1.8T vs v6..which is more reliable, more powerful and lasts longer

[Victor Norman]

I have a 1996 A4 2.8v6 5-speed with 165000 miles. It leaks no oil, runs
fine and has plenty of power throughout the rev range. I've had my share
of problems - control arms, sunroof motor and (now that summer's
arrived) it's sprung an A/C leak but it's still a blast to drive.
A couple of months ago I bought a 1998 A4 1.8T with no oil pressure.
Cause was a cam chain tensioner that was totally shot - not what you
would expect from a low-mileage car. Replaced the tensioner (and the
timing belt while I was in there) and the engine appears to be no worse
for the experience - oil pressure back up to 85lbs and compression good
on all cylinders. The car has 80000 miles and is an automatic. When I
drove it I was amazed at how bad the acceleration was - particularly
from a standing start. It's downright pitiful compared to my other A4
which has twice the mileage. I figured that maybe I'd goofed when
setting the valve timing so I test-drove a similar car at a local
dealer's - it was just as bad..
Anyone with an auto 1.8T care to comment? Is the 5-speed model
noticeably different?