I'm looking to buy a early 2000's A6 for my niece and wanted to see what users experiences were between these 2 choices for reliability first, but also fun as a second factor.

My gut tells me a V8 is tougher and will last longer than the bi-turbo system, but that's my old school thinking. Also I hear the 2.7T is about as fast as the 4.2 since it has minimal turbo lag and the 4.2 has more weight and has been detuned a bit, at least that's what I'm reading.

But most importantly from a service point of view, which engine/model is the smarter buy? Also do you guys think 9k for a 2000 4.2 with 76k is a decent price?

4.2 more reliable
2.7T more fast

I wouldn't pay $9K for a 2000 anything. Look for a 2.7T in the 4-5K range and use the rest for maintenance/repairs/upgrades.

Yea that sounds like a lot of $$ for that car
got mine with less than 100k (2000 A6 2.7T)
and only paid $3000
but I'll rather have d 4.2 tho

Stock they are reputed to be within .1 second of each other, (6 seconds to 60) but at that age, depends on wear and tear. The 2.7 has mod potential that can really beef it up, the 4.2 has a look unmatched by any other audi in the last 10 years.
4.2 has nice low end and particularly higher end torque and typically came with better options, given it's target audience. All depends on what you want. 4.2 has been plenty of power for me and always gets a look. for what it's worth. Turbos can be a replacement issue later but many can maintain them without issue. GO with what you really like.

Do you not like your niece? You are about to saddle her with a heavy burden of maintenance and repairs. Just because you like the cars doesn't mean that she can afford it. Do her a favor and buy her something a bit less expensive to own.

Bob

So this Audi will become a repair nightmare? Perusing these forums I'm starting to realize Audi may not be a good company after all. I've already learned my lesson with Mercedes. Might have to go back to BMW as they are the only ones with a good rep left.

It books out retail for 10k plus. I've been looking and there is no way I can f ind a 2.7t in the 4-5k range with 75k miles, I've been looking every day locally, and on the internet. I may try the auction, but lately these little snow cars have been selling like hotcakes at the auction and you can't even get much of a deal there, and no dealers warranty.

By the way I test drove the car the other day, pretty flawless overall, very tight.

How old is she?

Decent paying job? Is she a tuner-groupie? If no to both of those I'd say your best bet is a 2.8/3.0 model.

I wouldn't minimize your options to just the A6 if she is younger, without family (kids). A low mileage A4 (B6) 3.0 would be the best overall bang for the buck.

If you must have an A6 and it has to be either the 2.7t or 4.2, you just need to know if she wants tuneability or dependability. Both great engines.

v/r,
Paul