The B6 A4 (02-05) model that you have in your link has a much moreadvanced air bag system for both the seat belts and air bags. Plus the B6 has a higher crash rating than the B5. If you looking for saftey the B6 is higher, but the B5 with 12 air bag set up is still much more safe than almost all other cars made in the same era. Audi's in general lead in the pack in saftey, even over VOLVO which is known for making the 3 point seatbelt harness.

 

ok so the b5 is the 98-01 model?

 

Yep.

 

NO, B5 is not 98-01. B5 is '96-01....

 

Close enough for government work, i think he gets the idea.

 

alright cool, how about the 97s with the 2.8 5 spd how are they and what should i look for... i know its alot of questions im just tryin to do my homework and figure out exactly what i want to do, i really appreciate you guys and your help!!! your all awesome

 

bump

 

I'd go for the 3.0. It's a bulletproof motor, and it's quite fun to drive. I just picked up an '03 3.0 with a 6 speed, and I can't get out of it. (My wife thinks it's her car )
As far as safety goes, you'd be hard pressed to beat an Audi. We've got a video around here somewhere of a guy rolling an A4 cabrio on the autobahn and walking away from it. Not only that, but the IIHS has rated them top safety picks for the last several years. I'd seriously consider the 3.0 you saw for the money. Without seeing it personally, I'd say barring any major problems that is a fair price for the mileage on it.