quattro digest, Vol 1 #3433 - 5KQ as daily driver

[l.leung at juno.com]

Even stock, the 5000CSQ and 200Q will more than keep up with a 16V A2 chass=
is car in a straight line. The VW's will launch (driver's perception, i.e. =
the "feel good" quotient) harder (it's not really by the clock) than the GL=
i, partially due to turbo lag, partially due to the lack of wheel spin to h=
elp the turbo spin up and the car to get on the cam, but otherwise, it's al=
l turbo Audi.

In the turns, however, the VW reigns supreme, better grip, less understeer =
(if properly set up) MUCH better transitions (i.e. slalom,
lane change). This can be brought closer through springs, shocks and anti-s=
way bars, but essentially you can't fight the nearly 1000 lbs of size and l=
uxury extra that the Audi carries.

Bear in mind, the same lead foot with the Audi as in the GLi will yield qui=
cker acceleration, but much poorer fuel economy. If you just want the same =
level of acceleration as you got before, a lighter foot will yield reasonab=
le (but still nowhere near as good) fuel economy in the big Audi.

If possible, shoot for a 200 rather than a 5000, as I said earlier, they're=
 more reliable. However, especially with older cars (as they're all 10 or m=
ore years old), condition should be the FIRST thing to consider, above all =
else.

Finally, consult Scott Mockry's website, www.sjmautotechnik.com and Chris M=
iller's sight (don't recall his web address, check the archives) for things=
 to look for when you check out a perspective purchase.

Good Luck!

LL - NY