bstone

My 97 with the 2.8 seems to just sort of lumber along... I've never owned one before, so maybe the performance I am seeing is normal? Granted, maybe the 2.8 is a bit under powered for such a heavy car, but I guess I would have expected it to be a bit more "zippy".. Any thoughts here? I'm not looking for any major mods or anything. Just wondering if there is something I can do to restore some power or throttle response- or am I expecting too much?

Thanks-
Brady

Rusty Spokes

A good service with new spark plugs, air filter and the like will really help. Be sure the engine is in good tune. If you can, check the cams with the timing bar. I have found our 12v V6 engines may have had a timing belt change without the right tool and the cams were not exactly in time. the engine will run without damage..but not make good power.

Look on the bay..be sure it fits a 12v engine like this one.

Audi A4 A6 V6 2 Valves Twin Cams Alignment Timing Locking Tool | eBay

bstone

Hmm.. interesting info on the timing belt. Mine was done at 155K, I'm at 190K now. Thanks for that info. Any preferences on the plugs?

Yeah, it's odd... seems to run pretty well once I get up to speed, but I've noticed at lights or stop signs or merging onto the highway I have to put my foot in it more than I would have thought.

Rusty Spokes

I like NGK # BKUR6ET10..did the lack of performance just show up or has it always been sluggish?
The V6 in my Cabriolet (it is a lighter car) spins up just fine. In the Avant..well it is a heavier car and needs for throttle to go.

bstone

Well, I've only had it a couple weeks, and no prior experience with Audis- except for a 4000 2dr many years ago-- not the same animal. So not sure if I can answer that. The guy I bought it from did mention it, and I did notice it a bit on the test drive. Again, it's hard to say since I don't really have a comparison. And it's not like it hesitates or misfires or anything- engine runs fine. Best way I can describe it is it seems tired... but it's no young pup after 19 yrs and 190K- so maybe it just is what it is. I'll do a tune up and see what shakes out. Thanks again for the advice.

Jaxx3d

I've had my 98 (C4) A6 quattro 2.8 avant, 204K miles for a few weeks now and to be honest i was pleasantly surprised by its pull. It's no big block by any means but it gets up and goes when i need it to.

I did a basic tune up on it yesterday,air filter,plugs,wires,oil change etc.. and didn't notice any real difference. But i just got the car and I like to have all that stuff done so i know when to change it out next..

Tires and strut cartridges will be on this week and that will help drastically with handling and all around driveability..