Quattroport

I know I can expect more people favoring the Audi given this is an A4 forum, but brand loyalty aside, which one is better
My concerns are:
Resale value,
the BMW is the new model while the B7 will be replaced in 2008,
Overall relibility

MB03NOVA

My prediction for these two new models, based on historical reference, is that BMW wins on re-sale and reliability. The 325i manual I drove was a dog. The torque is just not there at all. When saddled with even more weight from an AWD drivetrain, it will be even worse.

The A4, even in 2.0T form, wins in acceleration, driving pleasure, fit and finish, and all-wheel drive capability and sophistication. In 3.2 form, it's not even close, which is why I chose the A4.

I do like the BMW's keyless entry, rear glass opening (wagon model), and front/rear parktronic features...not available at any price on the A4.

Back to price....when you factor in the lower purchase price of the A4 to begin with, it's probably a wash. Even if the BMW retains 65% after three years and the A4 only 59% (or whatever), it's not going to be enough of a difference to make up for the A4's lower MSRP.

Plus, the A4 is more likely to be deeply discounted vs. the BMW since it is a brand new model that has gotten great reviews from the motoring press, so the gap is even bigger.

Sherpa

Having driven a 325xi across the country, I must say that I really don't like it. Seats are comfortable, but everything else is not up to snuff with the price tag. It's a poor performer in my Audi biased book.

One thing it does have going for it is its reliability. Never had one problem with that car (belongs to my sister).

RJsAudi

I don't understand why people think the B7 is not a new model, both the 3 and the B7 has a new look and performance improvements, both models debuted about the same time, so what if a B7 is a 05.5!
Aside from what car does what better than the other, I enjoy the fact that there are not as many Audi's on the road, to me it feels more exclusive, stikes up good conversation!

a4flyer

I DONT' want to see an myself at every traffic light and prefer to take the road less traveled.

From a value point of view, BMW is absolutely charging a premium for their greater (US)brand recognition. Is the premium justified?

I really like...did I say LIKE?.. make that LOVE my 2005.5 B7 2.0T Quattro 6spd with sport suspension. It's a lease. I just turned in a B6 3.0 Q 6spd with stock/non-sport suspension in July. I do not miss the V6 and love the improved handling even though I was very much in love with the B6 before. I may get the APR chip in the spring.

Drive both and then decide.

I am not going to rip BMW. They make a great car. A friend has a 525i (2001?) It is simply a beautiful car. Never driven it and only a brief ride, but still - excellent wheels. Yet I gotta believe from a value point of view, Audi is the better option.