My base A4 rides pretty firm, my sister had a TT that also road very firm. The B7 body inherited a slightly modified B6 S4 suspension as it's base suspension. The ride difference between a base B6 and B7 is really noticable. But the firmer suspension does improve handling.

 

I recently added a ~2008 Saab 9-3 Aero 2.8t to the mix. I didn't really care for the Subaru.
I test drove a Aero yesterday and was really impressed. I loved the sound of the car. It also has more potential than the A4. A stage 1 tune puts it around 320hp and over 400ft-lbs.