Re: 87 5000CS Turbo Quattro (2nd try)

[Jim & Bev <jazman@accunet.net>]

> Hi, I'm new to this list and had a few questions... Firstly, I'm not a
> Quattro owner (yet!), but I found an 87 5000CS Turbo Quattro with about
> 120,000 KM (70,000 miles). It seems to be in fairly good shape, but I
> question the reliability of these vehicles. I realize that the list
> members will be slightly biased, but want I want to know is : can I use
> this vehicle as a daily driver without too much concern. Most "consumer"
> type sources say to distance yourself from Audi until the 92 model year.
> What do you owners say? It appears as though the timing belt hasn't been
> done yet, so that would be first on the list. Parts appear to be quite
> expensive, but I assume that there are good mail order discounters
> around.

I've owned a '87 5000CS TQ since it was new in May '87, it will soon be 10 years old!
97,000 miles.

There are common problems which are encountered, but can be fixed inexpensively if you
are handy with a screwdriver and wrench.  I have most but not all of my work down by
my dealer in St. Louis which I like very much.

Common problems:

window regulators
window switches
multi (combination switch) on steering column 
brake pressure accumulator
brake master cylinder
radiator can crack (plastic) around 80k miles (do a preventive maintenance and
  change it before it goes and potentially damages your engine)
Water pump
Steering Rack
hydraulic hoses

(This looks like a lot, but its not bad for 10 years)

Maintenance
90k mile timing belt


The joy of driving this car more than compensates for the maintenance requirements.
These cars are built solid, and are built to last, my car still drives like new.
They will never rust (unless there is body damage) as they are two-sided 100% galvanized
steel body panels.

The car has never stranded me.  

We have two Audis currently and had a '85 previously.  The '87 has been much more 
reliable that the '85, and our '93 has progressed to even fewer maintenance 
requirements.

Good luck in your negotiations!

jazman