Hey SVT10,
I just recently finished test driving the A4 1.8T (5 spd), A4 3.0 (6 spd) and the S4. All on the same day in this order. My experience behind the wheel of the 1.8T was alright but not enough to rid me of my '99 SVT. Here are my thoughts:
1) I wasn't really impressed by the pudgy look and stance of the redesigned exterior. I do like the dual exhaust and tail lights;
2) I hated the faux leather seating but loved the amenities (heated seats, dual zone climate control and aluminum trim), stuff our SVTs never got to see;
3) As for performance, my SVT is way more fun to drive. I think this has lots to do with the sound of our exhaust. I found the 1.8T has an unfriendly shift feel. Don't get me wrong, the car can haul ass........just not the way I like it.
4) I would opt for the performace package. The 17" wheels on the 3.0 I test drove made a world of difference compared to the 15" on the 1.8T.
Things got better when I got into the 3.0. This was due to: real leather, more comfortable seating, the optional performance package and the V6 motor.
If you have the cash, shoot for the top and inquire about the '02 S4. This still has the old body style (my preference) and the 2.7 litre twin turbo engine. Unbelievable. Audi has ceased production of the '02 S4 due to the upcoming redesign (rumoured V8). An '02 S4 may be difficult to find but possibly priced right.
By the way, I got a speeding ticket while test driving the 1.8T about 40 seconds after pulling off the lot. Maybe this tarnished the experience.
After this run of test drives I was left wanting the S4. I new if I bit and traded in the SVT on either the 1.8T or 3.0 I would have been left wanting more (S4), which happens to not be in the cards at the moment. Thus, the SVT rides on!
