Re: In the Market for an A4Q

[dan_masi@MENTORG.COM (Dan Masi)]

On Oct 1, 11:44am, Michael Lekas wrote:
> Subject: In the Market for an A4Q
> Hello all,
>
> This is my first posting to the Quattro list. My wife and I are
> considering an A4 Quattro as our next car (w/in the next six
> months, to replace our Acura Integra SE).

Congratulations!  I've had my A4Q for almost 4 months, and I
absolutely love it.

> First, does anyone know what the standard stereo's specifications
> are? I know it comes standard with six speakers, but what's the
> wattage?

I believe it's spec'ed at 4x20 watts.

> Also, what is the wattage of the Bose system upgrade?

I have the standard system (I personally find the Bose to be
heavily colored), but I *think* they call the Bose system
a "200 watt" system.

> Second, and more importantly, is handling. The reason we're
> considering an AWD is because our Integra has a habit of
> slipping out from under us in wet conditions. I've read the
> posts, and all are agreed that handling is vastly improved
> over a FWD with the Quattro system. Why then are the
> roadholding (sometimes referred to as lateral acceleration)
> specifications typically below the average car? Motor Trend
> online rates the A4Q at .80g, which is very low compared to
> other cars (including the Integra!).

I'm sure you'll get a better and more specific answer from
someone else.  I'll just say that "handling" is something that's
difficult to pin down, and is much more than just a static
measure of maximum lateral acceleration.  Someone here just
recently was talking about AWD being superior in throttle
transitions, as the sudden application (or deapplication)
of power is spread to 4 wheels, lessening the tendency
to break loose.  Another example is torque-steer... drive
even the non-quattro A4 next to the Integra, and apply
power during turns.  The A4's revolutionary new geometry
up front all but eliminates any torque-steer.

Gawd, I sound like a commercial.

> Would tire size improve this performance?

It's a bit of a tradeoff... wider tires, with stickier compound,
would improve the lateral-g numbers on dry pavement, but would
decrease performance in the slushy stuff.

> Are there any recommendations on a make and model of tire
> good for all-weather driving?

For all-season use, the Eagle RS-A that comes with the car
probably isn't *too* bad.  Dunlop D60-A2, Goodrich Comp/TA-HR4,
and the new Yoko S4-Z tires have all been cited as good,
solid all-season performers.  If you intend to go all-season
and drive in snow, I wouldn't go too much wider than what's
on there now.  If you're gonna change to snow tires, it
sounds like you can go up to 20mm wider (225's) on the car.

Dan Masi
'96 A4Q