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Has anyone any informed comment about the reliability of these, particularly the engine, the transmission, and the electrics?
I'm considering flogging a Mondeo Estate, 06, Ghia X, 2.2 TDi with 35k miles, to pick one up. It would mean getting an Audi three years older, at least, and with 90k or more on the clock.
Am I mad?
I'm considering flogging a Mondeo Estate, 06, Ghia X, 2.2 TDi with 35k miles, to pick one up. It would mean getting an Audi three years older, at least, and with 90k or more on the clock.
Am I mad?
In reply to Arthur.B:
No necessarily - Audi's are pretty well put together and the interiors are a cut above most. I had an 11 year old A4 Avant until recently, which I loved.
Main downside is they are savegely expensive if anything goes wrong or needs replacing.
Check out Honest John's website
No necessarily - Audi's are pretty well put together and the interiors are a cut above most. I had an 11 year old A4 Avant until recently, which I loved.
Main downside is they are savegely expensive if anything goes wrong or needs replacing.
Check out Honest John's website
In reply to Arthur.B:
Yes. The Mondeo handles better, rides better, goes better,has much more space and doesn't make you look like a c*ck.
So the Audi has 4 wheel drive. Which is great if you regularly drive on snow and ice, or pull horse boxes out of fields (and along roads much the the annoyance of other drivers, apart from caravaners). But if you don, then you don't need 4WD.
Andy F
> > Am I mad?
Yes. The Mondeo handles better, rides better, goes better,has much more space and doesn't make you look like a c*ck.
So the Audi has 4 wheel drive. Which is great if you regularly drive on snow and ice, or pull horse boxes out of fields (and along roads much the the annoyance of other drivers, apart from caravaners). But if you don, then you don't need 4WD.
Andy F
In reply to Arthur.B:
Possibly? what would be the overall benefit of such an exchange? the Mondeo is a good reliable well built vehicle, you probably got another 65000mls before any major component replacement..does everthing the Audi does possibly more (ghia x 2.2) perhaps without the kudos that about it..
> Has anyone any informed comment about the reliability of these, particularly the engine, the transmission, and the electrics?
>
> I'm considering flogging a Mondeo Estate, 06, Ghia X, 2.2 TDi with 35k miles, to pick one up. It would mean getting an Audi three years older, at least, and with 90k or more on the clock.
>
> Am I mad?
>
> I'm considering flogging a Mondeo Estate, 06, Ghia X, 2.2 TDi with 35k miles, to pick one up. It would mean getting an Audi three years older, at least, and with 90k or more on the clock.
>
> Am I mad?
Possibly? what would be the overall benefit of such an exchange? the Mondeo is a good reliable well built vehicle, you probably got another 65000mls before any major component replacement..does everthing the Audi does possibly more (ghia x 2.2) perhaps without the kudos that about it..
In reply to Arthur.B: I would say go for an A6. Much better interior, more space then the mondeo and you should pick up at 2.5tdi for a similar price to the A4 which sorts out the performance gap.
In reply to Dave Morrison:
I don't need the space anymore; my eldest two are now late teens and the days of needing to cram 5 of us in to go off on camping trips have ended.
Plus the 2.5 is at least as thirsty as the ford 2.2 which barely manages 30mpg for urban use, so the 1.9 (not available on the A6) is a better option.
I confess that the Quattro bit is middle age cockitis rearing its head. :=}
I don't need the space anymore; my eldest two are now late teens and the days of needing to cram 5 of us in to go off on camping trips have ended.
Plus the 2.5 is at least as thirsty as the ford 2.2 which barely manages 30mpg for urban use, so the 1.9 (not available on the A6) is a better option.
I confess that the Quattro bit is middle age cockitis rearing its head. :=}
In reply to Arthur.B: I found the quattro models drove a bit better, had 7 test drives before I settled on A6 2.7tdi. Found it much better than Mondeo, Merc, Saab, BMW 5 and A4, which I found had an almost female drivng position (tight for space, pedals small and close together) though this set up is on models made after 2005 I believe.
In reply to Arthur.B:
Bollocks. What the bloke says up above about 4wd just being for horseboxes and snow is simply not true. Quattro does drive better and will get you out of trouble if you CAN get out of trouble. Of course people will say that you shouldn't be in trouble in the first place, but it's more about increaseing your safety margin. They grip better in ALL conditions e.g. rain. I'm not sure but last time I checked we get quite a bit of that in this country. Plus if you do go skiing or anywhere with snow which is reasonably likely seeing as you are on UKDating, it means you don't have a rear wheel drive car which is just about the worst you can get in those conditions... Don't get mixed up with the whole new "audi drivers are cocks" trend... they are good solid cars and will last and last. Yes they are expensive to repair but then if you pick a good one and don't need to repair it then you don't have a problem...
