A4QuattroV6

Like the title says, which engine and trans is the most reliable for the B5 and B6 A4's and C4 and C5 A6's. My Audi is getting old and while I could never part ways with it, I'm looking for a new daily and I know the 2.8 30v is susceptible to oil leaks from cam seals. I don't want that stuff. I will go older or newer. I just want the easiest to work on, most reliable, most durable set-up. The 96 A6 I had ran good but had quirky lighting systems. (my friend bought it and wrecked it) I want something that I can take on 1000 mile trips with confidence.

twentysevenlitres

My 1997 (Nov 96 build) A4 had the 12V 2.6 V6 (ABC Euro spec engine).
I did over 130k km (80k miles) with that car and more than doubled the milage it already had on it and never had an issue engine wise (car was very reliable too, just usual B5 issues like control arms).
The US equivalent is the 2.8 12V AFC engine, almost identical bar bore size I think.
There's even a thread on here (probably under 12V V6 discussion forum) comparing engine mileages!

As for gearbox, I don't think you can go past the 01A five speed manual (01a is for Quattro, 016 is FWD equivalent). They're a tiny bit noisy in 1st, but otherwise a great gearbox!

William Thieme

I'd say 2.8 30V based on my experience with my '98.
I have been planning to take a road trip in it, actually.

As long as the maintenance is done right, you should be fine in a 2.8.
The oil leaks are usually due to a PCV system that has failed, too, based on what I've read.