I have an opportunity every now and again to drive my brother's 99 Corvette. I borrowed it for about a week last week while some insurance stuff was being done on the A4. I've driven the corvette numerous times before, including autocrossing....Don't get me wrong...this is one sweet automobile, and quality of workmanship as well as the comfort is vastly improved over the C4. But it stilll ain't as good as the audi....<br> I had to return the vetteabout a 150 mile trip) and I made it in about 2hr45min. But the whole time I was really watching for cops, because everyone is noticing a flashy car. When I got in my audi, the first thing I immediatly noticed(besides the 150hp deficit) was the solid noise the door makes when it closes. How well, even the standard seats support you. And how darn easily I could go fast and not be overly conspicious....I made it home in under 2 hours! Mind you I drove a little faster, but that was because the cops were pulling over vettes and porsches. <br> Don't get me wrong...If I had the extra 20K I'd probably get the vette(or maybe an S4..hmmm..) but road trips are a lot less stressful(and more comfortable) in the a4. <br> I have not had the opportunity to drive the a4 on a track yet, and I certainly don't expect the same type of performance, but those qualities are make what makes the a4 so great in normal driving circumstances. And yes, althought the c5 was grumbling along with twice as many cylinders, at 85 mph and only 1700 rpm, and the audi at the same speed about 3800...it doesen't matter.... the audi is quieter and the engine is smoother quieter...<br> Ok so maybe I'm just a little jealous...but I never would have guessed that I would appreciate such refinment and low profile ability until I was a little older(I'm 22). And we'll see whose happier this summer after a few thousand miles, when my brother and I drive with our girlfriends cross country...hmmmmm....the vette is a 2 seater and I can fit 3 women in mine......<p>Alex<br>99.5qms

(nt)