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Thanks for write-up, most on this board (archive)
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Posted by appreciate honest comparos. Paul on August 29, 2000 at 01:40:01:

In Reply to: Impressions: My current S4 vs. my old e46 323i... posted by Root Down on August 27, 2000 at 23:25:22:


Allright I know that this post is gonna cause a lot a replys so I'm gonna say up front DON'T TAKE ANY OF THIS PERSONAL PLEASE. It is only my opinions. I traded my MY99 323i in for the Audi S4 back in march and I have to admit it was both a good and bad decision. Obviously the 12k I had to put up in the trade was not fun, but for the extra power I think it was worth the money. In retrospect I wish I could have bought the S4 first and saved the money but that's life. OK so here is my list of opinions on various aspects of the cars:

1. Engine: The S4 has any non-M BMW 3 beat hands down. Fast as hell, bi-turbo, soo to have a 350 hp, 390 lb-ft kit for $3150. Audi definitely has the powerplant advantage.

2. Suspension: Stock, I have to say the BMW has the advantage, except on REALLY bumby roads and in the wet. I have the S4 lowered now and it is much better than before, but that was another $1200.

3. Transmission: Again BMW has Audi beat. Aside from the extra gear that I have now (which honestly has no real purpose) the S4 transmission is rather rubbery and loose. My first and second dear synchros are blown due to a defect in the tranny (warranty) and the throw is REALLY long (need short shifter). The BMW is soooo smooth. Lots of fun to drive, second only to Porsche.

4. Exterior: On the outside I don't really have an opinion of which looks better. I used to favor the BMW, but I have grown to love the S4 looks. I guess it's all opinion anyway.

5. Interior: Hmmmm... another tossup. The BMW is definitely more focused on the driver and is comfortable, but the Alcanterra (like suede) seats af the S4 are really nice. They grip on your ass is really amazing, although some people (like my brother) hate it. I guess overall I like the Audi better.

6. Service: I think that this varies between dealers but in my case Audi service is excellent. I definitely prefer Audi in my case (however BMW did replace two complete sets of brakes for me for free :)

7. Overall quality of craftsmanship: You may rejoice! BMW has Audi beat hands down. No questions that is just the truth, BMW are built better.

8. Overall impressions: Well when it comes to the engine and tranny (quattro!!) I love Audi, at least where I live b/c it snows and rains a hell of a lot. For racing, I like rear wheel drive but will always prefer AWD. What every car needs is the Porsche Carerra 4 system (the bomb).

Well that is just my opinions and impressions on the two cars. Where I live and for my purposes I don't and never will regret the change to Audi. If I lived in Florida, I'd get an M3, but I just love quattro. Soon I'll have OZ F1 wheels (thanks Eddie!) and I think that will improve the looks of the S4 even more. Check out the pics of the two cars posted as follow-ups and for gad's sake, respond to this if you feel that your opinion should be heard. That's all, Folks!

Jon




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