re: Audi A4 Test Drive Report!

[rlee@netcom.com (Robert Lee)]

I also made a visit to my local dealer ( Commonwealth Audi/VW in SoCal )
and received quite different treatment. The salesman was polite and
patient and explained all the features of the A4 even when I told
up front that this was not an immediate purchase. 

He explained that they had received an initial shipment of 6 A4
and expected 10 more next week. They had already sold one
quattro, the buyer walked on the lot the first day the car
arrived, said "I want that one" and proceeded to pay cash!

I drove a red metallic 5 sp auto ( kind of a coral red :-| , darker
would be better ) with cloth seats and fwd. My first impressions
upon seeing the car is that it good looking but not really
striking, which could either mean that the styling is generic
or will keep looking fresh for many years. The standard 5 spoke wheels are
very good looking.

The A4 was driven head to head with the BMW 325 so I'll provide
a direct comparison.

Exterior: The A4 seems better put together and with a superior 
paint job but it's close.

Interior: A4 provides better interior materials, layout and ergonomics.
Sound system is superior but in non DIN a slot. A optional BOSE
stereo is available. The BMW seats are more comfortable and also
offer more support. A4 has more rear passenger space and a larger trunk
with hydraulic lifters instead of hinges protruding into the 
cargo area. The 3 spoke sport steering wheel is also an option.
Gripes: Power window and other misc controls are not lit.
Headlight controls are on a small stalk too close to the turn signal 
stalk.

Performance: Acceleration is adequate but not equal to the BMW. 
Steering, ride and handling are all above average but again
a notch below the BMW. During the test drive the transmission
shifted very smoothly, was easy to control in the corners and
braked powerfully ( The ABS performed as advertised ).

Verdict: Fully equipped, the A4's MSRP is <$32000 which gives
it a ~$5000 advantage over the BMW. At lower trim levels
it competes with the Camry and the like. If the Audi dealer
network can keep themselves from price gouging, the A4 will
go a long way to restoring Audi's lost market share. If not, Audi
will be relegated to being a niche player, selling Quattro
to the small segment of people who want Quattro and are willing
to pay a premium for them. I'll buy if they deal fairly.


Questions: 
Can anyone explain the Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)
feature which is on both FWD and Quattro cars? I got the impression
it was a new kind of front differential.

When are the new engine/transmission combos due to be released? I've
heard that Quattro with Auto is coming at the end of this
year and the new 5 valve engines will be here in '96.

Robert Lee
rlee@netcom.com