My girlfriend totaled her '99 Audi A4 1.8T Quattro a few months ago. She really loved her A4, but does not want all of the electrical problems that she was running into. She also had major problems with:
ABS Computer
Engine Computer
Air Bag Pressure and misc problems.

We are not planning on making any mods, pretty much a stock car. She liked it the way it was.... oh, and a manual transmission too...

What year and generation should we be looking for?
Which of the engines are fun to drive, but reliable too?

 

Well its depends on what you want to spend. $70k will get you a REAL nice Audi.

 

We do not want to spend more than $15,000.

 

You can get a nice 01' or earlier with about 60k. The 2.8 is realiable and the 1.8T is quick and takes mods quite well. (a chip for $500 will make a happy camper)

 

Is your g/f ok?
What does she look like?
Post pics so we can better answer your question...

Just kidding... If you/she isnt into mods then go for a same B5 model 96-01 and try a 2.8 out. Itll be quicker in stock form and wont have to worry about maintaining turbo plumbing etc. (Cant believe I just said that [&:])