Re: s4 s6

["Andrew Seward" <reming@idir.net>]

Mark Switek wrote Re: s4 s6:

>Now here is where I would like your input. Even before I bought the 200 I
was thinking of acquiring an s4 s6 for my commute. I've >never driven either
one and will have to travel to find one. So here is my list of questions.
>1. Can these cars be daily drivers?
>2. Any preferences of s4 to s6 models?
>3. Any models or model years to stay away from?
>4. What to look for for potential concerns when shopping?
>5. Any other questions that I should be asking?
----------
Hi Mark,

I've been lucky enough to own both a M3 and S4, here's a few thoughts for
what they're worth.

First of all, a S4/6 is not an M3, by which I mean they are quite different
(in my mind).  The S4 feels larger/less "tight", the steering is more
assisted (less direct), you sit higher in the seat, and the engine power
delivery curves are quite different.  However, the S4 has superior seats
(more bolster and comfort IMO), definitely much more rear seating room, gets
better gas mileage, and there's more metal around you in a major accident.
Also, a M3 in the snow is an ugly thing, made only marginally better with
Pirelli P210 winter tires, whereas a S4 is a revelation in snow and on ice.

Bottom line:  S4 is better family car, possibly safer and fun to drive.  M3
is a hoot to drive in the dry, less room and thirstier.

My wife drives our S4 every day.  We've had no troubles with it, changed the
timing belt/H2O pump at 60K, etc. It just goes like a train.

Compared to a standard Audi 200, particularly with a slushbox, the S4 will
feel exceptionally different and tauter.  However, to bring it to M3
handling levels will require a switch to lowered springs and sportier
shocks.

The differences between S4s and S6s are very minor.  The S6 is essentially
just a re-named continuation of the S4; same engine, slightly different
differential locking system, better-looking steering wheel, etc.  It's more
an issue of mileage and cost.  Most of these cars were purchased by
enthusiasts and have been well maintained - they were very expensive when
brand new so they were rarely purchased by folks lacking the means to
properly care for them.

When shopping, just size up the seller and their knowledge of the car.  Do
they have good service records?  If its a 1992 or 93 car, was the
transmission rebuilt (some of the '92/'93s had tranny bearing problems)?  If
you like the wood interior, avoid '93 S4s.  If you like the understated,
sportier look of carbon fiber interior trim (as I do), buy the '93 S4, it
was available only in that year.  The '92s have a steel sunroof, while later
models have a glass "moonroof" design (better).

I love our S4.  It's a better all-around car than my old 1995 M3 2-door,
although I still lust for the M3 on certain days and roads when I want to
tear up the tarmac.  I guess what I'd suggest is ask your friend to allow
you to drive his M3 (and accompany you) to a testdrive of an S4/6 somewhere.
That way you could drive both cars back-to-back and see what you think.

Best wishes in your search.  Also, I recommend you check out the website for
S-cars at http://www.audi-s-cars.com/two.htm and read the S4/S6 FAQ
(Frequently Asked Questions) section.  There is also an on-line classified
For Sale section on that site.

Best wishes,
MAJ Andrew B. Seward
'93 Audi S4
'88 Porsche 944 Turbo S