1990 coupe - to buy or not to buy?

[tom winter]

First, I'd like to thank all who responded. Here's what some of you had to
say (many of the replies were off-list):

Joel L: "I'm guessing this guy is getting out at $2k because of maintenance
issues.  That's cheap for a coupe.  I'd expect a good one to go for twice
that."

Yes. From my research I found that clean coupes tend to go for approximately
$5000.

Kent: "If you are tired of your 100 and want a coupe, and it looks no worse
than your 100, go for it. But don't expect it to be less trouble than your
100."

It would be impossible to have less trouble than the 100. I paid $500 for
the 100 three years ago and have only changed the oil, put on snow tires and
replaced the radiator. The car will need some front-end work soon, though.

John McMahon: "YES!!! Don't wait, buy today (for $2,000.00)!"

A vote for the coupe!

WYLIE BEAN: "$2K is a steal in my opinion if the car is rust free, stock,
and seems to be solid when you lay your eyes on it. be sure to test the
cruise, windows (listen for noises!) seat heaters, and look at all the
little lights in the switches, which are notorious for failure."

Another vote for the coupe, but hinting at the PITA window regulators (read
on).

Chris Semple: "That would be an emotional decision, more so than a logical
one. A 100q 5cyl is one of the most inexpensive cars, of that era, that Audi
produced. Hard to spend any "repair" money on the driveline, since they
never break. But take an electrical example: 40$ for a 100 p/w regulator(avg
$ anywhere), but 400$+ for a Coupe reg (nigh impossible to find used, and
dealer only new). Try the same comparison with taillamps, windshields, or
engine ecu's as well. Keep the 100q as a daily driver if you have the
option."

Ouch! That's a big difference in prices for repair. And you just know that
something will break. It's inevitable!

Michael.Stricker: "The 1990 is a lot more uncommon and, consequently, parts
are more expensive and rare. The most common problem are the window
regulators on both doors. The performance is dismal at best and the gas
mileage is not great. I've owned one thinking it would be a good compromise
for a wagon, but was I wrong. Personally, I wouldn't own another one."

This was the clincher. I also own a 5000cstq avant. I think that I'll hang
tough with the 100, put a bit more $$ into it and continue to use it as my
daily driver. The wagon has been modified quite a bit, and given the issue
with parts and the cost of said parts, my gut feeling is that the coupe will
eat up a lot of my time and money. Not the best choice for a daily driver to
compliment the wagon.

If anyone wants to check out the coupe, contact me off line and I'll provide
info. It's located in the Denver Front Range area. Thanks again for all your
help everyone! 

Tom