So the engine is out on my 1998 a4 2.8 quattro avant, manual.
Could i swap in a 1.8t ?
If so what parts would i need?

 

A quick search will likely produce many threads on this topic, but basically here's the deal: The 1.8T will bolt directly to the 2.8 manual trans. Some BAT 1.8T guys actually do this as an upgrade to utilize the different gear ratios of the 2.8 transmission. You would need motor mounts, a large chunk of the wiring harness, a new ECU, plenty of random odds and ends, and many hours of work. If you can source a (VERY) cheap 1.8t that doesn't need a lot of work, and plan on doing ALL of the work/fabrication yourself, its doable. Is it the most cost effective way of getting a new engine? Probably not. Easiest? Definitely not. But if you're attached to your car and want to do something different, go for it.

One other thing to keep in mind is resale. If you plan on selling the car at any point, unless its to another enthusiast, I wouldn't recommend trying this. When a dealer/carfax runs your VIN and it's supposed to be a 2.8, but is now a 1.8T, people are going to run for the hills.

 

Another thing to think about is that unless you plan on going BAT then the 2.8 trans does not have the best ratios for the 1.8t engine. When I swapped my tranny I came across a bunch of threads on this (audizine has a ton) and unless you have a BAT then the 2.8 trans mounted to a 1.8 engine is not ideal.

 

Alright, Thanks guys i was asking that question for my father.
next time ill teach him how to search.