> I confess that the Quattro bit is middle age cockitis rearing its head. :=}
Bollocks. What the bloke says up above about 4wd just being for horseboxes and snow is simply not true. Quattro does drive better and will get you out of trouble if you CAN get out of trouble. Of course people will say that you shouldn't be in trouble in the first place, but it's more about increaseing your safety margin. They grip better in ALL conditions e.g. rain. I'm not sure but last time I checked we get quite a bit of that in this country. Plus if you do go skiing or anywhere with snow which is reasonably likely seeing as you are on UKDating, it means you don't have a rear wheel drive car which is just about the worst you can get in those conditions... Don't get mixed up with the whole new "audi drivers are cocks" trend... they are good solid cars and will last and last. Yes they are expensive to repair but then if you pick a good one and don't need to repair it then you don't have a problem...
In reply to Arthur.B: Ss mentioned by others the A6 has more space. I have had a 97 TDI 2.4 now for 8 years and done 60K miles in it (total mileage is about 135K). A far better car than a Ford. The Quattro is better on tyre wear - you are putting the power through four footprints rather than two. OK you don't NEED four wheel drive, but if it's available for the same price as another car then why not. Fuel economy doesn't suffer. Tyres are more expensive. A decent diesel engine like the Audis will last 250K or more without lots of attention. Seats can feel hard but are good for long journeys. Buy it.
In reply to mike kann:
I'll preface this by saying that I'm on my second Impreza, so I clearly have nothing against 4WD but I'm intrigued as to how you feel Quattro increases grip in all conditions? Surely, all things being equal you have the same contact area of rubber on the road, so you have the same amount of grip for everything apart from severe acceleration. So for braking, cornering and avoiding accidents I don't see whay you'd be better off. Certainly for snow or very slippy conditions the 4WD car will have better grip to accelerate but for the type of driving you'd normally be buying a diesel A4 Avant for I wouldn't have thought that you'd notice the difference.
I have an Impreza wagon because it's quick, carries my stuff, deals with snow well (when fitted with snow tyres) and with the suspension tweaked as mine is it'll do a wee touch of power oversteer out of corners, so I get the handling fun of RWD but with the ability to drive over hill roads in the snow. I wouldn't ever claim it was more likely to avoid an accident than a similar performance FWD car though, it doesn't brake any better, nor corner any harder off the throttle.
What's your thoughts?
I'll preface this by saying that I'm on my second Impreza, so I clearly have nothing against 4WD but I'm intrigued as to how you feel Quattro increases grip in all conditions? Surely, all things being equal you have the same contact area of rubber on the road, so you have the same amount of grip for everything apart from severe acceleration. So for braking, cornering and avoiding accidents I don't see whay you'd be better off. Certainly for snow or very slippy conditions the 4WD car will have better grip to accelerate but for the type of driving you'd normally be buying a diesel A4 Avant for I wouldn't have thought that you'd notice the difference.
I have an Impreza wagon because it's quick, carries my stuff, deals with snow well (when fitted with snow tyres) and with the suspension tweaked as mine is it'll do a wee touch of power oversteer out of corners, so I get the handling fun of RWD but with the ability to drive over hill roads in the snow. I wouldn't ever claim it was more likely to avoid an accident than a similar performance FWD car though, it doesn't brake any better, nor corner any harder off the throttle.
What's your thoughts?
In reply to Robin Laidlaw:
He hasn't got any
Crashes in low friction environments - rain/snow are usually caused when you slide whilst braking - and 4WD helps you how in this position ? I remember that from an issue of Performance Car years ago when some Staff writer binned a 406 X4 in snow - it had traction - but when you brake - he was in a ditch
> (In reply to mike kann)
> I'll preface this by saying that I'm on my second Impreza, so I clearly have nothing against 4WD but I'm intrigued as to how you feel Quattro increases grip in all conditions? Surely, all things being equal you have the same contact area of rubber on the road, so you have the same amount of grip for everything apart from severe acceleration. So for braking, cornering and avoiding accidents I don't see whay you'd be better off. Certainly for snow or very slippy conditions the 4WD car will have better grip to accelerate but for the type of driving you'd normally be buying a diesel A4 Avant for I wouldn't have thought that you'd notice the difference.
> I have an Impreza wagon because it's quick, carries my stuff, deals with snow well (when fitted with snow tyres) and with the suspension tweaked as mine is it'll do a wee touch of power oversteer out of corners, so I get the handling fun of RWD but with the ability to drive over hill roads in the snow. I wouldn't ever claim it was more likely to avoid an accident than a similar performance FWD car though, it doesn't brake any better, nor corner any harder off the throttle.
