As a two-time BMW owner looking at a third, I thought I'd check out the new A4 and I was blown away by the total package (ride, build quality, value). I started looking at '99 leftovers but there was only one stick left. Then I found a MY2000 5 speed 2.8Q w/the sport package, etc. What a car! I really like the new dash layout, the in-dash CD and the ambient lighting is cool. I took it for a test drive on a drizzly day, pulled out a little too fast from the dealer lot and man those tires stuck as the acceleration pushed me into the seat. SOLD! No more fishtailing with the Bimmer. I still like the BMW bodies, and the sales/service staff are exceptional, but I am a happy convert. Plus its nice to be in a great car that isn't seen bought by as many yuppies.

Thanks for your post. I am going through the same delema, BMW vs Audi. BMW is pissing me off these days with their incredible price creap on the 3 series. I have owned 1 3 and 2 5 series, and they are great cars. But the price/value thing seems better on the Audi.

How would you compare the straight performance of the A4 vs the 328i on handling and power?

I had the same dilemma. The 328 is a beautiful car and it connects you to the road like few other sport sedans. But Quattro won out - the grip is SOLID under almost all road conditions. As the winter approaches in New England, I'm sure I will appreciate it even more.

On the flipside, I've heard some good comments about the traction control and stability systems on the BMW. People mention that it makes the car handle like an AWD. (almost) Anyone care to comment?

-Charlie
99.5 2.8qms

Yes, I had a '94 325IS with traction and it did really work under most situations. All you really need is enought grip to get going, which the traction does give you, except on the most extreme inclines. I have friend out in SLC who has a 540 and swares by the traction control, an they get a lot of snow! Rear drive makes the car lighter and more balanced, so you need to consider that as well.

Same dilema. For sheer sportiness, the BMW feels quicker probably because of the simple fact that it's a rear wheel drive. BMW's are great cars, and I'm not knocking them.

However, IMO the Audi was more balanced overall- the sport suspension is tight but not as rough as the 3 series.

Exterior styling is subjective. BMW's are more aggressive looking. Personally, I've liked the subtle and refined look of the A4 with the knowledge that I have power under the hood (2.8)

Good luck

POWER: The 328i felt significantly more powerful than my A4 2.8Q. It's very quick throughout the rev range, and I was driving an Automatic!! (My a4 is manual).

HANDLING: I'm not sure how the suspension differs from the coupe to the sedan, but the coupe had VERY tight suspension. I happen to like tight suspension, but some might consider it too tight. The steering is very tight (requires high effort). I happen to like that as well, but it's tough to compare the two steering systems.

If you have to make a decision between a 3 series and an A4, it all comes down to a couple of factors.. If you live where it snows often, the A4 obviously has a huge advantage. I also find the A4 more comfortable to be in.. For some reason the 3 series feels kind of cramped to me..

The a4 is definitely a better value as well.. But if you want to ultimate in sportiness (handling, power, etc)... The 3 is the choice.

Used to sell bmw 's, just bought an A4. During a sales seminar, compared several cars on the track as far as emergency handling, wet handling, accelaration and braking. The BMW Traction control is just as good as Quattro. The A4 handles just as well as the BMW, however the steering feel is not as good, but pretty close. I have owned BMW's for 30 years. My service experience with them has been terrible. I think Audi is putting a lot more thought into their cars, and I think so far that there build quality is better.( I shall see as the car accumulates more miles ). I was faced with the 328 vs A4 dilemma and decided on the A4 for those two reasons