BoCo4Mo

I now have an '01 4Mo Passat wagon and am thinking of moving up. I'm considering an A6 or allroad. Probably low mileage used, to take advantage of the huge hit they take in first year depreciation.

I found a great deal on an '02 allroad, but wasn't as impressed as I thought I might be with the way it drives. I drove a new 3.0, and didn't feel it was enough improvement over my Passat to justify the investment.

I like the choices listed in the Subject line. I'd want the Sport Suspension and a Tip.

The differences in the engines are fairly obvious. Is an '02 really that much better than an '01 with either engine? Is there anything else I should consider? i.e. reliability, resale values, suitability for a particular type driving, or ??

2.7tDallas

what didn't you like about the allroad

Stoney

<b>01 vs 02</b>

In 2002, the A6 was revised in some significant ways. Better suspension with lighter components. Sport mode for Tip. Cosmetics inside. Exposed exhaust tips in the rear. New split/double grille, except for the 4.2 which already had it. Many others... see <a href="https://www.audiworld.com/news/01/a6redesign/content.shtml">2002 changes, Audi A6</a>. Because of these changes, the 2002 would seem to be worth more, beyond that due to the time and mileage differences. If you find that used prices for 2002s are higher than you expect compared to 2001, this could be why. If you don't find them higher than expected, then the 2002 would be a better deal. But newer is also more expensive so it may squeeze your budget.

Some reliability problems got better, others worse (coil packs for example failed relatively more in 02, and its not clear that Audi or Bosch have this fixed yet. But failure is still not very common.).

<b>4.2 vs 2.7T</b>

Cost is the main determinant. That, and whether you like the Tip. And whether you really dig the fender flares, or can take or leave them. The 4.2 is marginally more reliable, perhaps the most reliable Audi engine. But it isn't going to benefit much from an engine chip (that doesn't matter if you plan to stay stock to avoid voiding your warranty, which is what I'm doing).

Driving experience is different. The 2.7T is a better sprinter; the 4.2, an autobahn hauler. The 4.2 feels heavier, and indeed it has a larger percentage of weight in front; but part of that is just the very solid feel of the car... it is easy to take corners just as fast in the 4.2, I believe. Torque is there early and effortlessly in the 4.2. But the 2.7T spins up and comes on strong, which some find extra fun.

Having praised the 2002 (I've driven a couple, and written them up here), I am not eager to let go of my 2001 4.2. Part of the reason is the color, Nemo Blue, which dissapeared after 2001. But I'm very happy with it.

Good luck!

IsuedAoAand1

4.2 of course!

BoCo4Mo

Thanks Stoney. Looks like you're the authority...

Yes, I like the fenders on the 4.2. I like the immediate torque - I spend a lot of time in traffic and hate that flat spot right off the line on the turbo. I noticed the 2.7 is a bit better in the fun dept. I didn't get to drive them long enough to get a real feel for handling. (I drove an '01 4.2 w/sport suspension, and new 2.7T). They seem comparable in handling. I was really amazed how flat and planted the 4.2 felt on a cloverleaf off-ramp at high speed.

More questions: What kinds of problems have you or others had with the 4.2? Also, how much is the Audi Assured worth? How much does the steering module cost and are there any drawbacks?

I'd like to be under $40k. I can jump on the '01 4.2 now, or wait for an '02 in the summer... Oh, and I've found an '02 2.7T 6 speed within budget...and an '02 allroad at a bargain price...DECISIONS!!!...

2.7tDallas

does the 02 2.7t have sport package..that would be the way to go

BoCo4Mo

Dallas...I thought the allroad suspension felt more luxury than sport. There are a few infrequent times the adjustable suspension would be handy, but for the vast majority of my driving, I'm skeptical if it will be that much of an upgrade. (no the Passat isn't as powerful, but is better suited for driving in traffic, IMO).

I'm leaning toward crossing a 6 speed off the list. (the '02 does have sport suspension). It would be fun at times, but I spend too much time in stop and go traffic and get lazy...