Info sought on Audi A4 1.8T vs. 3.0 V6
 

I am considering buying an Audi A4.

It has two engine variants. The tried and true 1.8 Turbo, and the new all aluminum 3.0 V6.

Normally, there wouldnt' even be a second thought.

Go with the 6.

But, for years Audi's six was the 2.8. Now they have come out with a 3.0 all aluminum V6.

I am wary about buying any car with a "new" engine in it fearing that it sometimes takes 2 or 3 years for them to iron out the bugs.

Any thoughts???

It's not really "new", just redesigned. Automakers usually spruce up their engines after a few years. I haven't heard anything bad about the new 3.0L engines. I think that, especially from Audi, they'll be okay.

As for the V6 in and of itself, I don't like it. I've long-range test driven both A4s, and the 1.8t feels much better. It's simply more fun to drive. However, the 3.0 is smoother.

Either way, there is an ignition coil problem, with the 1.8T's units being recalled. The 3.0 with the 6-speed is fun to drive...the 4-holer leaves a lot to be desired. The 1.8T has potential, seeing as how it's already t-charged. Personally, I wouldn't buy the A4 1.8T. The 3.0 is far and away the better engine choice.

By the way, I work at an Audi dealer, and see these things on a first hand basis every day.

=)
 

The engine is infact a new design, and shares only a few components with the 2.8. Just some of the 3.0's differences are: aluminum engine block, lighter pistons, balanced shaft, continuous intake camshaft adjustment, exhaust camshaft adjustment, new two position variable intake manifold, bosch motronic blah blah blah with electronic throttle control, etc. 0-60 in 6.9 seconds for the 3.0, the 2.8 was 7.7 seconds.

The 2.8L was a dogshit engine. That's why it's not built anymore. The 3.0L is superior in everyway. Power, smooth, and just all around fun. It's an Audi, it's a great car.

I guess the only thing that really drives people to the 1.8T, is the $6,500 increase to the 3.0L's base price from the 1.8T. (Base price: 1.8T, $25,610; 3.0, $32,250).


edit: Spelling.

Are you a tuner? Will you be modding your car?

If you aren't or don't plan on going all out, stick with the V6, it will be more instantaneously rewarding. There are also a few mods out there that can easily give you a decent wallop for your buck. Thing that comes to mind the most is a modified ecu chip that could net up to 20 horsepower and twice as much torque.

The 1.8t engine has been around forever and most tuners have gotten the engine into the 300 horsepower range by replacing restrictive parts like the manifold and small turbo. modified ecu chips for the 1.8t can give you like 40 horsepower and 60+ torque. It can get expensive and time consuming to do so much work.

Again, this is just from a tuner perspective. If i were going to convince someone on the street that doesn't seem like he knows about cars... i'd just say get the V6 cuz it has a six speed... and six speeds are FUN. :crazy:

No, this car is going to stay STOCK as far as I am concerned.

I have a Triumph TR6 for the fun stuff. (Fast Road 83 Cam from TriumphTune of England, 10:1 compression head (stock is 7.75:1), ported, polished, balanced, etc.)

If it is staying Stock go for the 3.0!