> What's your thoughts?
> I'll preface this by saying that I'm on my second Impreza, so I clearly have nothing against 4WD but I'm intrigued as to how you feel Quattro increases grip in all conditions? Surely, all things being equal you have the same contact area of rubber on the road, so you have the same amount of grip for everything apart from severe acceleration. So for braking, cornering and avoiding accidents I don't see whay you'd be better off. Certainly for snow or very slippy conditions the 4WD car will have better grip to accelerate but for the type of driving you'd normally be buying a diesel A4 Avant for I wouldn't have thought that you'd notice the difference.
> I have an Impreza wagon because it's quick, carries my stuff, deals with snow well (when fitted with snow tyres) and with the suspension tweaked as mine is it'll do a wee touch of power oversteer out of corners, so I get the handling fun of RWD but with the ability to drive over hill roads in the snow. I wouldn't ever claim it was more likely to avoid an accident than a similar performance FWD car though, it doesn't brake any better, nor corner any harder off the throttle.
> What's your thoughts?
He hasn't got any
Crashes in low friction environments - rain/snow are usually caused when you slide whilst braking - and 4WD helps you how in this position ? I remember that from an issue of Performance Car years ago when some Staff writer binned a 406 X4 in snow - it had traction - but when you brake - he was in a ditch
In reply to Robin Laidlaw: I'm talking about 4wd's ability to put down power to all corners, and hence the ability to continue to put power down in a slide to pull out of it. This will work in the wet as well as on snow or indeed dry roads. Unless you are very proficient and expecting to slide, a rear wheel drive car will put you through a hedge quite easily. Yes FWD has a similar effect but I definately prefer 4wd, having owned all 3 tyoes at similar powers of engine, size and weight... Of course as you say the grip is no different when you are not sliding, it's when things go pearshaped that it counts, i.e. when you really need it. RWD just kicks your ass if you're not prepared...
In reply to dunc56: Steady tiger. I think you have just given a clue as to why the crashes occur - you just simply do not brake heavily in these conditions. Come on, as a reader of performance car you should know that...
In reply to Arthur.B:
If it's the 130 PD engine then I've got the same engine in my Seat. The only problem I've got is clogged VNT turbo vanes. This is down to how the car has been driven. Test for it by flooring it up a steady hill on the motorway or other fast road - if after a bit of full throttle the engine management light comes on and the car slows down.
I think these engines are generally well thought of. But so are those TDCIs.
I think you are mad to change a car that's running fine for another one with the risk that entails. If there's something wrong with the Mondeo then maybe.
If it's the 130 PD engine then I've got the same engine in my Seat. The only problem I've got is clogged VNT turbo vanes. This is down to how the car has been driven. Test for it by flooring it up a steady hill on the motorway or other fast road - if after a bit of full throttle the engine management light comes on and the car slows down.
I think these engines are generally well thought of. But so are those TDCIs.
I think you are mad to change a car that's running fine for another one with the risk that entails. If there's something wrong with the Mondeo then maybe.
In reply to mike kann: The argument is, why carry another 100kg of driveshafts diffs etc and lose 5% MPG from friction, all for the 1 time in a year when you actually need 4WD. Audis are renowned for understeer anyway aren't they ? So it would be a very FWD experience.
Love the argument that 4WD saves tyres
I'm with the keep the Mondeo gang. If you;re having a mid-life crisis get a fun second car.
Love the argument that 4WD saves tyres
I'm with the keep the Mondeo gang. If you;re having a mid-life crisis get a fun second car.
In reply to Arthur.B:
If you can find one, you can probably pick up a younger and better specced Octavia Estate ( Elegance or L&K) for the same price as the Audi. It uses basically the same engine and running gear anyway.
The key factor might be actually finding one - as Octavia owners tend to hang on to a good thing and feel smug about it.
Had my Octavia for 6 years from new, and have no intentions of replacing it for at least another 3 years! Servicing & Spares are somewhat cheaper than for the equivalent Audi or VW - and some parts that have been fitted to mine have actually carried the Audi logo!
If you can find one, you can probably pick up a younger and better specced Octavia Estate ( Elegance or L&K) for the same price as the Audi. It uses basically the same engine and running gear anyway.
The key factor might be actually finding one - as Octavia owners tend to hang on to a good thing and feel smug about it.
Had my Octavia for 6 years from new, and have no intentions of replacing it for at least another 3 years! Servicing & Spares are somewhat cheaper than for the equivalent Audi or VW - and some parts that have been fitted to mine have actually carried the Audi logo!
