Re: A-4 :V-6 or 1.8 Turbo

[Christopher Hartman <hartmanc@oit.edu>]

You and your friend are correct about the Audi A4 1.8 T being the
sportiest of the three cars mentioned.  I have minimal experience with the
Audi's, but tons with the Saab, both 2.3 liter natural motors and 2.0
liter turbos.  The 2.3 natural motor in the 900 is rated at 150 hp.  The
car in 3-door trim weighs right at 3,000lbs and about 3050lbs in 5-door
trim.  The 900 S comes with 195/60-15 Michelin's on 15x6.0 inch rims while
the new 900 SE comes with 15x7.0 with the same tires.  The turbo SE models
come with 205/50-16 Michelin Pliots (MXM) on 6.5 inch wide rims and the
sport suspension which is 10mm lower witj 1mm larger anti-roll bar front
and rear.

While decent, the 900's handling is not the most inspiring, especially on
anything but smooth surfaces.  Front suspension is set at .5 degree
positive camber and the rear at 2.5 deg negative camber, which means
understeer.  We just upgraded a 900SE Turbo Convertible to Abbott Racing
sport springs and Koni struts.  Lowered about 30mm with much better roll,
dive, and squat resistance, without affecting ride too much.  Koni's set
at full soft in front and 1 turn in back produced less understeer, but it
still pushes under power and gets upset during transient moves with bumps.

The good point about the car are it's incredible interior size, and sturdy
construction.  The basic engine can often see 250 K miles plus but minor
things like alternator, cooling system etc... still need repair at normal
car intervals.  If you want great looks and can put up with less interior
room, get the Audi.  If you want wierd Swedish engineering and a very good
car in ways differing than the Audi, get the 900 S.  

I know this is mainly Saab info, but you asked...

Chris Hartman
Motor Sports Editor
Saab Journal