...and thus commences my first post.

[Ti Kan]

Shan T King writes:
> [ 86 5Ktq ]
> 1. This car is a piece of junk. It is nothing more than a moneypit.
> 2. This car is the most awesome machine I have ever bought. It's very
> reliable, requires little of me. Just thinking of it makes me randy. 
> ...

The truth, like it often is, somewhere in between.
The car is wonderful to drive, great on highways, roomy, comfortable,
safe, has a lot of nifty gadgets, has timeless styling, etc.
It also has a list of quirks that, if unattended to, can become serious
a money pit.  If you are somewhat handy and peruse the archives of this
list, you will find reasonably economical ways to keep the car running
in top shape.  The engine, turbo, drivetrain, etc., are very strong,
and the body structure is not prone to rust.  However, the hydraulics
assist system (pump, hoses, accumulator "aka bomb", steering rack) may
need replacement if not already done.  The GM-sourced A/C programmer
and sundry related things can be problematic.  There are also other minor
things like window switches that needs periodical cleaning, wiring breaks
in the door jamb boot and trunk hinge, door handle problems, etc.

Whether you will get 5 more years of reliable service from it depends
greatly on its current condition.  I suggest taking the car to a mechanic
that knows these cars well to have it checked out before making your
decision.

-Ti
01 S4 2.7 biturbo quattro
84 5000S 2.1 turbo
80 4000 2.0
-- 
    ///  Ti Kan                Vorsprung durch Technik
   ///   AMB Research Laboratories, Sunnyvale, CA. USA
  ///    ti at amb.org
 //////  http://www.amb.org/ti/
///