Reason I'm asking is that before buying my '98.5 A4 Avant, I had a '90 Coupe Quattro. This car fitted with 4 185/70X15 Gislaved Norfrost tires was an absolute mountain goat in snow. I never had a problem driving in heavy snow - was able to go up steep hills with up to a foot of snow wihtout a real problem.

The Avant has been quite different - I have 4 195/65X15 Nokian Hakkapelitta (sp?) snows on it, and in comparison the car is awful. MUCH more prone to skidding in snow/ice than the old Coupe. I am hoping it is the tires, but the Nokians have a reputation as being about the best out there.

Was wondering what other folks experience has been who went from previous Quattro models to the A4. For info, the Avant has the Sport suspension and 30V V-6. Both cars had 5-spd manual trannies.

1) A4 is a 300 lb heavier car.

2) Wider winter tires on the A4 so less snow traction.

3) No locking rear diff with Quattro IV.