What to get next for a car?

[Kent McLean]

Rob wrote:
> So I am wondering the pros and cons of the newer platforms. I am aiming
> for something around 2004-2006.
> 
> A4 1.8T
> A4 2.7/8?
> A6

I think you can assume "reliability" will be common among them. Repairs won't be 
as easy (or cheap) as on your older A6. I think the problems you find will be 
familiar, e.g., flaky electrics (the little driver info LCD display in the 
center of the dash commonly looses lines).

I'd make my decision on size.  Going from the 200 into an A4, I found the seat 
just a tad smaller (I'm 5'8) with a shorter seat bottom with less thigh support. 
It took a long time to adjust it so it was comfortable. And the knee space 
between the door and console is a bit narrower; not an issue if you're small, 
but it may be if you're bigger or bulkier.

The 1.8Ts of the eary 00s had problems with sludge (too few oil changes, 
non-synthetic oil). If you find a clean one, and the A4 fits you, it shouldn't 
be a problem.

But since you liked your A6, I'd go for another one. I'd go with the 3.0 liter 
engine in the 2002 and later cars.

-- 
Kent McLean
1990 V8 w/5-speed and other mods
1991 200 TQA #3, with mods
1999 A4 Avant, V6 Tiptronic
gone: '91 200 TQA x2, '94 100 S Avant, '89 200 TQ "Bad Puppy"