[s-cars] Reliability of mid 90's 90CS Quattros

[Wayne Dohnal]

>Just wondering what experiences people have had with the mid 90's (2.8L)
>versions of the 90 CS Quattros.  I am looking for a car for my nephew and I
>would like it to be pretty reliable but not be like driving your living
room
>sofa.  Any experiences with these cars (good or bad)?  Thanks!
>--Calvin

I haven't owned one but almost purchased one a few years ago and did a bunch
of research and asking around.  I test drove this car (a 95) before doing
any research and liked it a lot.  I ran well, felt solid, and was
comfortable.  Other than the normal Audi things, the only major reliability
issue I came up with is with the engine.  There are problems with a leaky
valley pan gasket and head gaskets, which can lead to other failures.  I
also concluded that the timing belt job is significantly more difficult than
on the I5 engine.  I was ready to buy the car after a pre-purchase
inspection but the inspection uncovered oil leaking from a head gasket and
the seller wasn't willing to take my lowered offer.

After that episode I learned more about the S-cars and learned about all of
the toys that were left off the 90 CS, like power passenger seat, glass
sunroof, various gauges, more comfortable seats,  and whatever else I can't
remember offhand.  In hindsight I'm really glad the deal fell through and I
ended up with the S-car.  I was concerned about reliability problems with
the turbo but that seems to be a non-issue.

My feeling is that if I were going for a 90 I'd look for an early-90s model
with the I5.  Too bad the horrible small trunk is part of that package.  I'm
sure you will hear from people who have owned a 90 to get more detailed
info.

Wayne Dohnal
1994 S4