Scott_D.

I noticed on Kelley Blue Book's web site that the S4 5-speed Tip has an axle ration of 3.51, while the 6-speed manual's ratio is 4.11.

What effect do the different ratios have on driving the car?

Thx, Scott D.

Reed Merritt

Scott:

I am not surprised that the axle ratio for the automatic is much "higher" (lower numerically) than the six speed. That would explain the difference in 0-60 times. Automatics usually get higher ratios because the torque converter helps make up for the different gear ratio. The manual gets a higher ratio because it doesn't have the advantage of a torque converter. With a five speed automatic and a six speed manual, though, the point would seem to be moot, IMHO.

I can only surmise that Audi felt they needed more of a "highway" ratio for the automatic to make it feel less "stressed" at highway speeds.

Do you know the final ratios for fifth and sixth gear and the top gears of the Tiptronic? That would explain it further.

I, myself, have a Tiptronic on order, as I have two vintage Corvettes ('57, '67) I drive with four speed manuals and that is enough gear shifting for me. I also have tired of driving my '84 4000 Quattro five speed manual in traffic. Hope I've made the right choice! Now I have to wait until December to get my Tiptronic!

Reed

David

What about the Tip gear ratios? anybody seen this info?