Re: A4 vs Passat?

[Jim Simone <jmsimone@ix.netcom.com>]

Bob,

See comments below.

Virtual Bob wrote:

> I got a cousin that just graduated. Now, he needs to ditch his Accord and
> buy a new wagon. Originally, he had the Camry on the list but I was able
> to convince him that A4 is another nice choice. While looking at dealers
> lot, he also added the Passat in the list of choices.
>
> Now, what exactly are the difference between Passat and the A4? Is leather
> available in Passat?

Yes

> How about the engine? Does the Passat use the VR6 or
> Audi's V6?

Currently, the 1.8T is more widely available, although the 2.8L V6 is out
there. It is the same 30-valve engine used in the Audi and will be available
in GLS or GLX trim.

> I try to check out the exact differences between the two but
> the on-line buyers guides are either too general or don't even got Passat
> wagon in the selections.

There will be a GLX version, which will include leather, roof, etc. I think
the only option will be a CD changer.

> The difference of about $2000 (or more) is quite a lot of difference.
> What does A4 got (besides richer looking plastic, etc.) that VW doesn't?
> Does Passat come in Synchro? (Option or otherwise.)

Apparently, AWD will be an available option, but, at first, only on the Passat
GLX wagon. It will be called Synchro but it is the same "Quattro" system used
in the Audi cars.

> What he definitely wants -- V6 and leather (yeah, more of image then
> anything else...).

Sometimes you can get both the image and performance...

Jim
'98 A4 1.8T qms Pearl/Opal

PS: The A4.org forum has a lot of discussion of the VW Passat. Go to
http://www.a4.org/ and follow the link to the forum. You can then search the
archives using keywords like Passat, Synchro, etc.