[V8] Re: V8 quattro?

[Kent McLean]

Evan Parker wrote:
 > There's a V8 quattro in resonalble shape in my town for like $1500.
 > I need a car for work that is good in the snow, decent on gas, and
 > easy to fix for someone of reasonable automotive knowledge.
 >
 > Is this car a reasonable prospect?

No.

Good in the snow -- most definitely.

Decent on gas -- about 20 mpg if you don't push it (assuming
it's a 1990 at that price). Lot's less if you enjoy the V8.

Easy to fix -- by whom?  The V8 is a complex car with lots of
things that can go wrong.  On a 15 year old car, they will.
This V8 list is helpful when you car dies suddenly for no
reason. They'll tell you the reason.  Little things, like
$150 sensors that are NLA.

Concern #1 is the automatic transmission. Make sure it works
smoothly in all gears before you buy.

If you buy it, concern #2 should be the timing belt. That will
set you back about $800 in parts and 8-12 hours of work. Or let
a pro do it for about $1500-1800 -- which is the price of the
car. :)
http://www.audifans.com/twiki/bin/view/Audi/TimingBeltV8

On the other hand, you will fall in love and want for nothing
else (except maybe a 4.2L V8).

For Fun, I cc'd the V8 list.  I'm sure they'll chime in.

--
Kent McLean
'94 100 S Avant, "Moody"
'89 200 TQ, "Bad Puppy" up in smoke