I'm looking to spend around $12-$14k on a 5-speed Avant. I've found a '02 1.8T with 85k on it or I could get an 01 S4 Avant with 99k on it for similar money. Which would be more reliable, if both cars have been taken care of and are in similar condition? I'm worried about turbo problems and large maintenance costs with the S4, plus I like the B6 body better. Just wondered if there were any major improvements from B5 to B6 in general?

 

This question is really a no brainer and even S4 owners will telly ou, maintenance on a B5 S4 gets really expensive. A lot of work that has to be done if/when things go wrong require pulling the motor, including when turbos go bad and they will go bad. The 1.8T doesn;t have that problem, the turbo lasts pretty long and is not hard ot replace. The main thing you have to look out for on a 1.8 is sludge, blowing coilpacks and timing belt/water pump. As long as the oil has been changed with the larger oil filter you are good. Also make sure the belt has been changed or change it as soon as you buy it, also not a hard job and keep at least one spare coilpack in your trunk.

 

^^^ What he said + dont know about s4, but a4's rear differentials sometimes leak-so check that before buying it

 

that's a lot of money for either. They've all came down a lot so look for better deals.

 

Yeah I'm thinking the B6 1.8T might be a little more reliable...I always have the Z06 if I want to go fast...

 

Just go with a B6 S4, the 4.2L doesn't have a timing belt, or any of the other problems A4's have. They just use 9 quarts of oil! The B5 S4 is a maintenance hog to say the least, very expensive to keep running.