JBURDETT

I have decided to go with the 1.8t (unhappy to find that the letherette is not avail for the
sport seats)...but anyways, i have not decided if "2000" is my way due to the fact 98's
are going for nearly10k less. i would greatly appreciate any input on the differences
between 97-2000 models (1.8tqs) interior, controls,anything...(it all makes a dif.) also,
sport steering wheel.....stereo volume controls or not? thanks much!!!!!!!!

AndyC

just remeber on some 1.8T, earlier 98 and older were having problems with the turbo.

just my $.02 cents
AndyC
99 2.8QMS

jburdett

thanks...what kinda problems??..

AndyC

wastegate rod problems in the early A4s 1.8T's.
You may want to check the archives on this isssue for more data..

cheers,
AndyC
99 2.8QMS

TomF

By my recollection, there was an additional heat shield that was added around the turbo around mid-98. I think the wastegate problem also 'fixed' around mid-98. I have an early '98 but no problems so far.

tom
1.8TQMS

ErikR

The turbo's are identical, the oil line got a new C-shaped shield instead of an L-shape. A NON_ISSUE if you run synthetic.

A very small, but annoying number of 97-98-99 turbos had a wastegate rod fail. It is under warranty, and if not obviously modified will likely be under hidden warranty for life. If not, it is a simple fix and doesn't harm the motor/turbo if it does break. Audi replaced the whole turbo, but the rod is ancillary.