I have always adored the A4. Then I even loved it more when the 1.8T came out. I have driven about 3 or 4 different ones, including the original 2.8 12V, the 1.8T (150 hp) in Tiptronic and manual, and the 2.8 30V in Tiptronic form. For some reason I never found one at the right time, then I bought the SVT.
The 1.8T is very "peppy", though not nearly as fast as the SVT Contour. However, there are so many good chips out there, that one can easily get 200+ hp and 200+ lb/ft torque out of your stock 1.8T engine for several hun $. Brilliant engine because of its ease of upgrading and apparent durability. It's been years now that owners have had chips available, and have you ever heard of an A4 owner blowing their engine?
Must have options: Quattro and the sport package, which lowers the car a tad, stiffens up the suspension, and usually provides better wheels/tires.
Now with the new 2002 A4, I am a bit mixed in terms of opinion. I've only sat in the 2002 A4. It's got an even better interior, but the thing gained a couple hundred lbs, so it won't be as sprightly as the old A4.
I mean 3400 lb for a little 1.8T is a lot of car to pull around!
I always think about trading my SVT for a used 1.8T (pre 2002) but I have 3 more years of extended warranty on the Ford, so maybe not...
Great cars, just think the 2002 is a bit porky.
Kerry
