Choices, choices

[Jeff Teolis <jeff@teolis.com>]

OK, I've been lurking for awhile now, so I've decided to "pop the question"
that I hoped that I'd get answered without my asking it.  This question has
been bantered about to some degree but not to my satisfaction, so here goes:

I have owned many VW's but never an Audi, I have however lusted in my heart
for one.  I currently am driving a Jetta with 192,000 miles--so its time to
buy a new car this fall.  I don't want to spend $30,000 USD, in fact I want
to be as close to $25,000 as I can get.  So, here's my delima, I can get an
adequately equiped A4 1.8 Q w/5sp for a sticker price of $28,260, and I
estimate I can get a Passat GLS Syncro with 2.8 tiptronic, and otherwise
similarly equiped for the same or probably somewhat lower sticker price.
Obviously actual purchase prices will be lower, and there will probably be
more price negotiation room w/the Audi, as the Passat Syncro will be in
short supply at first. Its just easier to compare sticker prices and go
from there.

Now obviously, the A4 Quattro would be my choice, it will be sportier, more
luxurious, I've always wanted one, and etc; but it seems to me that the
6cyl tip passat syncro is more car for the money--more power, larger,
adequate handling, and etc. Also as i understand it, the Syncro Passat is
equiped with the Audi rear suspension. And, of course I'm estimating the
price of the vw syncro because the prices aren't released as yet, but the
Syncro option will cost the same as Quattro $1,600 USD.

Also, is it true that the A4 Avant will be available as a 1.8 for 99?  That
would bring the A4 Avant 1.8 in line with the Passat wagon price-wize.  I
wouldn't be asking these questions if I could get the Passat syncro with
5sp and 1.8 or TDI I'd buy it,  I'd rather have 5 sp and I would like the
1.8 so please advise me.

Thanks!  

Jeff Teolis
MAILTO:jeff@teolis.com