In reply to dunc56: I don't know whether A4's are particularly prone to Understeer or not - my UR quattro certainly wasn't, but then it's a totally different car. And having driven that in all conditions it was by far the best car I've ever driven. For example it easily went up the Sella pass with a couple of inches of snow on the ground with snow tyres but no chains, I doubt your Mondeo would get very far. Now would my old SAAB, or BMW.
I get what you are saying about the one time in the year, but I personally think that if you are in trouble and you CAN accelerate out of it, (i.e. the bother is not caused by you braking too hard because you've not left yourself enough room) then you have the best chance of doing that in a AWD car. And that sort of trouble can present itself in any conditions, not just snow. But if you want to put that down to a midlife crisis then that's your issue...
I get what you are saying about the one time in the year, but I personally think that if you are in trouble and you CAN accelerate out of it, (i.e. the bother is not caused by you braking too hard because you've not left yourself enough room) then you have the best chance of doing that in a AWD car. And that sort of trouble can present itself in any conditions, not just snow. But if you want to put that down to a midlife crisis then that's your issue...
In reply to mike kann:
Your project Quattro may be a different deal due to more power and more agressive suspension set-up but I'm afraid I remain sceptical that a standard spec A4 avant quattro will do anything but understeer no matter how overambitious you get and since the only time when the "floor it and let it drag you through" approach might be appropriate is when the back end steps out I don't see the benefit for cornering. If you are understeering, you just want to be backing off to tuck the front end in and steering, the quattro system just won't ever transfer enough power to the back to get the rear end to swing round and save you.
From my own experience I certainly buy that 4WD drive pays for sporting driving when you want to deliberately get the car to slide through corners or to get the power down very early and it works for slippery surfaces, but for avoiding a crash I just don't see it, regardless of the surface. Driving a quick 4wd car in snow on summer tyres shows this up very quickly, you soon realise that yes you can get moving more easily, and yes you can climb hills but your heart is in your mouth when it comes crashing home that you certainly can't stop or turn any better than in a 2WD car, you can just be going faster when you find that out...
To the OP - I'd stick with the Mondeo.
Your project Quattro may be a different deal due to more power and more agressive suspension set-up but I'm afraid I remain sceptical that a standard spec A4 avant quattro will do anything but understeer no matter how overambitious you get and since the only time when the "floor it and let it drag you through" approach might be appropriate is when the back end steps out I don't see the benefit for cornering. If you are understeering, you just want to be backing off to tuck the front end in and steering, the quattro system just won't ever transfer enough power to the back to get the rear end to swing round and save you.
From my own experience I certainly buy that 4WD drive pays for sporting driving when you want to deliberately get the car to slide through corners or to get the power down very early and it works for slippery surfaces, but for avoiding a crash I just don't see it, regardless of the surface. Driving a quick 4wd car in snow on summer tyres shows this up very quickly, you soon realise that yes you can get moving more easily, and yes you can climb hills but your heart is in your mouth when it comes crashing home that you certainly can't stop or turn any better than in a 2WD car, you can just be going faster when you find that out...
To the OP - I'd stick with the Mondeo.
In reply to andy farnell:
Ha ha, I'm sorry mate but what a load of tosh! Since when does a Mondeo do anything that you list better than any Audi? The Audi is a far superior vehicle in every way you list. Of course, you're entitled to your opinion, apart from in this case the entire motoring industry/press/experts and most of the population would disagree with you
and as far as looking like a cock is concerned? - Mondeo...Audi...not sure there's much in it, neither are particularly offensive in the looking like a cock department.
For example:
MX5 with a bold bloke driving, Hairdresser in Audi TT, etc = c*ck
Audi Estate = Nothing??? Just a reliable understated Car?
> (In reply to Arthur.B)
> [...]
>
> Yes. The Mondeo handles better, rides better, goes better,has much more space and doesn't make you look like a c*ck.
>
> So the Audi has 4 wheel drive. Which is great if you regularly drive on snow and ice, or pull horse boxes out of fields (and along roads much the the annoyance of other drivers, apart from caravaners). But if you don, then you don't need 4WD.
>
> Andy F
> [...]
>
> Yes. The Mondeo handles better, rides better, goes better,has much more space and doesn't make you look like a c*ck.
>
> So the Audi has 4 wheel drive. Which is great if you regularly drive on snow and ice, or pull horse boxes out of fields (and along roads much the the annoyance of other drivers, apart from caravaners). But if you don, then you don't need 4WD.
>
> Andy F
Ha ha, I'm sorry mate but what a load of tosh! Since when does a Mondeo do anything that you list better than any Audi? The Audi is a far superior vehicle in every way you list. Of course, you're entitled to your opinion, apart from in this case the entire motoring industry/press/experts and most of the population would disagree with you
and as far as looking like a cock is concerned? - Mondeo...Audi...not sure there's much in it, neither are particularly offensive in the looking like a cock department.
