Re: Quattros help parents sleep??

[elliott@yrl.co.uk]

Greg Spark wrote:
> I've got mixed feelings about youngsters having access to quattro.
> Having a structurally safe car such as an Audi is highly desirable, however
> I think that a teenager would use the quattro handling advantage to go
> faster rather than enjoy the safety envelope provided when driving well
> within the capabilities of the vehicle. I know I would have!

As someone who has been there, done that, got the T-shirt, let me
add my 2c.

I gave my first quattro, a 5 cyl 80, to my younger son as his
first car when I got my first UR-Q. (It was actually quite well worn,
but I needed an excuse to be able to afford my first UR-Q,
since I was becoming addicted)

Yes, he did stack it, driving far too quickly on a narrow country lane.
He was not hurt, the old geezer who panicked and drove into
his path was not hurt, and both cars were easily repaired.

He is now a superb driver, far better than me, and I never
lose a moment's sleep when he his out.
My wife, spoiled and wonderful thing that she is, now has a
six speed S2 estate, and my daughter has a 90 q 20v.
(Yep, seventy valves in four cars)

What we realised is, that you drive quattros
somewhere between what they are capable of and what
lesser cars are actually attempting around you.
This is an excellent blend of fun and responsibility.

You do sleep better, knowing the tribe are out and about
in competent tin.