mushin

I currently own an A4 and am thinking about buying an A6 but can't decide on the 2.7T or the 4.2. Which performs better (acceleration, handling, etc..). Any hard numbers are apreciated.<p>'97 A4TQ

pablo1

If you are looking for a 6 speed, then you must go with the 2.7T. However if you want a tip the differences in hard numbers, 0-60, are minimal: 6.6 for the 2.7T vs. 6.7 for the 4.2. I find the V8 power more satisfying than the turbo and prefer the feel and look of the car. The reason why the 4.2 does not out accelerate the 2.7T from the standing start is because of the weight difference and the much higher (numerically lower) gearing of the 4.2 (it is under 3000 RPM at 90MPH). I have a 4.2 with the sport pkg. and you can draw your own conclusions regarding my objectivity, but I did drive both cars with and without the sport pkg. and preferred the 4.2 significantly. In the real world I prefer the instant response of a naturally aspirated large engine. You can chip the 2.7 and end up with slightly more than 300 HP and more importantly about 365 lb. ft. of torque while chipping a 4.2 will yield a 22 HP increase to 322 and approx. a total of 315 lb. ft. Good luck.

Frank C@work

The "feel" of the V8 is true as per Pablo's comments. I have had a 2.7T w/tip and PSK for 3 months now (to which I've added 17" wheels/tires) , and my boss just got a non-sport package 4.2, which I have driven several times in different driving conditions. I do believe the 2.7T has more desirable handling characteristics, as does my boss. I don't think the stiffer suspension of the sport pkge on the 4.2 would change this impression much, since the dynamic I'm referring to is more of a front-end weight issue. Perhaps the numbers may not indicate that there is truly much of a difference, as the 4.2 has an aluminum hood to help compensate for the heavier engine. But both of us (my boss and I)do agree that the 2.7T feels a little lighter on its feet. You wouldn't make a mistake either way. Good luck.

DennisD

I'm siding more for the 4.2 too. I've been reading some of the threads regarding chipping the 2.7L even in S4 form , there seems to be more complaints of turbo, engine failure, premature parts wear. I chipped a Toyota turbo yrs ago, blew 2 turbos, that's why I ended up w/ the NSX. Agree w/ Pablo1, chipping a normally asp engine doesn't do much (have a Wett chip in my 2.8L A6,soon to give to my wife). For the cost of the 4.2L, I'm going to go there but in '01. Considered the S4 but for my $$, the 4.2L better buy.Good Luck
DennisD

muhammadc

Frank, which did you pick for your 2.7TT?<p><img src="http://www.tractorbynet.com/images/msig.gif">

<b><a href="http://registry.audiworld.com/audi/registry/details.asp?car=2830">100CS</a> - <a href="http://registry.audiworld.com/audi/registry/details.asp?car=5188">A6Q</a></b>

Audiablo

<p><img src=http://www.vizsoft.com/~oliver/A6spin.gif>

mikef4.2

Numbers are really just that, numbers. They don't communicate feel, torque, steering etc. Drive both cars back to back. They each have a different personality. Really. Also, don't write-off the Tip. It's good. One is not "better" than the other, just different.

Frank@home

The S4 Avus wheels.

muhammadc

<p><img src="http://www.tractorbynet.com/images/msig.gif">

<b><a href="http://registry.audiworld.com/audi/registry/details.asp?car=2830">100CS</a> - <a href="http://registry.audiworld.com/audi/registry/details.asp?car=5188">A6Q</a></b>

Frank C@work

Stock PSK suspension.