Everyone talks about the great Audi warranty, but I don't here anything about the cost after the warranty. Does the V6 engine require any serious services prior to 100,000 mark? Bimmers and M-Bs do not, so I was wondering. Any thoughts on the same subject regarding the S4?

One more thought, I have owned several BMWs and most recently a 10 yr old M-B coupe. You don't see alot of older Audis on the road, why not? Do they hold up or not?

The main expense would be for a timing belt change.

Coming from a family who has owned seven Audis, I have seen plenty of high mileage Audis. Audi drivetrains are comparably bullet-proof. If there are repairs after warranty, they are just as costly as BMW and M-B repairs.

One reason you don't see many older Audis on the road in comparison to BMW or M-B is because they sell at a lower volume. Since they make up a smaller percentage of total cars, then you are less likely to see them. M-B has a larger percentage of diesels, which tend to last longer. M-B owners are probably a bit more conservative than owners of other German cars and they are more expensive, so people will tend to keep them longer to maximize their "investment".

I've got an A4 and was thinking about getting an old M-B coupe (89 300CE) as a second car. Any experiences with the upkeep on it? I've heard differing opinions. Sorry for the off topic request... I'm a new A4 owner 1997 1.8TQ (bought used).

BB

BTW I would not consider the timing belt change an out of ordinary procedure on the Audi: you have to do it on Hondas, Acuras, Toyotas (I think), and many other cars, so while not cheap, it's also not unique to Audi....