For example:
MX5 with a bold bloke driving, Hairdresser in Audi TT, etc = c*ck
Audi Estate = Nothing??? Just a reliable understated Car?
In reply to Robin Laidlaw:
I only drive quickly on motorways, so the previous 10 or so posts have gone right over my head. I've never taken a corner fast enough to notice under or oversteer, and likely never will.
Further posts about the reliability of that specific engine, the Quattro transmission in general, or A4 electrics are still welcome.
> To the OP - I'd stick with the Mondeo.
I only drive quickly on motorways, so the previous 10 or so posts have gone right over my head. I've never taken a corner fast enough to notice under or oversteer, and likely never will.
Further posts about the reliability of that specific engine, the Quattro transmission in general, or A4 electrics are still welcome.
In reply to dunc56:
I'd sort of agree with this^
I live in the country and do get snowed in a few days each year, the 4wd does come in handy at that time of the year.
That said, I got by fine when I had a 2wd Golf...
There are times when 4wd is useful, but those times don't come up often enough to cancel out the minus points you've mentioned.
The only reason I have 4wd on my car is because I bought a used car and by doing that you often have to compromise on the spec - my car was the nearest spec'ed to what I wanted, but would have happily paid a bit more for a non-4wd one.
I also test drove a 2wd version of my car with 30bhp less, back to back with the car I bought. The less powerful car didn't feel any slower, in fact if anything it maybe felt a tad faster(!).
> (In reply to mike kann) The argument is, why carry another 100kg of driveshafts diffs etc and lose 5% MPG from friction, all for the 1 time in a year when you actually need 4WD. Audis are renowned for understeer anyway aren't they ? So it would be a very FWD experience.
>
>
I'd sort of agree with this^
I live in the country and do get snowed in a few days each year, the 4wd does come in handy at that time of the year.
That said, I got by fine when I had a 2wd Golf...
There are times when 4wd is useful, but those times don't come up often enough to cancel out the minus points you've mentioned.
The only reason I have 4wd on my car is because I bought a used car and by doing that you often have to compromise on the spec - my car was the nearest spec'ed to what I wanted, but would have happily paid a bit more for a non-4wd one.
I also test drove a 2wd version of my car with 30bhp less, back to back with the car I bought. The less powerful car didn't feel any slower, in fact if anything it maybe felt a tad faster(!).
In reply to Robin Laidlaw: Hang on a tick there, if you are driving in snow, and driving quickly without snow tyres you need your head checked. Whether thats in a FWD, RWD or AWD. My point has never been that you will benefit under breaking/driving with inappropriate tyres. I know from my current Subaru that if I slide on a wet/greasy snow, that if I brake I am doomed. If I maintain the throttle the car will right itself. However this is all a slightly moot point as the OP says he doesn't drive quickly and has never slid. So not much point in going further down this road...
In reply to Arthur.B:
I have the VW equivalent in my Passat and find it a great engine. (not 4WD however), but it's the 130 TDi. With the 6spd box, it's giving me an overall consumption of 50mpg, which is a good mix of very short, inefficient trips and longer, cruising ones.
The only time it has ever failed to start first time for me was last week when the battery finally gave out. I highly recommend it.
Try asking here for further advice:
http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=24
I have the VW equivalent in my Passat and find it a great engine. (not 4WD however), but it's the 130 TDi. With the 6spd box, it's giving me an overall consumption of 50mpg, which is a good mix of very short, inefficient trips and longer, cruising ones.
The only time it has ever failed to start first time for me was last week when the battery finally gave out. I highly recommend it.
Try asking here for further advice:
http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=24
In reply to mike kann:
Nah - come on the discussion is fun ! Love the way you are on about an ur quattro - as someone said - that's a world away from a repmobile midlife crisis keeping up with the joneses mobile
> (In reply to Robin Laidlaw) Hang on a tick there, if you are driving in snow, and driving quickly without snow tyres you need your head checked. Whether thats in a FWD, RWD or AWD. My point has never been that you will benefit under breaking/driving with inappropriate tyres. I know from my current Subaru that if I slide on a wet/greasy snow, that if I brake I am doomed. If I maintain the throttle the car will right itself. However this is all a slightly moot point as the OP says he doesn't drive quickly and has never slid. So not much point in going further down this road...
Nah - come on the discussion is fun ! Love the way you are on about an ur quattro - as someone said - that's a world away from a repmobile midlife crisis keeping up with the joneses mobile
In reply to monkey1: Hmm, Mondeo 2.2 tdi 156 bph. Audi A4 130 bhp. Interior space, ride, handling all better in the Mondeo (not just me who thinks this - check the rags). People buy the Audi for the image and the 4WD, not because it's the 'better car'.
