Advice: S4 vs 90-V6

["Remi Kwan" <kwanremi@nortel.ca>]

Dear quattro-addict support group,

OK.  I'm in serious need of a reality check.  This morning I saw a
'93 S4 (61000 kms) at the dealers.  While waiting for the work on my
car, of course, I had a test drive...   Here's where the problem starts.

Questions:

1.  What are common problems with this car?  

    Chatted with the service manager and he said he's seen some 
    steering rack problems and water pumps.

2.  How is the maintenance/reliability compared to my '94 90 Quattro
    with the 2.8L 12v V6 (what I'd trade)?
  
    How much (rough dollar amount) is normal for maintenance and the odd
    thing breaking?  $500 a year, $1k a year, $2k a year????  I'm
    starting to do the odd thing on my '88 90Q but not sure if I'd
    work on the S4.   

    Service manager said the 5 cylinders are easier to work on than 
    the 6, with fewer problems.  But I checked suspension, brake prices 
    and they were (as expected) more expensive.   

    One thing I found strange was the OEM price for front pads was like
    $200!  And more than the rotors...?  Bear in mind this *was* a dealer...     
3.  How is fuel mileage with the 20v turbos?  Seems like a stupid 
    question but I do a lot of highway miles.

4.  I've had my '94 for a bit over a month.  It seems real solid.  The
    only problem I've had is a failed cat (the dealer said the left
    side ones tend to have problems).    OTOH my '88 90Q (10v 5cyl) has 
    never had any engine/drivetrain problems...  

    Would I be crazy to pay a bit more and give up a good, solid car?
    I still need a semi-practical daily driver for my daily commute.
    What would I be getting into (besides having sooo much more fun).
    Can any S4/S6 owners comment?  Bob Myers are you there?  

Thanks guys and sorry for all the questions...

Remi

PS.  The car had gold badging (rings), carbon fibre trim in the interior,
10 disc changer, and black on white gauges.  Is this normal for a '93?