DrGP

is the S4 just another middle of the pack car? Back in 03 when the 04 S4 was released, 340 HP seemed like quite a lot. Now we have 400 HP Corvette( 500 Hp Zo6), 425 Hp Chrysler Dodge,and Jeep Hemis(various models). 400 HP Cadillacs, Trailblazers, GTOs. STIs and Mitsus that are faster than our S4s. Not to mention Mustang GTs and the soon to be released Shelbys. Factor in the new RS4 and upcoming V8 M3. I personally don't think it is just about HP/torque and 0-60 and 1/4 mile times but I do believe you can never have too much HP. Is the S4 losing its appeal due to falling behind in the HP performance wars.

liggy

There will always be faster cars out there. I surely didn't buy it just for that reason. Even though it is losing ground to many cars in the sheer speed department it still offers a cool combination of attributes.

If it were only 500lbs lighter and had an AWD system like the C4S.

When it comes time to replace my S4 I might have to jump into a 997 C4S.

DrGP

I have posted previously that I am considering a C6 corvette coupe as a replacement when my lease runs out in 17 mos. I may change my mind until then because this S4 is the best car I have ever owned in 39+ years of driving. I think I will miss it. I don't know if I would consider a B7 S4 which will be just about at the end of its run in mid 2007. Plus that suckermouth grille has never grown on me.

NVS4

represents a unique balance of power, performance, luxury, and style that I feel very few other cars can achieve all around.

And I'm sure the 400hp cars will be eclipsed by a newer generation of relatively(!) affordable 500-600hp cars in a few years.

Don't forget Mercedes' new AMG 63 cars will all be sporting around 500+ hp in a very short while.

liggy

If I could find a new Z06 for MSRP I've already got the o.k. from the wifey. Not gonna happen anytime soon. Even though I'm not a real Corvette fan how can you not lust after 505hp and gobs of torque and 3100lbs? : )

This is my business vehicle though - not a track toy. I have some real reservations about the wisdom of visiting customers in a 911 or 'vette. The S4 is much less "in your face"

Maybe I'll go with an year or two old RS4 and paint the bumper to make it less fugly. I love the new crease that runs the length of the body. I don't like the rear of the B7 much either.

414hp could make up for a lot of that though. LOL

frankk

cheap horsepower (GTO, Hemi), impractical (Vette) or significantly more expensive than the S4 (RS4, V8 M3, Z06). Just go test drive an Evo or a Charger SRT8 and you'll be convinced. The Evo has a great jump but it's no V8 when running from speed. The Charger is pure power if you can accept bubbles in the dash and a cheap plastic interior in a brand new car (plus automatic only).

When you bought your car, the M3 and C32 were faster, yet you went S4. Your decision is supported by almost every review the S4 participated in, winning 1st place over the M3, C32, C55, CTS-V, etc.

S4 is the total package.

And in a mere 2 weeks you can add a supercharger and own every car you listed :-)<ul><li><a href="http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/91-MUSTANG-COUPE-5-0-TWIN-TURBO-VERY-FAST-600-HP_W0QQitemZ4602955015QQcategoryZ6236QQssPageNameZ WDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem">Cheap HP</a></li></ul>

DrGP

0-60 times and 1/4 mile times.

frankk

Everyone has their priorities. It is truly personal. The S4 offers balance. You can't compare it on one dimension. My wife's Pilot can seat 8. My old Defender can't be beat off road. The Elise is untouchable on back roads. All are cheaper than the S4. But the S4 offers luxury, performance, fun, safety, convenience, warranty, etc. All in a nice stealth package that looks and sounds fantastic. To each their own. After two years and tons of test drives, I still love my S4.

Blau Flash

couldn't agree with you more!

mofos

from the inside out tops almost every car out on the market today, almost. I believe our interior is constructed and designed by the best! Somone obviously knew what they were doing. I went to a car show in Sacramento, Ca last month and believe me the only car's that had an awesome interior were the Bently's or the High, High priced sports cars such as the Ferrari's and Lambos. Yeah, some of the American cars have more horsepower and claim to be FAST, although that's all they have going for them because their interior and overall styling is damn POOR! For the price of our cars(2004 B6S4), In my own opinion, The overall construction of our car is TOP NOTCH!! My car turns heads everyday I drive it!!