run_xc

I'm looking to be getting a used B7 S4, or a used B7 A4 S-line and tune it up. But out of both cars I need help on which one of them is more reliable? If anyone can give me some info, it will be thankful.

Tgr_Clw

Audi and reliable don't belong in the same sentence.

Tanner

Let's see... 1986 Audi 5000S

- the brake "bomb" needing to be replaced three times
- bearings at all four corners replaced at least twice
- AC not working
- no heat in the winter
- wires from the door to the body all broken - not able to adjust side mirrors, probably due to the cold winters (-30C)
- drivers door handle breaking several times due to winter temperature again
- buzzing relay when driver heated seat used
- dead speedometer
- slow/inoperative wipers
- driver and passenger power windows not working (at least twice)
- cruise control stopped working

All of this shortly after the warranty expired. Today's Audi's are significantly better than earlier ones obviously.

Note that if you do decide to mod at A4 2.0T, do expect that reliability will be less perhaps. I know of several chipped B5 S4s that are meticulously maintained, only thing that dies eventually are the turbos, though when something fails, it isn't cheap.

Want something reliable and cheap, get a Toyota Corolla.

ZenTT

I would deffinatly go for the S4. You will easly spend the price difference between the two cars doing a big turbo upgrade and you will be much better off in the long run with the S4. You will have a warranty if you do have problems and wont ruin the value of the car. You should be able to get cert pre owned and get a 100k mile warranty. As expensive as these cars are to fix I wouldn't throw that away. Trust me on this I learned the hard way with a big turbo upgrade and tons of mods on my last audi. Couple nuked tranys at close to 5k a pop later and audi dealerships that didnt want to work on the car or where unable to work on the car (better not live far away from your tuner or move far away) and it had to go.

Youreviltwin

one isnt that fun. I had a B6S4 with everything and it was fast fun and sounded great. Its a bit heavier than the A4. With the A4 2.0T you can tune it to hell but then you play with warranty and depending how how big a turbo you go... you put more stress on everything. But.. with the A4 its lighter gets better mpg and with turbo you are a lot less limited.

run_xc

Yeah your right, these cars are expensive. Maybe I will change my mind on getting a new GTI and just chip it up and with a good exhaust. thanks!

run_xc

How fast can the A4 get with just a chip and a good exhaust. I think I still lose warranty too! thanks for your info!

Jack Linguini

Have to strongly disagree that statement.
My 2004 A4 1.8t quattro automatic had NO problems
in 45000 miles. Only time it was in the shop
was for standard maintenance, brake pads and
brakelights and headlights. When I turned it in
it still drove tight and straight. And had no
rattles. Its' hard to keep a new car rattle free.

Now I didn't chip or mod it, but as delivered
from the factory it was rock solid for 45000
and 3 years. My 07 has been trouble free as well.
8000 miles and the alignment is nice and straight.
Motor just gets more powerful.

I'd argue for a 2.0t and mild tuning.

For $600 you can get the torque on 2.0t
to 240. On the s4 it puts 250 to the ground.
we don't need no stinking v8.

lnferno

In 1980, my dad bought a brand new 5000 Quattro. I think he got a lemon or something because that thing would always stall out on him. For example, just sitting at a light, the car would just stall. Audi never could figure out what the deal was with it. My dad drove it straight to the Cadillac dealership (left it running for fear that it would start up again). He bought a Caddy right then and there and left the car running for them! He swore he would never own another Audi again. Audi definitely had their issues in the early-mid 80s. Ironic now because I've owned two Audis and love them!

Youreviltwin

same experience. had no problems with mine.