It seems that the 2.8 30v and the 1.8T make similar HP figures. How much of a difference is there in driving? Is the 2.8 worth the extra $$$?

Cheers,
Adam

When I started shopping, I looked exclusively at six cyl. cars. For me, it was going to either be a BMW 3-series or an A4 2.8. When it came time to buy, I took a 1.8t for a ride just out of curiosity. I loved it. Even in stock form this engine feels more responsive (I knew nothing about chipping then). I bought the 1.8t and have since installed a Wett 1.0.

The 2.8 is quieter and smoother, but not as much fun IMO.

Paul Clowser
98.5 1.8tqms, Wett

Well worth the differnce! My parents bought the Passat (loaded) 2.8 and I have a chipped 1.8T. The 2.8 is nicer...and you can chip that one too.

not much. A few measly horsepower and maybe an improvement in the 2.8's flat spot in its torque curve.

Here's the bottom line. If you are willing to tune (chip) your car, the 1.8T is by far a better buy. A chipped 1.8T is a hair faster than a stock 2.8, lighter (better handling), and in my opinion the tuned 1.8T powerplant has a lot sportier feel to it than the 2.8.

HOWEVER, the 2.8 is a bit smoother and certainly quieter. And if you want the luxury goodies like leather seats and wood trim, then by all means spend the extra 5 grand and get the 2.8. Those were not my priorities, so the 1.8T was an easy choice for me.

BDW '99 1.8Tqms (Wett, K&N)

Sounds like something you get, when shopping for A4 upgrades. 8^)

CraigB

I would be interested! I always thought it would be much more.

BDW

nt

I don't think Catskins or whatever, aftermarket leather is going to be equal to the factory in fit, finish, or quality. The Audi leather is beautifully finished, and the wood trim is also very nice. Not to say this guy shouldn't buy the 1.8T, but don't try to say that adding aftermarket wood and leather to a 1.8T makes it equal to a 2.8.

99.5 2.8 (natch) Avant QMSS

nt

Both are great engines.

nt

i bought and received 3 pieces of audi oem wood trim (from Clair Express) for my 99.5 1.8t. the pieces are just for the console area. total price around $500.00. just look at the wood trim on a 2.8, it's exactly the same. i'll try to take some pictures when i get my car. the wood pieces look very nice along side the aluminum trim. it's not cheap, though. al....

some comments to make about it. I bought CST's Titanium colored leather for my Opal Grey interior.<ul><li><a href="www.classicsofttrim.com">www.classicsofttrim.com</a</li></ul>

Just kidding...so chill out.

But when I test drove the 2.8 I was shocked at how it didn't have that much more than the 1.8 turbo. Now with the chip....FORGET ABOUT IT - the 1.8t wins every time!

If your going for the automatic trans then the 2.8 makes sense. I like shifting high revs (old habit from my Integra days) and in the words of EDMUNDS.COM "the 1.8t is a HOOT to drive hard".

MitchC 99.5 1.8tqms

By the way, my 2.8 has a PES. Still want to race?

nt

since you now have invested close to 40K in your A4. No hard feelings about above? It's just that when someone posts the 1.8T vs. 2.8 question, while I have my bias, I always inform about the positives of both models, as you can see if you bother to read it. I don't put a purely inflammatory post on the board, like your "it's still a 1.8T." You seem to be very defensive about your choice of A4 model, and I can't see why. Concerning the mod of your car, I don't consider a $5,000 PES upgrade something the majority of people asking about the two models would consider.

And by the way, a lot of people who frequent this board like to have a little "stoplight fun" within reason.

BDW