Andy F
Andy F
In reply to dunc56: Course it is - I think I said that myself didn't I? A Subaru Impreza if far closer to a midlife-crisis car (even if it's a Normally aspirated one) but as I said it works in that too. Maybe the OP should be looking at one of those instead - at least he'd have some fun in it...
In reply to monkey1: See this: http://www.parkers.co.uk/cars/reviews/ford/mondeo-estate-2000.aspx? and this: http://www.parkers.co.uk/cars/reviews/audi/a4-avant-2001.aspx? for the cars in the quoted age range.
I know what I'd go for (and I don't own either).
Andy F
I know what I'd go for (and I don't own either).
Andy F
In reply to andy farnell:
Mmmmmm....Boot space eh. I've heard the latest Daewoo has brilliant boot space....must be a better Car then!
I'd say engineering wise an Audi is far superior to a Ford, IMO
Mmmmmm....Boot space eh. I've heard the latest Daewoo has brilliant boot space....must be a better Car then!
I'd say engineering wise an Audi is far superior to a Ford, IMO
In reply to mike kann:
As far as Mondeo vs older Audi is concerned image wise, the Mondeo implies that you just wanted a decent large car whereas the Audi does imply that you care about the badge, but that's offset a bit by having an older one. Best just go with what makes you smile most, cars cost too much to not have the one YOU like the most.
> (In reply to dunc56) Course it is - I think I said that myself didn't I? A Subaru Impreza if far closer to a midlife-crisis car (even if it's a Normally aspirated one)
Absolutely, Impreza's have a dreadful image, particularly now that old ones have become affordable to the boy racer brigade. I like to kid myself that mine being a wagon makes it more acceptable but to be honest I think once it's got a scoop on the bonnet the damage is done. I love driving it way too much to give a stuff though, so there we are. I don't think Audi's really have quite the same image problem as the only ones that would appeal to the Halfords crowd would be things like S3s, which are too dear and you can't fit a big spoiler on the back.As far as Mondeo vs older Audi is concerned image wise, the Mondeo implies that you just wanted a decent large car whereas the Audi does imply that you care about the badge, but that's offset a bit by having an older one. Best just go with what makes you smile most, cars cost too much to not have the one YOU like the most.
In reply to Arthur.B: I am loving my A4 Quattro. The grip is incredible, still not managed to get any warning lights to come on going round corners!! Mine is a slightly newer 2.0Tdi 170 bhp whick flies!!!)
I have never driven 4wd drive before and I truly am gobsmacked with the grip)
I have never driven 4wd drive before and I truly am gobsmacked with the grip)
In reply to Arthur.B:
I have an A4 Avant 1.9 Tdi but not Quattro. It's 10 years old, I've had it since new and it now has 87k on the clock. I have never had a single fault with engine, transmission or electrics. It's been a great car and still is.
I have an A4 Avant 1.9 Tdi but not Quattro. It's 10 years old, I've had it since new and it now has 87k on the clock. I have never had a single fault with engine, transmission or electrics. It's been a great car and still is.
In reply to mike kann:
the mondeo is a front wheel drive car is it not...
in snowy conditions in the alps the last few years i've just got out and put the 30 quid snow chains on my focus cmax tdci (it's a bit inconvenient i know)the car then goes pretty much anywhere a(road going) 4 wheel drive would go even with 5 on board and a roof load of skis and it tends to stop as well, the back end does tend to slide a little on hairpins but the front will pull it straight almost immeadiately you give it the gas...
the worst car for alpine winter driving is a BMW you see them lining the sides of the roads whenever there is a hint of snow especially at the bottom of any slight slope
> (In reply to Arthur.B)
> Plus if you do go skiing or anywhere with snow which is reasonably likely seeing as you are on UKDating, it means you don't have a rear wheel drive car which is just about the worst you can get in
> Plus if you do go skiing or anywhere with snow which is reasonably likely seeing as you are on UKDating, it means you don't have a rear wheel drive car which is just about the worst you can get in
the mondeo is a front wheel drive car is it not...
in snowy conditions in the alps the last few years i've just got out and put the 30 quid snow chains on my focus cmax tdci (it's a bit inconvenient i know)the car then goes pretty much anywhere a(road going) 4 wheel drive would go even with 5 on board and a roof load of skis and it tends to stop as well, the back end does tend to slide a little on hairpins but the front will pull it straight almost immeadiately you give it the gas...
the worst car for alpine winter driving is a BMW you see them lining the sides of the roads whenever there is a hint of snow especially at the bottom of any slight slope
In reply to Paul Bowen: Yes - I know. I was talking about the A4 but it turns out that's FWD - I thought is was RWD. I'll shut up now Agree about BMW's. Totally rubbish in snow...
