Audi & the A4

[mrunnels@mitre.org (Mark Runnels)]

To all,

I have been in the market for a new car for over a year.  Recently, I test 
drove the Quatro A4 and had some likes and dislikes.

Likes: Attractive, comfortable seating position (telescoping sterring wheel)
	  strong brakes, respectable steering and shifting (though not the      
       best)

Dislikes: Not enough power (bummer), Cost (bummer)

What I'd like to know is how many people on the net have already purchased 
the A4 and what are their thoughts?  Further I'd like to get an unemotional 
answer to the question "how much is it really going to cost to maintain the 
car?"  This of course after the warranty expires.  Finally, I have heard 
nothing but bad things about Audi dealers; what is the story?

In sum, I liked the car enough to consider a purchase. However, I am not 
wealthy!  This car would be my bread & butter drive for a long time.  Given 
all the negative I have heard about Audi dealers and Audi reliability, my 
gut tells me a purchase would be a bad decision.  All feedback appreciated.

Mark R.