Re[2]: Audi News

[J_T_Douglas%mwcorp1@MWMGATE1.mitre.org]

>I've owned both.  I won't go near another VW, but I LOVE my Audi.

Funny, my VWs have been FAR more reliable than my Audis.  But as I get older 
(sigh) I appreciate the comfort of the Audi more and more.  After a 6 hour 
interstate drive, it leaves me fresh.  A VW would leave me tired.

>I was under the impression that the design, engineering, and manufacturing
>were completely separate.  Is this not the case?  Can somebody clear up the
>Audi/VW relationship for me?

Yes and no. VW bought Audi for their higher-end market segment and their water 
cooled, front wheel drive technology.  They do share a great deal, including 
marketing, dealerships outside of the U.S., parts numbering and logistics, etc.  
Some models, like the Quantum and the 4000 were virtually the same 
mechanically.  It was therefore surprising that both got the go ahead to build 
separate V-6s!

Maybe someone can clear this up -- I've heard from folks who should know that 
Synchro and Quattro are different systems.  Synchro uses a patented, high tech 
torque "sensing" fluid while Quattro is a less exotic system. Is this true?

Jason