Hi, I'm new to the forum and am looking at buying a 96-02 A4. I've owned a 90 and an 80 Quattro in the past and can't wait to get back to driving an Audi. I'm not planning to do alot of mods, just want a great looking car that's fun to drive.

Couple of questions:
1. Should I go for a 1.8T or the 2.8. Again, I'm not planning to do major mods, but might consider a chip, or something else in the $100-200 range.

2. Any suggestions on years to look for or avoid?

3. Quattro or FWD? I loved the handling on my 80Q, but any idea how it affects gas milage. Snow isn't a huge issue in NC, but occasional.

Thanks for any suggestions.

 

I may be just a little bias , but I would say to get a B5. Quattro is a given, even if you don't need it for the snow. I don't think it really makes too much of a difference in gas mileage. If you want to chip something, go fora 1.8T, because chipping a 2.8 won't do a whole lot for you. 2.8's can be a little more reliable, but a well-cared for 1.8T definitely won't let you down.

 

Just realized that my questions have already been answered in the stickies. Thanks for the response though.

 

No problem. Did both the 90 and the 80 quattro have 2.8's in them??

 

Na, they both had the 2.3l 5cyl. Not particularly fast, but there was just something about them that made you want to drive, especially the 80Q which had a manual transmission. I've got a 95 Integra now, which is a great car in it's own ways, but it's an auto, and just doesn't have the same feel and personality as the Audi's.

 

If you aren't planning mods(Chip and DV for the 1.8 will cost around 5-700 dollars depending) I would go for the 2.8L. It's a smooth engine with good stock power. Make sure you get a 30v 2.8 and not the 12v.

 

Oh, my bad...I read your first question wrong. I for some reason included the word "Again" in the first sentence. Freakin' caffeine, it's screwin' up my mind!!