I have a '92 100S (non-quattro). While I have never had an actual problem mechanically with my auto tranny, a leak showed up recently. Am currently having a couple of seals replaced to correct the leak. As for the rust problem, my car does not have it in the area you mentioned. In such a localized area, I doubt it sound like a the car was in a wreck. Craig '92 100S (64k)