I currently have a 00 323i Bmw. Looking to have a all around car with good pick up, and I guess the s4 is the upgrade esp since its 4 wheel drive. But I don't know if a audi can match a bmw in handling( no offense guys) . What do you guys think ? I look forward in hearing youre opinions. [8D]

 

stock for stock you are probably right....however all-wheel drive does help out with the handling. Add some aftermarket suspension in there though and things change of course. stock for stock B6/B7 S4's (2004+) are far better handling cars than the B5 S4's (2000-2002).

The power difference between any S4 and a 323 will be what really wins you over though.

 

The Audi's probably aren't nearly as nimble or agile, but they have rediculous amounts of grip. You'll laugh in joy at how fast you can take the turns.

 

323?? Not even in the same class as an S4


+1 for Audi S4


(even though I am more partial to the B5 S4)

 

I've been a BMW guy for the past 13years. This is the first time that I don't own a BMW.

I traded in my 525 for the S4, and just sold my M3 back in February.

The E46 is a great car, the feel & handling are top notch. Your car is just a little down on HP.

Going to a S4 will be a upgrade, however, it will NOT have the same feel as the BMW, stock VS stock it might be almost the same, the BMW having just
a little more feel & feedback. Now with power, the S4 (any body style) will be a big upgrade.

You got to think that the S4 is usually 400-600 lbs heaver then the BMW, I will say the S4 feels a little more stuck then the BMW.

As far as LUX stuff goes, they are on par, unless you get a New S4, that has a lot of little LUX stuff in it.

GO DRIVE ONE, and find out for your self.

 

true 2k S4, I myself used to own an E36 M3 So I totally understand what you mean about performance in the Hnadling dpt. but It's all AWD for me and haven't looked back since as you can tell .. [8D]

 

I own & drive both a E46 330 performance package and an B5 S4 Avant. I love them both. Sure the BMW is more nimble is certain (many) respects, has great road feel and it is supremely balanced - a joy to drive - with no real faults - and it is quite quick tyoo (5.6 0-60 & 14.4 1/4 etc) - however - hands down - no question - the S4 thrills so much more. Sure I'm modded to stage III - but even when just chipped - the turbo kick - the AWD grip & go - the thing is a beast. I love how I can kick it in at any time and just blow by nearly anyone on the road. In nearly ever case where I have the choice I will choose to drive the S4. Sure the extra power & go makes it - but the 330 is no slouch and its handles supremely. But - quite the opposite of many who claim the S4 is more pedestrian and boring handling wise - I find it thrilling and love to push it in all situations. Each car can handle - and each car has its own situtions where it shines over the other - but overall the S4 is greater thrills IMO. The extra power of an S4 over a 323 will be night & day - you will be grinning ear to ear - trust me...

 

How are the realiability issues? Have you guys experienced any major problems. I heard after 60k miles or so the timing belt will have to be changed. I made up my mind and im gonna go for the s4 so welcome me to the forum

Just need to find a necargo blue s4 00-01 under 21,000 or so in a 6 speed. Anybody know anybody selling theirs around the NY area ?

 

Reliability on the S4 is mixed...generally not too good - with some exceptions. 60-70K timing belt & related is $$$...and its Nogaro

 

oh man thats not what i wanted to hear.... realiability problems... what have you guys been through so far with your audis ?