90Q "skid plate" - important???

[gfl@cc.bellcore.com (grant f lenahan)]

Wise and worldly gentlemen of the Qlist:

I have a 1991 90q20v.

Yesterday, the aero/skid plate below my engine tore off
in the snow.  It's a goner.

My local, freindly audi dealer says that it makes little
real-world difference, but was added to fool the wind tunnel
for cd advertising claims.  Its also $200 ish (ouch).

I plan to ignore it and not replace it.  Any conflicting or
confirming advice, particularly from expereince?

Grant