Just sold my wifes BMW 5 series and I've been looking at a new car for her. We're looking for something with a bit more more and I really like the quattro wagons and wondered what you guys thought...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2002-...QQcmdZViewItem

I've read about some of the issues with this car but to be honest owning the BMW was the same thing. Things break, and things need replacing...that's life. Just wanted to know if this is a good deal or not? Anything to avoid and be really worried about?

Thanks in advance.

 

the deal is ok, not the best... but i don't know what the curren't market is like

i can tell you, that coming from the 5-series, you may find the 3.0 avant a little underpowered

my first suggestion if getting a used Audi is find one with CPO

 

3.0 is a good motor, but it is really hard to work on, I hear. If you don't mind paying the mechanic then go for it. I don't know about the local car cost, but it seems reasonable.

I have a 01 2.8 Avant. Was considering a 02 3.0, but stayed away from it due to the above mentioned concern. I really like my car, but I wish I bought an Allroad with 2.7T. But once again, if this is for your wife, (and I will be a sexist by saying this) and she prefers a reliable vehicle, non-turbo is probably the way to go.

FYI, I used to own a 528it. It had a sports package so felt like handled better, and was bit more exciting to drive, but once I drove my A6 in the snow and rain, I was sure glad that I was driving the Audi.

 

Yeah, we just sold her 540i. It wasn't an M5 but it still moved!

I was initially looking at the Allroad but because of the issues with the airbags on the suspension and the not so good mpg's I shy'd away from it.

I like the wagon style because of the room it offers. The 3rd row seat on that Avant is quite intersting though. It reminds me of our old 1970's Oldsmobile station wagon that had the same type rear seats that faced backwards...lol.

 

price is ok btu beware of the upcoming service that will be needed in about 20k ... that can get a little pricey

 

Compared to a 540i, 3.0 will be a boat. Based on what I have been noticing since owning a 2.8, and talking to many people with Audis, I really don't see a real world difference in gas mileage among 2.8, 3.0, and 2.7T. It is pretty much negligible. In many cases, 2.7T would get better mileage than naturally aspirated 6s.

As for the adjustable suspension, yes, it can and will be an issue, but at most, you are talking 1 repair through out the usable life of the car. If you are really concerned, you can replace it with performance shocks from 2bennett. It is actually cheaper than 1 air bag replacement.

Once again, I really love my 2.8, but there has been always a "what if?" in back of my head about the Allroad.