Is it true that in the B5 A4s, the 1.8Ts had leatherette, whereas the V6s had real leather?

I'm referring to the leatherette being that faux, synthetic leather...

I'm asking because I'm in the market for a 99-01 A4 and curious about the leather- since the leatherette doesn't show signs of wear/tear nearly as much as real leather...

Could someone with the 1.8T have upgraded to real leather when buying new form the factory?

 

thats right, the 1.8T has "leatherette" compared to the V6 wich has geniune leather.
and NO, i dont think leather was an option for 1.8T's

 

FALSE

My 2.8 has Leatherette. Of course, I just call it vinyl.

 

For Reelz? haha

I just thought my 99.5 1.8t Avant was leather. Smells like leather. I do have a crack in the leather (or faux leather) on the left bottom bolster on the driver seat, everything else looks real nice.

 

If someone didn't do an interior swap, I don't believe that. Post a pic!

 

I have real leather. It makes the girlies squeal.

 

Thanks for confirming. As much as I want a '01 2.8 (for the added reliability and standard HP), I've noticed that Audi's leather just doesn't age well- which is pushing me to get a 1.8T instead since leatherette doesn't wear nearly as fast - since I'll be buying it used, the worn out leather will be a tell-tale sign of the used car. So 1.8T it is.

So next question - to those with a B5 1.8T with leatherette, how have your seats held up over time? We have a 94 C220 in the family with leatherette, and its still looks showroom-new.

 

Good choice. The leatherte seemingly doesnt age at all unless you get a tear. Most people would never know it's not real leather either. It's a very convincing synthetic. Make sure to budget in the cost of a chip or else you might be kicking yourself if you've already driven a 2.8. A stock 1.8T is a dog.

 

I know that the numbers are significant, but is there a dramatic difference between stock and the Stage 1 chip?

 

ill be chipped shortly but just had a conversation with the guy who runs Fastaddiction in vermont, and he does all the chipping, he can do any chip that your car can work with, and just like everyone else who is chipped he said its a whole different car. i mean 50hp and nearly 90ft-lbs torque is alot of hooch to add to any car. so you will more than feel the difference. makes your car way more fun to drive.

the leatherette in my 1.8t has held up amazing.. its a 99, and has no tears anywhere.. i think it looks way better than the real leather in my opinion cause its kinda like sport leather.. doesnt crack or get those wear lines in it.. its still nice and smooth and looks great..