The sludge issues are generally related to the 1.8t, not the V6 engines.

The 2.8 engine is rock solid. The main complaint seems to be oil leaks; particularly from the cam adjuster seals. If you keep up with oil changes, do your timing belt services on time, and replace cam adjuster seals with each timing belt service, you will have no problems.

The 3.0 engine utilizes a more complex valve timing adjustment system. 02 and 03 engines have seen lubrication issues to the bank one head. The torque converters in the 3.0 have seen internal seal failures.

4Driver4

"Never give up the throttle until the bitter end." -RC

1990 Coupe Q
1999 A6 Sedan Q 2.8
2000 A4 Avant Q 2.8
1995 Mazda Miata: the anti-Audi
1999 Chevy Suburban: the anti-earth :-(
1990 Nissan Pickup: Snow plow/garbage hauler