[s-cars] S4 or A4, what would you do?

[djdawson2 at aol.com]

So this chat has been going back and forth (starting with "Worthy Projects"), hitting somewhat on this topic....
 
What would you choose, and why?  I currently have a nice little '98 1.8t A4... and just picked up a set of mint RS4 brakes (no more braking power problems).  It is a fun and great handling little car, but the power is a problem.
 
However, I'm still sitting on the fence.  Should I take the A4 and do a nice 2.0 project, or would it be a better bet to move to the S4 as a project?
 
I like the idea of the 1.8 simply because it is a lot like working on the I-5.  Everything can be done without removing the engine.  But I also like the idea of 2.7 liters of displacement... and the bottom end torque that goes with it.
 
Those with S4 experience... what mods and dollars would be involved to build a 420-450whp 2.7?  If anyone on this list has a car so equipped, what is it like to own, maintain, and drive?
 
I'm at the point where I'd like to choose one or the other.  I'd be looking at a 2000 or 2001 S4, or the 98 A4.
 
Dave
 
 
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