Performance parts for the A4...

["Haley, Doug" <HaleyD@yankelovich.com>]

James Morgenstein wrote:
>I've been following the group for the last several weeks to prepare
>for the possibility of selling my current ride (95 5-speed Taurus SHO)
>to be replaced with an Audi A4 Quattro 5-speed).

>I've got some questions about performance, especially given the
>impending arrival of the A4Q 4-cyl turbo.

James, you might want to consider a used S4/S6 for about the same price. 
 Much closer to the interior space of the Taurus SHO (I know, I've owned two 
of them).  Substantially faster (Sports Car International abused a '92 S4 
from 0-60 in 5.97 sec!).  Proven drivetrain in use since the Ur Quattro.

Last year I sold my second SHO and bought a '92 S4 at a hell of a good price 
($23k with 45,000mi).  I haven't regretted it for a second.  Great car!. 
 I've spent some time in A4's too, and they're pretty nice.  The A4 is more 
compact.  Feels great once you're up to speed (you really don't lose much 
once you're over 30mph).  A4's steering feel is still somewhat numb, but 
much better feedback than my S4.  But frankly, it's small, and it just 
doesn't have the same rush (especially storming up a winding mountain road). 
 IMHO the S4 has better brakes, and more capable high-speed handling 
(without modification).  You can also substantially increase the performance 
of the S4.  Talk to Ned Pinto or JEFDO about the 286 horsepower they get 
from Ned Ritchie's IAstageIII chip!  Finally, the S4/S6 were top-of-the-line 
Audis and are optioned to the hilt.  Wouldn't you rather drive one of a 
manufacturer's very best cars rather than one built to a price point? (here 
come de flames...)

Note, if you're worried about not having a *NEW* car, used Audis are a great 
deal, especially since with Audi Advantage they tend to be maintained for 
the first 50,000 miles.

Just my $.02
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Doug Haley
"There is no fundamental difference between a sufficiently advanced 
technology and magic" (A.C.Clarke)
'92 S4 (mine)
'95 Saab Turbo Conv (hers)
'91 Sentra SE-R (theirs)
'61 Alfa Giulietta Spider Veloce (ours)
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