looking to buy an audi A4 for a daily driver. question i have is when was the body style changes.

i was looking to get a 96 or maybe a 97

what years did the A4 body style change.

also as for a 96 any known issues with this year?

looking at t he 2.8 not the 1.8 just think with the older model and higher miles that the non turbo might be the better choice. not looking to mod it or anything like that.

 

Hi, welcome to audiforums. The body style changed beginning with the 2002 model year. If you have no plans on modding, then the 2.8 is a good choice. Keep in mind that the 96-97 years were 12 valve 172 hp engines. Beginning in 1998, the engine was replaced with a 190hp 30 valve engine. The 12v engine is a workhorse though, and is bullet proof.

There aren't many specific problems for different years. As with all A4's, the timing belt needs to be changed every 60-80k miles. If that breaks, it will cost thousands of dollars. Make sure it's been changed recently. Second is the control arm issues. They are known to become sloppy, and require changing (a costly endevour). I have a 97 2.8, and love it. Keep in mind that Audi's require moderate attention mechanically, and arent as reliable as a Honda.

 

i figure i don't drive like i used to so for a comuter car the audi would be ok. as for performance.. i drove a 2002 jeep wrangler for 2.5 years so anything feels fast and sporty to me after that.

i am going to go look at at 96 with 70k on this this weekend. I have read some about oil leaks so will see if i can see anything going on. not sure where i will be able to get it checked out on a saturday and its about 90 miles away so deffinatly wont be able to take it to my mechanic.

hope i don't make a mistake getting an audi.

oh btw my soon to be wife has a TT convert and she loves it. it has had some problems with the electronical system in the first 10k miles but seems like the engine is still super strong after 50k miles.

if anyone has any other info i should know before looking at a 96 please let me know.