I have a '96 A4 2.8 SOHC with 155K mi on it. my lifters started ticking very loudly and then the cam broke off were it exits the valve cover. i am assuming that the entire motor is toast. seemed like the motor locked up and blew white smoke out the rear. so i have 2 questions. 1. how much would it cost to put a new motor in it (roughly)? 2. how much could i sell it for with a blown motor? the car is in great shape inside and out (except for the motor).

 

it might be easier on your wallet to part the 96 out and start looking for another car... but I wouldnt go there yet, you might just need a headjob... see a mechanic and then come back on here for the truth.