I noticed a really large rpm difference between 3rd and 4th gear. It's about 1300 rpm! I found that especially annoying going up Vail Pass on I-70 in Colorado. In 3rd it redlines at about 85 mph, and then 4th drops too low to be effective. Does anyone know if that has been changed on later A4's, or if there are any different transmissions available? I was kinda disappointed, because my '90 Coupe Q 20V goes up these hills much faster, and so did my GTI VR6 (got up to 110 mph on that one).

I have ported heads, intake, cams and filter. I have much more usable power in the midrange than before (I also have the 2.8q 5sp. 12v).
Unfortunaltely, you either have to upgrade to get more power available or get a different A4 (1.8T+chip or 30v). Swapping your trans. would be at least as much cash as upping your power, I would imagine. I have considered going to the 6-speed trans but I have decided to keep the 5-speed for now and do increased displacement to add to the power gains I already have. Decided to keep the A4 rather than go to the S4. I love left foot braking at the track. ;-)
-Cathleen