Looking for a '98~'00 A4 Avant. Comments on problerm areas appreciated

[Shaun D Mullen]

Jim:

I have put a combined 230K on a 98.5 Avant with V6 and 5-speed and a 00 
Avant with V6 and Tiptronic.  I had no problems with either and have 
heard of no significant problems from others regarding either model year.

I prefer -- make that love -- the V-6, having put a total of nearly 400K 
on various interations of that engine, both 24 and 30 valve. I also 
prefer the taller gearing.  Other drivers will argue quite vociferously 
that they prefer the 1.8T, but except for the smallish price advantage, 
I find the V-6 superior in all respects.

My 00 V6 was my first Audi with Tip.  I did not miss the 5-speed, except 
on extremely rare occasions in extremely bad mountain weather when I 
"felt" more connected to the car and road with the 5-speed.  But I 
believe that is largely illusory and have come to love the Tip in 
automatic mode.

Good luck in your search.

Shaun Mullen
Newark, DE


MXHOWES at aol.com wrote:
> It's time to upgrade and I have narrowed it down to a A4 Avant, late 90's 
> seems to be in my price range. 75~100K miles.
> A few questions that some of you may be able to answer for me.
> 1. What are the weak points of this model?
> 2. There has already been a long discussion on the V-6 vs. I-4T and I could 
> live with either one. (I do like the taller gears that come with the V-6)
> 3. Tiptronic vs. 5 speed. This is a BIG Question. I have never owned an Audi 
> with a auto. I will be driving this car for another 100,000 miles, will the 
> auto last?
> 
> All comments, suggestions and recommendations will be appreciated
> 
> Thanks, Jim
> '85 4KSQ 145k
> '88 80Q 190k
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