My friend is thinking of getting an Acura CL. Please help me explain to her why the A4 Quattro is a much better car, especially in those icy roads in the coming winter months. Another friend wants to know what the repair record is like on the Audi (I guess she meant reliability), anyone? And I remember reading about the really good Audi dealer in Rockville Maryland or somewhere there, the one with the Aussie (good on ya mate) who owns an A4 himself. Where and what is it called? My friends are from the area.

I too was looking at the Acura CL before I found (and ultimately decided on) the A4. I was not keen on these points:(Please keep in mind I was looking at the 1998 model so if these options have changed, please ignore them)<p>1) Styling of the CL is nothing compared to the A4 (I especially don't like the slanted trunk but that is personal preference).<p>2) 200hp model (3.0 CL) model does not come in a 5-speed.<p>3) No quattro on CL, or traction control for that matter.<p>4) I remember reading that the climate control system is flakey on the CL (I guess I could say the same for the A4 but I have never used it).<p>5) No side airbags (safety is always important).<p>6) I like the 4 doors better since I occasionally have guests (Really, I DO!). Room is a little tight in the back of the A4 but it is better than having to lift the driver's seat and cram your guests in the back of a 2 door.<p>Please don't flame me but I can say my family has 2 Acuras (Lengend LS and 3.5TL) and we have had a very good experience with both of them. They are definitely more oriented to luxury than sport-luxury.<p>Just my $.02.<p>TGB 1999 1.8T qMS (almost in port)