Hello,<br> I drove a BMW 328i just recently, and was annoyed at how much I wanted a nice sports<br>sedan, but how much I had to pay for it? $33k+ for a car that everyone else drove really<br>is too much ... plus the car had loose steering and really didn't "feel" that fast. I honestly<br>didn't like it, and I thought I would.<br> Enter the A4. This weekend I drove a new '99 A4 quattro 2.8 30v. I was amazed. Comfy<br>seat, tight handling (yes it had the sports package) fun motor (nice kick after 3,000rpm)<br>5-speed manual (can't find 'em anymore) surefooted in the wet and how much less? I was looking at Maximas for that price just last year. <br> I've found my next vehicle that promises to be fun for years ahead. I'm selling my floaty,<br>boaty Infiniti and saving to get one next summer, '99!. I hope Autobytel can really get me a good deal on one!<p>Mark<p>

You're on the money. Dollar-for-dollar, the A4's a better buy than the bimmer 3. (The uniqueness quotient's also important.)

I test drove a 1998 A4 2.8 quattro and a 1999 BMW 328i back to back recently. Both cars were manual, but only the A4 had the sport package. The BMW came with the Premium package which includes moonroof, wood trim and leather seats. I agree with you that the A4 is a better value. I would definitely pick a 2.8QMS over a 323i, but the 328i was definitely the better car IMHO. The engine and transmission felt more refined. The 328i wasn't that much faster than the A4, but the ride felt more refined (for lack of a better word). The handling of the A4 was obviously better because of the sport suspension. The BMW's interior is at least as nice as the A4's with the optional wood trim. There is more rear seat room. <p>In summary, I would go with the A4 as the better value, but pick the 328i as the overall better car.

I like the way you said that. Every one is entitled to their opinions.<p>Steve S.<br>97 2.8QM

Well, Ali<p>I would disagree with you on that the 328I is a overall better car.<p>I test drove a 328i w/sports package and here is what I liked and disliked about 328i compared to a 98 2.8 QM<p>Liked: Frontend design, much improved interior layout, crispier road feedback.<br>disliked: rearend design, loud engine noise, still cheaper looking dash and switches, no Q.<p>If A4 QM with Sports and 328i M with Sports cost the same, I would still pick A4 for it's balance of sportiness, power with comfort and luxury.