[Bob D]

you forgot the biggest feature of the 500... you dont have to go to an 
audi dealer to get anything! Thats pretty much the #1 reason why Ill 
likely never own another audi. The worst dealer network ever.  No need 
to go into details, Im sure you guys know.

Bob

auditodd at comcast.net wrote:
> 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
> --
> ---- 
> ------ 
> Todd Young
> _______________________________________________
> quattro mailing list
> quattro at audifans.com
> http://www.audifans.com/mailman/listinfo/quattro
> ---
> Watch this space for ads :)
>