tjm02s6

I'm currently looking at 2 2001 avants, both with excellent service history. I found a manual for $6500 with close to 200k miles, the other is a auto for $8000 with 120k miles. Which do you think is a better by and less of a headache to work on. Will not be doing any mods, mostly a run around car for the kids and dogs. thanks for any input!

tjm02s6

I forgot to add the manual just had new timing belt and clutch installed. how much would you pay for a s4 with 200k miles on it?

malinowskiski

Well, from my own experience I would say that you ought to make sure the Automatic hasn't had any torque converter problems or has had it rebuilt because it seems to be a pretty common problem for them on the ZF5HP19FLA transmission, which is what our Tiptronics use.

Also, I would check to see if either are 2001.5s or older model years. I own a 2001.5 and I don't worry about my DVs, TBB, F-hoses or any of that stuff and I think that would be something you wouldn't want to worry about either. A simple way to check is usually by the badges.. 2001.5s and onwards have updated S4 badges on the rear and on the front grille. Or look at the door jam on the driver side and it should show the manufacture date. I think 07/2000 is when they started to revise the car.

Unless the manual one happens to be a 2001.5 Nogaro Blue with blue suede inserts interior (rare and sought after), I would offer $6,000. 200k is a lot of miles on a car, except for maybe a Honda.

tjm02s6

Thanks for the info. $6000 is what I offered but he must think it's worth more, still wants $7000.

GomerPyle

I thought all B5 Avants were 2001.5 or 2002s. Timing belt & clutch are worth quite a bit. TB runs ~ $900 and clutch ~$2K at a shop. Of course that includes all the other fixin's like pulleys, water pump, rear engine seal, trans seal, throw out bearing...

jamesdmanley

keep looking. i wouldnt buy either