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[auditodd at comcast.net]

AudiGuy said:
>Look at the new Ford 500. Looks like my 2000 A6 (in a lot of ways).
>I swear that I always can spot rip-offs of some audi design in other cars!!

In fact the Ford Five Hundred was designed by the same individual that designed the B5 VW Passat. So yes it looks similar to both Audi and VW vehicles.

About the Five Hundred.........
Let's see, Volvo S80 chassis, Volvo AWD system (for those cars so equipped), German CVT transmission, and body design by a German. Oh, and the AWD cars have the Nivomat rear suspension. About the only "Ford" item in the car is the 3.0 liter Duratec engine.

All for $24K off the lot.
Oh, and did I mention the huge brakes the car has. The AWD is 3815lbs dry and can still stop from 60 to 0 in just over 120 feet.

In case you haven't guessed.....I'm driving an '06 Five Hundred AWD.
I traded in my '93 90S for it over a year ago and have not regretted my decision.

I still "lurk" on the main Audifans list because I've been here now for 8 years and just can't seem to quit (I guess I'm addicted).

I still appreciate Audi/VW vehicles, but could not justify paying $18K more for a vehicle with similar capabilities (Audi A6 Quattro vs. Ford Five Hundred AWD).

What I consider similar capabilities:
-AWD (it's not Quattro, but it works!)
-ability to tow a trailer (rated at 2000lbs for the Ford)
-holds 5 adults comfortably (even I can ride in the back seat at 6'3")
+HUGE trunk. I can't believe how much I can fit in there
-beautiful German design, elegant and not "weird" (like BMW)
-dependable so far (13 months and 15K miles)
-easy oil change with a good sized oil filter
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Todd Young