On a 1.8T (sedan) I know about the SP8000's on 16" rims and the 20mm drop, but what about the "stiffer suspension"? Different struts and/or springs? What about sway bars? How much bigger are they?

I like the ride of the Sport package, but I don't know if I can wait 3 months (according to my dealer) for a 1.8TQMS with conv, cold weather and sport to arrive here in MA. I'm thinking I might settle on a non-sport and use the all-seasons for the winter, then upgrade wheels in the spring time. However, I'm wondering what other suspension changes are involved in the sport package, and if they are duplicated better in the aftermarket. For example, would I want to change out the sways to aftermarket units EVEN IF I WENT WITH THE SPORT PACKAGE?

It includes lower stiffer springs, stiffer shocks, a larger sway bar (front I think, can't remember), 16" wheels, high performance summer tires, and the sport steering wheel. First off, I'm a little surprised that you can't find one in MA, the packages you're describing are quite popular and there are plenty of Audi dealers in the area, have you called around? Unless you plan on getting more agressive with your mods then the stock sport package is hard to beat, it's comfortable and offers sufficient clearence for Boston roads, while providing good handling. There are sway bars available, and plenty of aftermarket upgrades, but plan on spending money. Only you know your goals for the handling and comfort on your car, as well as your budget.

Regards,
Rodney

'99 A4 1.8tqms

I know what the "Sport" swaybars are because I upgraded my car to the "Sport" package suspension (springs/shocks/sways). Here's the info:

Stock Swaybars (at least on my '97 1.8Tqm):
Front: 28mm hollow
Rear: 12mm solid

Sport Swaybars:
Front: 28mm solid
Rear: 16mm solid

<A HREF="Mailto:andy_hedin@hotmail.com">Andy Hedin</A>
'97 A4 1.8Tqms, Garrett 1.0 Bar, ABT Filter, Borla Exhaust, European Headlights, more...

I was in a similar position 2 years ago, having to wait months for a special-order A4 with sport or to buy a non-sport off the lot. I also felt that, with winter here (in Boston), I'd be better off with the 15" all-seasons. And I hadn't driven the sport suspension and was told it was only for "aggressive" drivers. So I went for the non-sport. Well, I was so disappointed in the feel of the suspension that I eventually upgraded a year-and-a-half later! (Just like Andy, and with his encouragement and help.) I still have the 15" all-seasons, but they will probably get upgraded next spring. Anyway, it made a *huge* difference to my satisfaction with the car.

It would have been better and cheaper to have gotten the sport package and a set of winter tires (preferably with a set of 15" wheels).

But these decisions are highly personal. Some folks love the non-sport suspension, some love the OEM sport, others aren't satisfied with anything but an expensive aftermarket set-up.

Poethius
1998 1.8Tqm (+ sport shocks, springs, and swaybars)

I didn't have many cars to choose from when buying my 99.5 "leftover". The Jaspis green one that I got is great but no sports pkg. I spoke to Audi of Bernardsville and he's pricing up an after the fact sports pkg. I'm afraid to hear the numbers. Anyone out there do this and care to share what it cost??
Thanks, Eric 99.5 2.8 QM OMP stut tower brace. Jaspis

Thanks all for the input and info.
Andy, are you sure about the front bars?
I would think that if they were the same size, the hollow bar would be on the sport package. Isn't hollow stronger than solid?

I got a quote from Clair Parts Express for $1550 for new OEM springs, shocks, and swaybars. That's without installation and alignment, which could easily run $500 more. It's also without 16" wheels, Z-rated tires, and sport steering wheel. But there are (slightly) used parts available in the Classifieds, there are aftermarket parts (which can be better), and some people can do some or all of the installation. So there are some more practical alternatives!

Poethius

nt