..

If I had to choose only one (I chose both on my A4, so this is purely hypothetical), I'd choose quattro for a few different reasons, not all of which fall exclusively into the "it makes driving more fun" category.

Quattro provides greater control in all kinds of driving conditions.That translates into a generally more enjoyable driving experience. It also means greater security and safety, and thus greatly enhances the "peace of mind" factor, especially in extreme conditions like snow. Also, for what it does it's a relative bargain. And anyone shopping for a used A4 will almost certainly want one with quattro, so it adds to resale value, if that's an important consideration for you.

If you've never driven a car equipped with quattro -- and I don't mean a car like a Subaru or a Volvo equipped with 90/10 AWD, or a 4x4 SUV, I mean a sedan with Audi quattro -- then you may not be able to appreciate what I'm talking about in terms of the handling characteristics that it imparts. Drive a quattro-equipped sedan in a tight turn, say a 270 degree ramp descending and leading onto a highway, and do something you might not ordinarily do: accelerate through it. All the way through it. If you've been driving FWD vehicles for most or all of your life, push it past what you think the usual limits are. I think you'll experience a feeling of control (and dare I say it, a thrill) you haven't experienced before in a sedan. FWD can't come close to that, period.

As for the sport suspension, it provides a tighter ride, more road feel, more response, more stability in the turns. The grippier tires that Audi supplies with it enhance that experience. I certainly adds to the fun factor. But how much fun the sport package would be with only FWD is hard to say; I never test drove a sport/FWD combination. There didn't seem to be much point in it, since I wasn't interested in that combo. I'm not even sure my dealer had such a car on the lot. I'd guess that there'd be a very noticeable loss of "fun" with only FWD.

These two features contribute different things. Together they're a great package. I wouldn't want to have to choose between them. But if I had to, I'd choose quattro for the reasons stated above.

Rick

.

Go to a dealer and try both options out.

Also, engine would make a difference here. The 2.8FWD has A(nti)S(slip)R(egulation) = traction control, which aids considerably when you overcook a manuever. The 1.8T FWD only has electronic differential lock...I'd go with quattro non-sport if I was getting a 1.8T. With the 2.8, it's something you'll have to decide by driving both. Quattro adds not only AWD, but also independent rear suspension, both of which may help if you push the limits of the car.

steve
30V FWDsport...

I miss my chipped FWD that thing could fly, it was also very sure footed never had a bad experience in foul weather, but when you gunned it the tires skid then with a sudden burst you shot off the line, you could feel the weight difference, with the Q its like 350 + 150 more for the Avant so I've been in both extremes. My new Avant Q with APR chip, which I just installed,( break in period was hell especially knowing how my chip would transform my driving experience) is solid its like you can feel how grounded the car is with the Q, it never chirps, but it still moves fast. APR's chips transformed both my cars & have made them & me happy everytime I drive. So in conclusion if you want that extra weight advantage & your not in area that it snows most of the year get FWD it was more enjoyable for me, but if your worried about resale, Q is higher, and you get a lot of snow, go with the tried & true Quattro.
GO APR