JakeAK

Hi, I am in the position to buy a used 97 A4 1.8t. I was going to hold out and buy a more recent year, but this car looks like it is a good deal. Are there any significant changes (pre 2000 and 99.5, I know those) from 97-99 that are important enough to wait for?.. Thanks for your help in advance.

JakeAK
1.8t QMS (Soon, maybe?)

CP

I just bought a used 97 1.8T four months ago and am very pleased. I've since chipped, swaybarred, Alpined, crner and side lighted, PIAAed, and some others and am still happy with my purchase. Things to look for: car is going in tomorrow for a new coolant expansion tank(brown gook), check 1>2 shift...mine is rough with a different clutch take-up point than the other gears, remove underbelly tray and look for leaks, check wear on tires...mine were shot, consider mileage> I just turned 50K this weekend going up to Vermont (go quattro) and definately consider a stereo upgrade>all Audi stereo components suck!!! But overall I am very pleased with the car. No problems yet and the thing flies with the chip.
Good luck to ya!
CP...1.8TQMS, APR, Neuspeed, BFG VR4, PIAA, Alpine, clear corners and sides, many little mods...

JakeAK

Thanks alot CP, I am planning to do it. I have not driven it, I do not know manual well and do not want to start killing a car until I own it (do not worry, I will have someone try it for me!). I cannot wait! I drive a '96 A6 right now, but it just isn't the feeling I want; I love Audis and want to stay in the family!! First upgrades planned: APR Chip, clear side blinkers... Future? Turbo upgrade? Stereo (SOON!), Xenon lights, suspension... I can't wait!!

1.8t qms (soon)

David C

I think you should beaware that 97 1.8 is a good car but the turbos did'nt get the supply of oil they really needed. so turbos were a common replaced part in 97. if you could wait go for a 98 or newer

Mike O'Hare

I need to replace my delta CC radio/cassette player, but don't want the OEM 6 Disc Changer. Were you able to find the Alpine model that's compatible, and how was it hooking up?

thanks,
Mike

1997 1.8tqm

Mike O'Hare

Sorry Jake, I meant CP

DaveN

but I don't believe that is extremely important. I might fit the new heat shield ($10 from the dealer), and run synthetic, and not worry about it. If it's the right car at the right price and has been regularly serviced then I would go for it.