das

I have not driven the S4 yet but I was wondering
if this car because of its extra wait feels less nimble than the 1.8. I mainly concerned to hear from manual transmission drivers. Thanks in advance

Raoul

When I drove an S4 it felt noticably heavier than my 99.5 1.8TQM.

s4speed

the 1.8t does feel more "tossable"

Jim C

Heavier yes, but more stable than my 1.8t
definately a good investment.

but thats just me.

Kevin B

I had a 98.5 1.8TQMS before my S4 and I would say that the A4 definitely feels lighter, but once you put your foot down that is not a factor. As a result of its increased weight the S4 does seem more solid to me. The A4 feels nimbler, but it definitely loses it's grip easier too (more understeer from my experience). Drive the S4 when you get a chance!

2002-4Speed

Yes, the weight is a factor but they did such a good job on the stock suspension and steering feel compared to the 1.8tq with the sport suspension that my S4 actually feels more nimble than my A4. Now the A4 with a good aftermarket suspension would definitely feel more tossable.
The power of the S4 more than makes up for this.

s4wood

I like it when people like yourself...who have a racing past/present say such things about the S4. It makes it all the better when I improve the car's suspension, braking, and tires...I know I got a Nogaro rocket. :-D

Just figurin out how to drive with 300+ bhp.

Steve S.
00 S4

Eric H.

The 1.8TQMS is sporty and agile, but it vibrates and makes noise in a way not present in the S4. My first impression in switching from one to the other was that the S4 feels like a much larger car, solid, refined, planted. The rockets propelling you may actually pull the nose a tad out of line when torque is at max, but you can tuck yourself into spaces in traffic you wouldn't dream of in the 1.8. The speed is dramatic compared to the 1.8, which is no slouch, but the mechanicals are that much better, they handle it. Everything happens more quickly. You surprise yourself, and your passengers go into shock. The nimble quality of the 1.8 is endearing, but it is simply a way of describing less. S4 is more.