Get an A4?

[Skidud313]

Ok, so here's the deal:

I have a 2003 Honda Accord LX 4dr that I really like and can always count on.

BUT, I live in Denver and really like German cars (I learned to drive on BMW's), AWD and Audi styling.

So, help me evaluate my options between a my Accord with 47k miles on it and an 01 Audi A4 2.8 Quattro with 45k on it.

I gain:
V6 Engine
All Wheel Drive
Sports Package/Suspension
Heated Leather Seats
Moonroof
4 rings on my grille/ego
??

I lose:
Honda reliability
??

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What say you car folks? What about handling?
Thanks for your input...

[mallenfam]

My daughter just bought a 2001 A4 1.8T 5-speed manual 60k miles (we also live in Denver-Lakewood). Her boyfriend has a 2000 Accord coupe 5-speed manual. There are clear pros and cons to the Audi. AWD is huge benefit in snow and is significantly more sophisticated looking, both in and out (black, tinted windows, 17-inch rims). On the other hand, withinweeks of buying it, the SES light keeps tripping, the ABS light is on, and other various electrical circuits are quirky.

Either engine, 1.8T or 2.8 (I have driven 2001 Passat 4motion with 2.8) are pretty fast off the line, but feel uninspiring at highway speeds. Handling is sharp, though.

They are two very different cars - one practical and reliable, the other classy but less reliable. Do you have an inexpensive mechanic or do your own work?

[ANOTHERLURKER]

The Audi will be better in the handling department, in wet, dry and snow. Its a much more solid car, more comfortable and has a higher resale value.

ok, now the bad news. If you have any intentions of ever modifying the car and trying to get more power, do NOT get the 2.8 in the Audi. There is almost nothing out there except a supercharger to get more power from that motor. The rest of the car is great but go for a 1.8t and leave the 2.8
The Honda will be cheaper to get performance parts if thats your interest