From the brochure the difference in rear suspension is one of "Torsion-beam axle with trailing arms" on the FrontTrak and "Double control arm (upper and lower)" on the quattro. Not sure technically what the distinction is but it sounds like the quattro may be a bit more sophisticated.

Mark

It does not have an independant suspension. The only real drawback to the torsion design (fairly sophisticated compared to most FWD) design is hitting a bump while cornering, which the Q handles better.

You can probably bet your life that the handling of the Fronttrack is excellent. Audi designs the best drivetrains, suspentions of all cars IMO. I really think so. FWD has excellent characteristics to start with, engine over drive wheels, car being pulled no pushed resulting in excellent preditablity and stability.

The numbers say it doesn't, and so does my butt, having driven both FWD and Quattro versions. That said, the handling on the FWD is quite good (spectacular for a FWD). But it is edged by Quattro when driven agressively, OR in poor traction situations. Not bashing FWD, just stating the facts.

Regards,
Rodney

'99 A4 1.8tqms

If you can't notice the difference, who cares what the rest of us say. It's your money and you'll be driving the car. I greatly prefer Quattro, but that's ME. The A4 handles extremely well, even with FWD.

Regards,
Rodney

'99 A4 1.8tqms

The first time I have ever driven a FrontTrek Audi was the loaner A6 2.8 FrontTrek half year ago. Its handling is spectacular for a front-drive vehicle, No torque steer whosoever. Also, its as fun-to-drive as the Quattro A6.
Tom
97 A4 1.8TQMS "NOT ONLY HIGH TECH, HIGH TOUCH"
99 JETTA IV GLS 2.0
00 NEW BEETLE GLS TDI (ON ORDER)
98.5 A4 1.8TQAS WETTED

I have both, a quattro and frontrack - They drive completely different. The quattro requires a firm grip on the wheel, while the frontrack turns with a breath. Both are fantastic, that's why I've got one of each.

If you're talking off the showroom floor with the Badyear RSA's on the nonsport Quattro, I think it would probably be VERY close. But slap some SP8000's on the nonsport Quattro and in the hands of a good driver I would put my money on the Quattro. It sure wouldn't look as pretty, but try powering out of a turn with a FWD some time. And I don't mean a regular turn, but one where you are already close to the car's limits, the FWD will plow like a pig, but the Quattro will enter a well controled power slide, then lock up traction and rocket off as you unwind the wheel. This of course requires a skilled driver, familiar with the car, and confident enough in their abilities to push the car to 9/10nths or even 10/10nths.

Regards,
Rodney

'99 A4 1.8tqms