Re: 1984-1987 Audi 4000 vs Audi 5000

[Kwattro@aol.com]

In a message dated 99-11-09 16:39:30 EST, you write:

<< I want to 
 get a good car for a daughter who is in college, but I don't want all the 
 fuss of maintaining. Even without considering the previous sentence, is it 
 true that the 4000 is more reliable and less
 complicated than the 5000?
  >>


It goes this way....
The 5000 was cutting edge technology in 1985.  The 4000 was cutting edge 
technology in 1984.  The quattro models are more comlicated, more costly and 
more fun than the 2wd models.  The 2wd 4000 model is essentially a VW 
dasher/passat, with a 1.8 4cyl.  They are great on gas, pretty cheap to 
maintain, and simple.  The 5000 2wd had got the 5 cylinder, which was in a 
bunch of Audi/VW models.  However, nearly all have autos, which are beginning 
to fall apart at about this time in life.  They had problems with final drive 
seals, and most of the fwd 5000's I've seen wrecked have been so because of 
the tranny.  The quattro models only came in 5 speeds.
They are different beasts.  Both have 5 cyls, the 5000CS also had a turbo.  
The more tech, the more the money.  The 5000's also had problems in the 
steering racks, and brakes.  The 4000Q models have problems with differential 
locks (not a big deal), rear brakes, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, and 
exhaust.  The quattro models are more expensive to maintain, without 
question.  However, they hold their value better. So, in terms of cheapness 
in general, it would go something like this....

Most:
5000CSTQ, 5000CSTQW
5000SQ, 5000SQW
4000CSQ, 4000SQ
5000S, 5000CS
4000CS, 4000S
Least.

Please, note, this is in general, and does not apply to all situations.  Any 
audi from this period will require regular trips to the mechanic.  

Good luck, they're great cars, but they do need attention.
Later!
Carter J
Kwattro@aol.com
1986 4000CS Quattro
1986 Coupe GT