In reply to Arthur.B:
how long do you intend to keep your new acquisition for ? Check the residuals after this period as well. It will give you an idea as to what the resale values might be when you decide to offload?
An Audi/ BMW might last longer but they are not as practical as the Mondeo.
also look as petrol models as well as diesel as there isnt quite the advantage there once was ?
Petrol BMW's will go to 300 000m with good servicing and considerate driving. doubt if a Mondeo will go as far if you are considering seeing it to the end.
how long do you intend to keep your new acquisition for ? Check the residuals after this period as well. It will give you an idea as to what the resale values might be when you decide to offload?
An Audi/ BMW might last longer but they are not as practical as the Mondeo.
also look as petrol models as well as diesel as there isnt quite the advantage there once was ?
Petrol BMW's will go to 300 000m with good servicing and considerate driving. doubt if a Mondeo will go as far if you are considering seeing it to the end.
In reply to diablo:
30km? That's not very far
> Petrol BMW's will go to 300 000m with good servicing and considerate driving. doubt if a Mondeo will go as far if you are considering seeing it to the end.
30km? That's not very far
In reply to diablo: Actually you could have picked holes in my Maths there as well, should have been 300km! Doh...
In reply to dunc56:
> Love the argument that 4WD saves tyres
>
Our Landcruiser (don't worry I'm reformed now and have sold it on) managed about 40K on it's first set of tyres.>
In reply to Arthur.B: I'd get a 130 brake Golf or Passat, unless you want, just for this once, to have the QUATTRO label on your car...
In which, I know where you are. One day, I will! Though I want an urQuattro, or the evo model, the Sport.
In which, I know where you are. One day, I will! Though I want an urQuattro, or the evo model, the Sport.
In reply to Tim, the Grey: I had a golf TDI estate before my A6 and there is no comparison whatsoever, the golf was simply shite compared to the Audi. I've a mate who has a 57 Mondeo, again no comparison, that's com ing from him. The Audi haters need to get behind the wheel of a good 'un before they spout off. My bro has a 525i again, in his opinion no doubt which is the best car to drive.
OP- You want it, so get it, I doubt you'll regret it.
OP- You want it, so get it, I doubt you'll regret it.
In reply to Dave Morrison: P.S the rhyme was unintended.
In reply to Tim, the Grey: DOOO IT! But don't get the sport - just not as pretty to look at - all angular and weird and the headlamps are not right. Get an RR engined one and be done with it... I have a WR and the Turbo lag is a killer...
In reply to Dave Morrison:
did you know that a few yearsback BMW made a 520i and 525i Touring 4x4. They are now quite old and very rare as they were only made for a couple of years (?) I've only ever see one for sale, in the Driver's Club magazine.
> (In reply to Tim, the Grey) My bro has a 525i again, in his opinion no doubt which is the best car to drive.
>
>
did you know that a few yearsback BMW made a 520i and 525i Touring 4x4. They are now quite old and very rare as they were only made for a couple of years (?) I've only ever see one for sale, in the Driver's Club magazine.
In reply to Lord of Starkness:
Depends on whether OP is keen to sit behind an Audi badge.
You and I know better.
(Octavia 140 bhp 2.0 litre TDI estate, Haldex clutch giving it part time four wheel drive, mpg varies between 40 and 60, build quality equal to VW, big enough to sleep in back...... )
Depends on whether OP is keen to sit behind an Audi badge.
You and I know better.
(Octavia 140 bhp 2.0 litre TDI estate, Haldex clutch giving it part time four wheel drive, mpg varies between 40 and 60, build quality equal to VW, big enough to sleep in back...... )
In reply to Arthur.B:
I ran an Audi 1.9TDI for several years. The only problem i had was with the air/fuel meter. Audi wanted £80 supplied for a new one, I got one in the same box from Skoda for £50 supplied.
I changed my car this year and looked at Audi's but they are just not good value for your money. I ended up with a diesel Subaru Legacy estate. If i wanted an Audi the same spec it would have cost me £9000 more.
I would keep the Ford and spend money on more trips :0)
I ran an Audi 1.9TDI for several years. The only problem i had was with the air/fuel meter. Audi wanted £80 supplied for a new one, I got one in the same box from Skoda for £50 supplied.
I changed my car this year and looked at Audi's but they are just not good value for your money. I ended up with a diesel Subaru Legacy estate. If i wanted an Audi the same spec it would have cost me £9000 more.
I would keep the Ford and spend money on more trips :0)
In reply to diablo: I didn't know that. I was determned to get a 5 series but after the test drives there was no doubt which car I enjoyed more. Actually tested a couple of Subarus and they were by far the worst for the money.
