I am considering purchasing an 99 A4 Avant Quattro 1.8T 5spd and have questions in 2 areas: 1. How's the Quattro system durability given it's only covered for 50k miles?<br>2. How quick is the car? I've read that the Quattro system can sap some power? Also, how can the Passat 1.8t 5spd have the same 0-60 of 8.3 if the Avant is 200 lbs heavier? Shouldn't the Passat be faster? Thanks in advance for any input.<br>

The old Quattros were very durable - only problem I ever had in 160,000 miles was the need for lubrication of the actuating mechanisms for the manually operated differential locks caused by lack of use. Also you have more CV joints and boots to look after than FWD. The new ones do not have the manually operated differential .locks but I expect they are equally as bullet-proof. Just watch those CV joint boots! Same applies to FWD, od course. As to performance, there is a slight weight penalty but I don't think it translates into much of a detriment to economy or performance. certainly you'll get off the line much faster.

Wouldn't worry about the quattro durability. As mentioned by Ian, there are extra CV joints and boots, but unless a boot gets torn, the joints shouldn't be a problem. Quattro is a well proven AWD system, and there are very few reports of trouble. Infact, my independant mechanic tells me that there is such a negligible difference, if any, between FWD and quattro (maintenence wise), that it's not at all an issue. As far as the 0-60 times go, I don't really know for sure. I do think that FWD cars have taller gearing than the quattro models, and that may be where the time is made up. The 1.8T is plenty quick for most people, but chipping will vastly improve performance. I would chip conservatively with the factory turbo though. Get the sports package!<p>Charles

The Passat wagon will come with the Quattro system and this "cheaper" car has a 100K mile/10 year warranty on the drivetrain compared to the more expensive Audi.... go figure. I'd buy the VW as you will be laughing at us Audi owners someday when the big bucks bills start rolling in.<br>