putting a auto trans in a '91 20VTQA

[Brett Dikeman]

On Jan 25, 2006, at 11:46 AM, JordanVw at aol.com wrote:

> im thinking about getting a '91 20VTQA.. i found one cheap.    i  
> have no need
> for the quattro system. but i like the 5cyl turbo..  and i want a  
> wagon.
> unfortunately audi never made a 2wd automatic turbo type 44 wagon.
>
> at any rate, i was wondering how feasable it would to be to dump  
> the 5spd
> trans, remove the driveshaft and install an automatic from a same  
> year 200 2wd?

The automatic won't handle the 20v's torque/power, for starters.  The  
turbo 10v automatics were (if I recall) detuned compared to the 5- 
speeds.  Even then, they were far from pillars of reliability.

If you want a cheap 5-cylinder turbo FWD automatic, go buy an 850GLT  
or V70.  There is loads more cargo space, it's far safer, and  
probably more reliable to boot.  They're a dime a dozen versus type  
44's which are more common in wrecking yards than on the roads...so  
parts will always be easier to find, as will a mechanic.  Even a  
Volvo dealer will be able to perform competent service on one.   Good  
luck finding an Audi dealer that even knows where to start with CIS  
(or a 20v turbo for that matter.)

Not to mention, you won't be destroying one of the rarest Audi models  
imported into the states.

If I were in the market for a used wagon- it'd probably be a VW TDI  
wagon.  ~50 MPG, and chipped they are VERY quick.  Aside from some  
sort of trouble with MAF sensors (dunno if it's been solved or not),  
they're very reliable.  Automatics and manuals available, far as I know.

Brett