In reply to Arthur.B:
I have got a 2005 passat tdi which has the same engine, chassis & electrics. Mine has been 100% reliable except that it get's through cv gaitors very quickly, I have been told that the A4 has the same problem.
I have driven a passat 4 motion which has the same 4wd system as the Audi & it is better to drive, loads more grip & you don't get the understeer that the front wheel drive car has, also feels better on the way in to corners with the engine breaking going to all 4 wheels.
VW & Audi dealers are extremely expensive for servicing. Make sure the cam belt has been changed if you buy one,the whole front end of the car has to be removed to change the belts, £850 at my local VW/Audi dealer or £475 at my friendly, local, reliable mechanic.
I have got a 2005 passat tdi which has the same engine, chassis & electrics. Mine has been 100% reliable except that it get's through cv gaitors very quickly, I have been told that the A4 has the same problem.
I have driven a passat 4 motion which has the same 4wd system as the Audi & it is better to drive, loads more grip & you don't get the understeer that the front wheel drive car has, also feels better on the way in to corners with the engine breaking going to all 4 wheels.
VW & Audi dealers are extremely expensive for servicing. Make sure the cam belt has been changed if you buy one,the whole front end of the car has to be removed to change the belts, £850 at my local VW/Audi dealer or £475 at my friendly, local, reliable mechanic.
In reply to all:
My attentions are shifting slightly to an A3 1.9 TDi 130BHP Quattro.
Any further opinions welcome.
(And yes, it is a Golf, but only insofar as the A4 is a Passat).
Tim hit the nail on the head earlier; I am somewhat fixated on owning a car with a Quattro badge attached to it (for which I apologise not one jot).
My attentions are shifting slightly to an A3 1.9 TDi 130BHP Quattro.
Any further opinions welcome.
(And yes, it is a Golf, but only insofar as the A4 is a Passat).
Tim hit the nail on the head earlier; I am somewhat fixated on owning a car with a Quattro badge attached to it (for which I apologise not one jot).
In reply to Arthur.B: Have driven a friends 2.0 tdi think it was a 54 plate, seemed fast and was a tiptronic gear box which was nice and smooth. Only did about five miles in it. I did work with him for three years and he had no problems with it, I had lots of hassle with my Golf over the same period.
In reply to Dave Morrison: It wasn't a quattro btw just an s line.
In reply to diablo:
And an E30 iX. Still a good few LHD examples available. Shame they had plastic gearboxes really
OP: Swapping from a good low mileage car to a good high mileage car doesn't seem like a great plan but if you want an Audi then why not.
Quattro on the higher output models gives you nicely balanced handling in the bends under power, not really how most people drive but nice if you do like to cane it on wet twisty roads from time to time. It may (I'm speculating) be of some value in taming the big surge of torque you get from small, high boost tdi engines that makes them so unpleasant to use especially in a fwd chassis.
jk
> did you know that a few yearsback BMW made a 520i and 525i Touring 4x4. They are now quite old and very rare as they were only made for a couple of years (?) I've only ever see one for sale, in the Driver's Club magazine.
And an E30 iX. Still a good few LHD examples available. Shame they had plastic gearboxes really
OP: Swapping from a good low mileage car to a good high mileage car doesn't seem like a great plan but if you want an Audi then why not.
Quattro on the higher output models gives you nicely balanced handling in the bends under power, not really how most people drive but nice if you do like to cane it on wet twisty roads from time to time. It may (I'm speculating) be of some value in taming the big surge of torque you get from small, high boost tdi engines that makes them so unpleasant to use especially in a fwd chassis.
jk
In reply to Arthur.B:
Get a Subaru Legacy instead. Miles better than an Impreza and you don't look like a Colin McRae wanna be.
I've got one, it's ace! (well it will be once it's been fixed)
Get a Subaru Legacy instead. Miles better than an Impreza and you don't look like a Colin McRae wanna be.
I've got one, it's ace! (well it will be once it's been fixed)
In reply to Jon Jones:
My employer owns a Subaru dealership. Legacy's aren't too reliable, they have replaced a few of the diesel engines.
The Legacy diesel isn't very good to drive, it has very little torque compared to my 1.9 TDi passat.
My employer owns a Subaru dealership. Legacy's aren't too reliable, they have replaced a few of the diesel engines.
The Legacy diesel isn't very good to drive, it has very little torque compared to my 1.9 TDi passat.
In reply to Arthur.B:
Thinking of similar choices but I heard the Quattro did seriously effect economy of the diesel engines. Have you heard different then and from who?
Thinking of similar choices but I heard the Quattro did seriously effect economy of the diesel engines. Have you heard different then and from who?
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