So my current audi is a 97 b5 a4 2.8. I'm looking to get rid of it soon bc she just turned 200k(still runs like a top though) and the body is in rough shape. After owning a 00 Saab 9-3 I acquired the taste for boost, and not to mention I want a car that can keep up with my friends wrxs and gti. So, looking for a new car, I've narrowed my options to these: b5 s4 or a b5 2.8 and turbo it. Which would be the most practical choice for a daily that's fast and reliable? Money is a little limited too.

 

B5 S4 or modded B5 1.8T. Turboing a 2.8 is going to be costly and cause headaches. The S4 will keep up with your friends stock, and if well taken care of, won't be too costly. The 1.8T will be cheaper, but will take some money and effort to get to S4 speed. Plus, once you start modding you'll get addicted and always want more, creating an endless money pit. Most practical is the S4!

 

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2.8 compression can handle a small turbo at most but nothing more than 8psi before your rebuilding the bottom end.
Any amount of work on the s4 either requires two of everything or the whole motor needs to get pulled. They are not cheap cars but if your lucky and find a good one some kid didn't destroy your off to a good start.
The 1.8 needs such a large turbo to even compare to a stage 2 s4 - which will annihilate your friends wrx and gti no matter what circumstances - that the lag is going to be much less fun than a stage 2 s4 with stock perky little k03s.
I agree s4 is the only option here

 

Ahh, the age old 2.7T vs 1.8T debate... (notice, turbocharging or supercharging the 2.8 isn't an option)

things to consider-

the 1.8T can be a beast if stroked over to 2.0, maybe 2.1 with a BAT

The S4 has a 6 speed tranny, and subtle styling cues that are pretty damn sexy

the S will take 2 of everything (DV, turbos, intercoolers, etc) when it comes time to really start upgrading

I'm truly torn myself between the 2. I have a 1.8T, and I'm trying to decide if I want to upgrade it, or sell it and get a S4 when I finally have the money to do either...

I'm leaning more to the S4 myself, due to the 6 speed and body styling...

 

s4 - better suspension and brakes stock
better interior - real leather seats, recaros, cluster, ect...

in the long run the s4 wins everytime

 

Ah, yes, those sexy, sexy seats too...

I intentionally left out the suspension, brakes, etc, because most would upgrade on either model eventually, I would think.