...is hardly a measure of overall reliability.

STFA and see how many 3.0 torque coverter failures you find. Ask a shop that specializes in Audi Which engine they think is the more reliable design. There have been two cases posted here of cam shaft/lubrication issues with bank one on the 3.0. I've never heard of anyone tearing into a 2.8 for anything other than a failed timing belt, an event that can happen on either engine.

We have owned a variety of Audi's, and we currently own two 2.8 30v engines that have a combined total of nearly 400k miles on them. We have done complete (with seals) timing belt services, changed a few coolant temp switches and replaced one cat between the two cars. Again, not trying to knock anyone with a 3.0, but they do not approach the level of reliability of the 2.8.

...or maybe I'm just biased?

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