Mikes97A8

I just aquired a "new to me" 97 A8 quattro with 74,000 miles. I think it has every option except hot weather package. I wasn't really planning on getting one yet but the deal was too good to pass (approx $21,000). The car is Black inside and out with everyone's favorite Goodyears (New) at all four corners. Perfect shape inside and out.

I tested every system and the only thing wrong in the driver's headrest will not move. It is raised all the way. I was having some electrical probs. Sometinmes the headlights, wipers, and turnsignals wouldn't work. I talked to the local Audi dealership (Cunningham) and the suggested Ignition was the prog and to not turn the Key too far. They were CORRECT! After starting the A8 I just have to turn the Key counter-clockwise about an 1/8th of an inch and it clicks into place and everything works fine.

First Impressions, this car is the most quiet, solid, and comfortable car I have ever been in. Love the on road performance. I (like everyone else) wish the tranny was more responsive. But like the manual says if you want to get moving fast, push the accelerator down all the way to activate the kick-down function, and you will be flying with the best.

I also have a 98 black (in and out) Mustang Cobra, which I have advertised in the local paper. They both look so good next to each other in my garage I'm starting to think "screw it" I will keep them both. (My insurance agent smiles!)

Finally, I was originally looking at a Q45 (94-96) vintage, but also wanted a 4x4 SUV. Problem was I couldnt make up my mind. The Audi A8 is the best of both worlds and gets great mileage in my opinion.

Bada Bing

Also looking at '94-'96 Q45. Tremendous value for the money

Mikes97A8

I agree, I wish I had a bigger garage just to justify buying a 96 Q45 for around $13-$14K. They have been rated as great buys and very reliable if maintained properly. Just make sure it has the traction control option. I used to have an Impala SS 94. Great car with lots of power (questionable build quality) but it was a pain in the A** in wet weather and scary as HE** in the snow.

Bada Bing

The few '94-'95 Q45's I have looked at all had the traction control option. I live in SoCal where wet traction is not a big issue, but it is still nice to have. Unfortunately, some of the models I looked at were the 'a' model with active suspension. The Q45a models ride harsher than the regular models (but probably handle better). I want something smooth riding. I also checked with an Infiniti service advisor and he told me that if the suspension hydraulics system fails, you're looking at a $6-7K repair bill. Therefore, I decided to stay clear of the 'a' model.

The only negative aspect of the car which I noticed is that the transmission is a little slow to downshift coming out of turns or when accelerating hard.

April

Tranny took a dump at 100K. Don't know if the aftermarket will be scarce due to age and low number of cars.

Mikes97A8

I understand the 90-93 model years had transmission problems but the 94+ were supposed to be more durable.

Capt Ron

value is NOT the word I would use. Cheap, maybe.