Hi all, I am a new guy to this group. I am seriously considering an A6 Audi preferably between 2001 through 2004.
My question to the Audi gurus is: while looking at one of these cars, what should I look for? Also, what are the pros and cons of the 3.0 engine and the 2.7 turbo?
I am pretty handy with cars, however this would be my first Audi, as I am switching over from BMWs after decades.
Thank you all,

 

Well I haven't been with audi's for that long but I say 2.7t. I heard that the 3.0 can't make much power without a lot of $$$$. I just got a 2001 audi a6 2.7t six speed and I love it. I would say first off look at the coolant and make sure its pink and not some other color. Then check the norm like brakes and how it drives. Any service records would help, to let you know when the timing belt was done. I didn't have any records so mines in shop now, to find out it was done about 35k miles ago.

 

Look for all the usual. I always recommend you take it to an independent Audi shop and have them give it a once over. Even if it costs you $100 it is probably worth it in the long run. I agree with audinoob88 about the coolant. Maintenance records are a plus. Last timing belt/accessories change. With the years you are looking at the timing belt and accessories should have been done at least once.

2.7T vs 2.8 vs 3.0: The 3.0 is very reliable but it is the hardest mostest painest in the hindparts to work on. The 2.7T and 2.8 are only very hard to work on. The 2.8 will not give you much power to work with. the A6 is a beastly heavy car. the 2.7T is the most moddable. you can really up the power with minor modifications (read the sticky). with major money/modifications you can turn it into an absolute beast. The biggest drawback to the 2.7T is that the turbos are on the back of the engine and absolutely buried. Any turbo problems at all will require the engine to be pulled to work on/change them. The engines on these cars do NOT come out the top, they come out the front, so that should give you an idea of what a pain that might be. If the turbos have been taken care of (read the sticky) they can last quite a long time/lots of miles. Non-synthetic or neglected oil changes will shorten their life span (read the sticky). Other than that stay away from the pre 2002 tip-tronic transmission and you should be fine (read the sticky)

good luck

 

Great information to know. Appreciate all of your help.
Thank you,

 

Switching form a BMW? Join the club.

02A6Beau pretty much covered the differences. As for the maintenance stuff, make sure the timing belt and the related goodies have been done. You are looking at a +$1500 job there. Also make sure that the cam seals and the cam chain tensioner gaskets are replaced as a part of the timing belt job. Also check and make sure your emission related components are in good shape. Take it to a shop and have them check for the readiness code. That tells you that your o2 sensors and the catalytic converters are working properly at least.

I have to admit that it was a bit of a difference in driving dynamics coming from a 528 with a sports package to my A6. But I have to admit that my A6 is a lot more versatile than the bimmer. No comparison in the snow for sure.

 

Save your money and buy a certified pre-owned model. These cars just like your BMW's will get expensive and why not let Audi pay for the repairs instead of you? Plus if you are looking at a 2004 and later model you are looking at a body style that is 3 models old. Who in their right mind invests that kind of money in such an old car?