change from 97 to 98?

While researching for the purchase of my new A4 I noticed JD Power rated the 97 1.8T more mechanically sound over the 98 model. Can any owners of these 2 models give me some feedback on these ratings? Is the 97 model drastically improved over the later 98 model? Thanks in advance.

I have the 98 1.8T, and it has been very good for me. I just passed 100,000 miles this week and I bought it with 69,000 on it. When I bought it I just made sure the timing belt had been changed. I did have to replace the oil pump though, ($500). Other than that I haven't had any problems with the engine itself. It runs great and if you take care of the turbo, it'll last quite a while. The turbo is the weak spot with audi engines.

As for the car mechanically, I have really only had to replace the normal stuff periodically for a car with 100,000 miles on it. That is, brake pads, wheel bearings, oil/oil filter, air filter, spark plugs, tires, etc. Really that's about it. I haven't had too many problems with mine at all.

I have seen some however that have had lots of problems, it's really just how the person takes care of it and how maintenance is done. As for the 97 model, I can't help you out with specifics there.

From what I've gathered, 97's have forged internals, the rest dont.