Hello all. I currently drive a 2001 Audi A4 1.8t 5 speed manual. I have 137,000 miles on it and I'm ready to buy a newer version. Before this one I had a 1999 A4 2.8 5 speed manual. I'm looking for a 2007 or 2008 A4 and I'm not sure which engine I should go with. I'm definitely sticking with manual if I can, but I've heard different things from people about which engine is better. The local Audi dealer (salesman) said the 2.0t is the better engine, and he could be right since they don't offer the 3.2 anymore. However, the mechanic at the same exact Audi dealer told me the 3.2 was the way to go. Anyone have any input? It would be greatly appreciated!

 

there are soo many threads like this
2.0t if u like modding...3.2 is a little faster stock but 2.0t has much more potential...overall...2.0t

 

I've seen some yes, but I still can't make up my mind. I don't think I'd do much modding especially because I'm going to get it CPO. I guess I'm leaning towards the 3.2 which are harder to find and usually a little more.

 

I'm partial to the 2.0T. There are a lot more aftermarket options and the 3.2L isn't really that much more power. The 2.0T is a solid engine that has been used by VAG for a long time now. The 3.2L, well you said it yourself--they don't offer it anymore.

 

The 2.0t can be modded and run circles around the 3.2 with the right mods, it also weighs less than the 6, making the car less nose heavy. The 2.0t is also easier to find. The 3.2 uses a timing chain that does not have to be replaced like the 2.0t's expensive timing belt, and if I remember correctly, the 3.2 does not have the cam follower failure problem. Being a 6cyl engine, it is also naturally smoother running than a 4cyl engine. A 3.2 manual, might be really hard to find.

 

3.2 timing chain is a big plus but audi says u dont have to change the timing belt until 110k miles and chances are u wont have an 08 past 110k miles unless u plan to drive it to the ground. Cam follower problem is a drawback of the 2.0t but from what i understand its not hard to change, i still need to look into that, im really slacking on that cuz i got 50k miles and i should really see the condition. I havent found a DIY on the cam follower, well nor have i searched very hard either lol im sure its out there i just gotta get the motivation to do it.

 

I have an 06 2.0t Quattro with the 6-speed manual, and I love this car. I have no mods on it at all, but it drives beautifully. Currently at 39K miles. No problems with it since new. I think in 07/08 they tweaked the engine a bit and got a few more ponies, but otherwise still basically the same.

 

There is a step by step with pictures for the cam follower replacement. It is either on this forum, or Audiworld forum. I downloaded it to my computer a while back. Just had my 55,000 mile service done today, and it made a difference in the cars drivability.

 

Cam follower DIY. enjoy.... its a tough one.

http://freepdfhosting.com/8791e81dac.pdf

I just replaced mine at 130k and there were a bunch of dings in it and it was starting to develop some small surface dents.

 

It sounds like either way I'm going to be fine with both having different benefits. I think I'll just look for the best deal. I wish there was just a cut and dry answer, but that's def not the case.