S1

I am in the process of deciding on a 2.7T or a 4.2. Which ones do you guys suggest? I like the 4.2 because on a back to back test drive, it handles better (the sports suspension and aluminum construction?), and the mid range thrust is more consistent. Also, slightly because of the wider 4.2 fenders. I like the 2.7T because of the cheaper price, and a chip mod will susposedly make it more powerful than a 4.2 (on the numbers.). What do you think? What about the sport package on the 4.2 and on the 2.7T? Worth the money?
Thank you for all inputs!
JL<p>Not an Audi Owner yet...
very close...

Ed'sA6

I chose the 2.7T because I wanted a 6spd. With a chip, you will have 307 hp with 360 lbs of torque. Zero to 60 in the low 5 second range and all the midrange torque you'll ever need. The 4.2 sports package includes 17" rims and tires, which unfortunately the 2.7T package lacks. Get the 2.7T and with the money you save get new 17" or 18" wheels and tires, along with an APR or GIAC chip. If you go with the 6spd, I definately recommend a UUC short shifter kit. You can sell your stock wheels and tires on the forum. I drove a new BMW M5 the other day and I dare say I preferred the handling and responsiveness of my A6. Don't get me wrong, the M5 is a beautiful car, with a 400 hp V-8, but it felt heavy and sluggish on acceleration out of the turns.

SloopJohnB

We got the 4.2 cuz wifey loves the ambiance (pun intended) and smoother ride. I don't particularly like the corkscrew action of the body/suspension on fast sweepers with undulations in the pavement. My 87 Saab 900T does the same thing but my old 84 900Turbo didn't...and I've driven all three cars on the same section of road (inner beltway Wash DC, 'roller coaster' section right after the merge from 270 onto 495).

If I had a choice I'd get the S4.


The 4.2 isn't a handling car, per se, IMHO.
The torque is nice and the car is easy to drive, but even with the tip the trans is sluggish and has a mind of its own. The six speed in the s4 was adequate when I drove it on a new car but still not state of the art wrt BMW's or even Toyota's boxes.

If you like the handling of the 4.2, buy it...I think it's probably an easier car to live with.<p>John.Binford@DTRA.MIL

blk 2.7Tpsk

I would agree with Ed. If you are considering a chip, go with the 2.7T for sure. I've test driven both the 4.2 and 2.7, and the 2.7 feels more responsive in stock form - with the chip it should be a rocket. Definitely upgrade the shifter, wheels and tires. The 4.2 has the nicer body and interior though...

mikef4.2

Each has a different personality. Everyone on this page can attest, as you can see by the posts below. If you take notice, the 2.7t owners do not trash the 4.2 and 4.2 owners likewise the 2.7t. One cannot be complimentary enough for each. The +/- for each is a mile long. Thankfully the plus side is longer than the minus side for each. I am also thankful that we have a choice. It has been a long wait for AUDI to bring some serious horse power and torque to the states. One can really do no wrong with either one. Pick the one you could live with and still take home to mom and dad. (Even after a night of naughty driving...)

ChrisS -2008 A6-4.2

Funny, I drove them both too. But, I feel as strongly about the 4.2 as Ed does about his 2.7T

1) If money is the primary factor, choose the lower priced vehicle.

2) If looks are the primary factor, the 2.7 will never match the look the flared fenders, lowered stance, and sports wheels on the 4.2. (no matter how much aftermarket $$ you throw at it)

3) If you have your heart set on a 6 speed and the ability (or guts) to play with chips, wheels, tires, and your warranty validity then the 2.7T might be best for you.

4) If you what looks, solid performance, and want to project an upscale (almost an A8) image out of the factory box choose the 4.2.

Easy for me!! Either way a nice cars, and it's great we have a choice.

Bad10

4.2 is a no-brainer based on looks alone...

eduardo

In every other aspect, I think, the 2.7T has the edge: lighter, faster, much more chippable, you can get a 6sp, less expensive.

2.7T 6sp

ChrisS -2008 A6-4.2

Do a survey of just how much 2.7T owners have added to the total cost of thier vehicles to install springs, wheels, and tires.

Not every driver wants a 6-spd or the long term mant.liability of twin turbo's. Add, to that the very likely prospect that you will void your warranty should you chip and need major repairs.

So, out of the factory box the 4.2 meets my personal preferences in terms of looks, performance, luxury, and value for money spent. Particularly when compared to vehicles priced significantly higher, the E430 sport being a case in point.


I will give you this, it could be me! I'm mcuh closer to 50 than to 30 years old. So, the difference in 0-60 performance between the two fails to cause me the slightest bit of heartburn.

H

If you need to seat 5 with shoulder harnesses...the 4.2 is out.