low compression in the first cylinder.

couple questions

1) I've heard the 1.8L turbo engines were something to stay away from because Audi/Volkswagen recalled a bunch. I'm not entirely sure about this but my very trusted mechanic friend said I should stay away from the 1.8 and look for a 2.8
2) Is it a hard job to replace the cylinder head/gaskets if thats the problem of the low compression? I'm mechanically inclined, have most of the tools, and can figure out anything if I have a set of directions or a manual.

what do you guys think? any input?

 

Keep looking.

 

honestly I would stay away. you may be opening a can of worms. save a few K more and get something that is in better shape because if you cant figure it out odds are you will be bringing it to audi and they charge extra for KY.

there's a reason this guy is taking a loss on the car. for a little more $ you can get something that will work.

 

This car was obviously not taken care of well if they waited till 130k to replace the timing belt (especially on a 98).

Don't buy this one.

 

Run away fast very fast

 

+1 A couple more grand and you can get a good deal on something waaay better.

 

I bought my 98' 2.8LQ for 7k under 1 year ago, it had 110k on it, but it has run me less than $500 in maintenance (including oil changes, etc) since I've had it.

Finding a good Audi is like picking through apples at a supermarket. Take your time and find the right one, or you'll be biting into a bruised apple when you get home.

Ick, bruised apples. Ick, a broken down Audi.

 

I talked to the guy again and he said he ordered a new set of lifters that he's going to out in before he sells it. There was a slight ticking sound when the engine's started so thats why he ordered new lifters. hey at least it's a set of new lifters

 

just dont buy it.

 

let's say I can get it for $2000. another $1000 for a new head, misc new parts, etc and I can do all the work. If in fact a new head fixes the problem then it's a perfectly new audi for $3000