Looking to purchase 2002 A4 or Newer and wondering about reliability on model years?

[snowchaser]

I am looking to possibly start looking for an A4 Avant and my neighbor has a 2002 (Is that the first year of this model run)? It is the 1.8T versus the newer 2.0. What were the issues on the 2002 model other than the coil problems? Is the 2003, or later much more reliable and when did the 2.0T come out? Is the 2.0T much better at low end torgue? I noticed that the 1.8 did not seem to have much engine braking or "Fun Factor" in the corners when downshifting? I did like the way the car drove very well and he only wanted 5K with 115,000 miles on it. Is it worth waiting for a later model one like 2004-2005?

[lyleswk]

My 2 cents:

Yes the B6 is the first year model of the series. The 2.0t didn't come until model year 2007. Reliability difference between your B5 (I think that's what it is) and the B6? Virtually identical mechanically, so there is no difference in reliability. I have just over 200K on mine and it has the normal stuff a ten year old car with 200K on it that you would expect.

As far as different driving experiences, yeah, the 2.0t has 25 to 30 more hp and torque, but you can easily get that much more out of the 1.8t via upgrades and spend much less than a 2007 or later model.

You probably need to ask your pocketbook the question

[BoxcuTTer]

I am going to jinx myself, but my '02 A4 3.0 has been pretty great. Both catalytic converters replaced under warranty. All coil packs replaced under recall. Cupholder is broken and the driver's side door wiring harness was shot and I had to repair. It is starting to go through oil at a pretty good rate, about 1Q per 1,500 miles - which Audi claims is acceptable. I bought it out of warranty with 29,000 miles and it now has 83,000.

I am told by my indy that the bushings are going and it will be about $1,400 to replace the control arms on all 4 corners.