Bruch

Reading the Vandy S4 post put me in a good mood, so I thought I'd throw this out there and see what comes back.
I've had a number of B3s, B4s and a B5 over the years, do all my own work, etc. Now that I've survived a job loss, and am working again, I'd like to reward myself with an S4. (Also, the kids are grown and moved out, so its safe to have one in the driveway)

Generally, when I buy a car it's somebody else's problem that they just want to dissappear. CELs, mysterious electrical, expensive estimates from the shop. So by the time its ready and on the road, I know the car inside and out. Maybe not such a good plan for my first S4?

This one is tempting
http://pittsburgh.craigslist.org/cto/1478243272.html

Its a tiptronic, and I'm not so confident in Audi automatics. Otherwise, a good deal?

I think I like the B5 S4 better than the later ones, because they seem lighter, smaller and more nimble. Nationalism aside, is that a valid generalization?

How do I tell if a modded S4 is done properly, besides if the silicone hoses are all the same color?

Thats enough rambling for now. Any opinions welcome
Bruch

bingS4

I wouldn't bother with a tip. Plenty of 6MTs out there for sale.

Grifnsqest

http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=4500366

here's one worth flying out to see! just in time for winter

donromani

Actually color matching of the boost hoses doesn't mean much. I've had to replace a few of my ebay set with one that came with later installs - for example the APR bipipe has bigger outlets to the diverter valves so it came with hoses to fit.

The B5's are better for modding but the later models are nice too. The main difference is they are NA engines with most of the power going to the rear wheels (the B5 is exactly the opposite).

What most people check is things like the tie rods and control arms. Check for torn CV boots - ask for proof that the timing belt was done if the car has 70k or more miles on it or be prepared to do that right away.

Otherwise it is the same as any other car - you are just a likely to end up with a lemon as with any other model. It sounds like you typically do your homework when buying a car so you should be fine. This is a good vehicle and lots of fun!

massboykie

Hey Bruch

These two docs might be handy to look through for "what to look for" etc:

http://www.vaglinks.com/Docs/Audi/B5...uyersguide.pdf
http://www.vaglinks.com/Docs/Audi/B5...Newbie_FAQ.pdf

Hope that helps in the search.

Cheers
Massboykie