Hi everyone:<p>I got turned onto this very cool site by a friend who owns a '98 1.8T with a chip. After riding in his car, I'm keen on the idea of getting an A4 myself, but I'm torn between the smooth, quiet V-6 and the spunky Turbo 4 with a chip. Both deliver about the same horsepower (if you believe the chipmaker's claims of 40 additional horsepower on the 1.8), but I'm having a difficult time making up my mind. Checking out the specs on this page, I didn't notice a huge difference in the std. equipment levels of 1.8 vs. 2.8. So, my question is, is a V-6 model worth the extra few grand over a 1.8T with a chip - and if so, why? I believe it might be worth it for me, as most of my driving is on long (120+ miles) freeway commutes, and I'd like the car to be as quiet and smooth as possible. Please share your opinions!!! -MKL '98 Harley XL1200C / '97 Honda Civic EX

I think a significant determining factor in the 1.8T vs. 2.8 question concerns transmission choice. IMHO, if you're thinking Tiptronic, think 2.8; if you're thinking 5-speed, they're both great choices, but the relative performance difference isn't worth the ~$4000.~ spread.

If you read the specs on the new TT w/ the 1.8turbo motor, you will see that they did more than just chip the motor to get 30 more hp. And in the 225 hp version, it's a very very different motor from pistons to bearigs to drive line. So, the next question is...is 80 mph different in a 1.8 vs the 2.8? Not really...80 mph is still going to be 80 mph. But, as the saying goes, there is no substitute for horse power...and if that's what you want, consider the value of letting Audi do the engineering. It might cost $4k more for the V6...but you get all that horse power plus your warranty. Check around and find out what a rebuild on a 1.8 costs. The odds are, with a chip, you'll be finding out sooner than later. And it won't be covered by Audi...or the folks who sold you the chip. Both cars will do 100 mph all day long...so let you wallet and your warranty be your guide.

"and I'd like the car to be as quiet and smooth as possible"....you are probably gonna be more happy with the 2.8 V6 30V car. However, there is about $4-5K difference if similarly optioned. Both are very nice.<p>Steve S.<br>97 2.8QM

For me, there was never a question. Yes, money was an issue (bank owns half of the car). My car background included among others the Audi I-5, the recent Honda I-4, and a friend's A4 V6. <p>When it came down to put around $35k on the table, I was really not asking whether it should be $30k or $35k. Both is more than I can "justify", but then I spend about 20k miles per year in my car, often on very long stretches, and when I am spending this much money, it better be smooth. And the V6 is about as smooth as it gets.<p>Let's face it: with my Accord I went thru a set of tires and brakes each year. Maybe I am getting old (30), but since I've owned my A4, I think I am much calmer and happier, and probably use even less fuel than with the Accord. Which does not mean the V6 is no "fun" - it sure is, just a different kind.<p>So my vote is for the V6. But if you want to buy a Tip, you absolutely should not get the 1.8T - I had a loaner 1.8T tip and it was really, really no fun.<p>- Stan

I would much rather rebuild a 1.8t vs the 2.8. Were talking ten more valves, two more cylinders, two more cams etc. The 1.8t is also smaller so pulling the engine wouldn't be as hard and from the looks of my 1.8t engine bay it will not be hard at all. Both of these engines are going to run at least 100k miles chiped or not so it really doesn't matter unless your planning on keeping your A4 for the long haul.<p>Corey<br>

Back in Nov of 97 I would have had to wait 4 to 6 months for a 1.8T. I could get dealer allocation on a 2.8 Tip and only wait 3 months. 1.8T were in very short supply at the time. I went with the 2.8 and I'm very happy with it. I especially like the 5 spoke wheels, wood, power seat, chrome trim, and that silky smooth V6. The 5 spokes were high on my list of mods to the 1.8T if I had purchased it. I'm sure what ever model you select you will be getting one of the finest cars you have ever owned. I know it is a tough choice.<br>Roy M 2.8q Tip