I'm about to join the ranks of A4 owners but am trying to decide if the 2.8 is worth the money. I know the 2.8 will be a great car. I'm trying to figure out if the 1.8T will meet my needs as well. If we go the 1.8T route, I've already found the perfect car at a nearby dealer- no waiting! How is 1.8T it on long trips and at highway speeds? Does the turbo noise get annoying after a few hours? We plan a cross-country trek next summer, so we want to be comfortable with the car. (6000 miles of driving!) Is it OK for towing (only about 600 lbs.) I've never towed anything with a turbo and don't know if it might damage the engine.<p>Thanks. This board has been immensely helpful in narrowing our choices.<p>I did try checking the archives, but kept getting some sort of catalog error.

Erik, I think we should start our own talk show. We could call it "This week's debate on which A4 to buy!".<p>knh, my vote is go with the 2.8 if it doesn't significantly affect your cashflow. IMHO, on long trips, I want comfort and the 2.8 is aimed more at near-luxury comfort than bang-for-the-buck performance. You will enjoy either car. Drive both and let your heart decide.<p>I think having all the torque you can get is important for towing. The 2.8 has more torque and it comes on at low RPMs.<p>Drew S.<br>

I have a new 1.8t. It has the new hood insulation. Engine noise does not bother me at all. But there is considerable wind noise at highway speeds, mostly it seems, from the side view mirrors. Also, although the car is fun to drive around town, I'm not crazy about driving on the highway for another reason - the steering is extremely light and the car feels darty. I imagine I'd have the same complaints about the 2.8 since the body and steering are the same. <p>Just my opinion, add it to the mix.<br>

the tires need a few hundred miles to rub off the factory outer coating and also it takes time to get used to the more responsive feel.<p>I felt exactly the same way when I first got my 2.8, but everything seemed to settle down and now I actually prefer the precise and responsive steering...<p>-PhilJ

I have no problems with the noise of the 1.8T at highway speeds. I find quite comfortable cruising at 70 or so.<p>However, if you're towing 600 lbs, even though that doesn't sound like much, I'd suggest the 2.8. If in doubt, ask the dealer to show you the owners manual for both and see if there's a difference in towing recommendations. Good luck.<p>Tom<br>1.8TQMS Silver/Ecru

If you don't want to chip get the 2.8. If you don't mind chipping it is a matter of taste-the 2.8 is a very smooth and quiet.