Whats up audi world!? I'm looking into buying a 92-95 bmw 5 series wagon. The only reason I'm turning away from it is because it is RWD. I live in the northeast where it snows. I'm afraid that the bmw wouldn't be practical during the winter season. With that said I like the audi c4 a6's!! Is the upkeep expensive? How difficult are they to work on?? How much more difficult is it to maintain a quattro vs a fwd?? How about in comparison to the bmw? Any and all input is greatly appreciated!

If you get decent snow tires and most of the road are normally plowed, the BMUU will be find. I have a 93 525IT aka as a Touring, and a 95 A6 Avant.

Never got stuck with the BMUU in snow. The ABS help in stopping on slippery road. No timing belt to change and no CV Boots to replace because they tore. The owners at Bimmerforums.com is more helpful solving problems, especially if you are a DIY. Why did I buy the Audi if I love my BMUU? I had $1600 to burn and the car was a one owner car and I like tinkering with cars with my brother whi is a big fan of Audis.

I believe those 5-series can be pretty reliable, and so can the C4. It mostly will come down to previous maintenance.
The quattro vs. fwd maintenance difference is not much. The rear diff can leak slightly on these C4's though.

No offense to the rwd bmw, but you will feel much more sure-footed in the snow or rain with the C4 quattro regardless of whether you get stuck or not. I imagine you know that, and that's almost a given, but just in case. My C4 quattro with snow tires is impressive. The only limitation being clearance. The rwd can be more sporting and will not plow forward (understeer) as easily as the C4.

My experience as a DIY'er so far has been good. There is quite a bit of engine bay space to get your hands around the motor.

Good luck!