TCR

Okay, I've finally decided to pop for my A6, but I'm not sure which engine is a better choice for me. I live in the mountains above Salt Lake City and the majority of my driving is above 5000'. Do I need the turbo at this altitude or is the larger 4.2 engine a better choice?

Any input would be useful in making my decision.

Thanks.

Tom

mpuzach

Since I don't own either, my input probably isn't worth much. (I have a 2000 2.8Q) You'll get plenty of responses from 2.7T and 4.2 owners, though.

A few thoughts...

1. If you want a 6-speed manual, that narrows it down; only the 2.7T is available with it.

2. The 4.2 includes equipment as standard that's optional on the 2.7T, e.g. auto-dimming mirrors, multi-function steering wheel, leather, sunroof, HomeLink, memory front seats and mirrors, ski sack, and Bose audio system.

3. The 4.2 includes things that are exclusive to it, e.g. power-adjustable steering column with memory, aluminum front fenders, unique front styling, wide wheel well flares, contoured rear seat, 21.7 gallon gas tank (vs. 18.5 gallon on 2.7T), and optional 17" wheels.

Keep nos. 3 & 4 above in mind when comparing the prices of the two models!

4. Two exterior colors are exclusive to the 4.2, Nemo Blue and Andorra Red.

As you can see, there are many differences between the two IN ADDITION to the engines. Good luck.

- Mike<p>mpuzach
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/audiworldpics/2000/SigPicA6.jpg">
2000 A6 2.8Q Tip
Racing Green/Tungsten Gray
Conv Pkg/Cold Wthr/Xenons

Richard Solomon

I've heard 3% per 1000', so figuring the most conservative loss at 5000':
(4.2) 300HP * .97 * .97 * .97 * .97 * .97 = 257.6
(2.7T) 250HP * 1 = 250 (Turbo regulates to ABSOLUTE manifold pressure, thus no altitude loss until extremes take you beyond flow rate of turbo.)

If you go higher than 5000'.... Here in Colorado Springs (6000') I picked the 2.7T. As Mike says, 4.2 wasn't an option for me because I wanted a transmission in the car Even if I were buying the Tiptronic though, I'd go Turbo at altitude.<p>Richard
'00 A6 2.7TQM
"Turbos make torque, and torque makes fun." -Corky Bell

Peter L

i live in a small town up in the mountains and drive my moms a6 4.2 a bunch

ive also drivin it at 3000ft elevation
the car is noticibally slower at 7000ft but i think it is still faster than the 2.7t that i have driven at 7000ft.

If price isnt and issue i would get the 4.2 because i persoanlly think that the 4.2 looks ALOT better that the 2.7t and 2.8
i really like the fender flares plus the back seat seems to be a little better

also neither car that i drove had the sport package and i would say the 4.2 handled better

my 2cents

Jack Orr

Re: No brainer. If you want high altitude performance- go 2.7 T.

Gerry

The price paid for the turbo is that it has to work a bit harder to get up to full boost and thus will have a bit more lag at altitude. V8 will lose more power but will have a bigger throttle response advantage. As always, there's no free lunch.

TCR

Thank you gentlemen. As always it's been informative.

Tom

Mike4.2CBW

When turbo works harder, then TBB's tend to fail...?<p>2000 4.2
Casablanca White / Melange
PSL, ESP, Xenon, Cool

Richard Solomon

not lag. TBB *might* tear more easily as altitude increases because it is seeing higher *relative* pressure (vs the atmosphere which is helping hold the boot together.) I've not seen any correlation on the S4 board between altitude and TBB tears. My own observation is that the people who track their cars seem to have the most TBB problems - just from watching that board.<p>Richard
'00 A6 2.7TQM
"Turbos make torque, and torque makes fun." -Corky Bell

Richard Solomon

than not. I think that if you keep the turbos in their power band they'll beat the snot out of the V8 at altitude. If you mease response from idle, the V8 will likely lead (just like at sea-level) for a bit. Even at sea-level, Audi says the 2.7T is quicker than the V8...<p>Richard
'00 A6 2.7TQM
"Turbos make torque, and torque makes fun." -Corky Bell