Hey there,
I'm looking at buying a 1999 or 1998 Audi A4 at the end of this summer, and was wondering what the general opinion of these cars is? Are they reliable, do they go a long ways (mile-wise... like Hondas do), are they comfortable and "nice"? Also, I was wondering what you all think of the 1999 and 1998 models of this car, and if they are known for any specific issues or not. For an 18 year old heading off to college would this be a good car to buy, and would it last me? Also, what is a reasonable amount to pay for one of these cars... I've been looking at some ones I like with the nice interior and heated seats and all... and those range from $8,000 - $10,000 with generally high mileage. Thanks.

Yeah audi's are pretty good cars. But that much for ones with high mileage would be right, since they are in nice condition and have been inspected bla bla bla. Why not consider your options though. Look around for other deals etc.

Ok so when you say I should look at other deals out there... what are you recommending? Is it worth spending around $10 grand for an Audi with mid 100k miles on it... or is there a way better car you can get in that price range?

Well 100 thousand miles would be a great deal for that car. Just don't get stuck to one thing. It may look great and well be a good running car for years but when you drive it just you'll want a good riding car. I mean just look before you buy because you may buy that one, but then a day or so later find one you'd really like to have.

Did you consider a Honda Civic? For that price, I guess you could get a model made from 1996 until 2000. And it is a Honda, so it is reliable.

I haven't any experience with the A4's but am about to buy my third Audi (a used S4 Avant) and can comment on Audi reliability in general.

I bought my current ride - a '91 90 Quattro 20-valve - six years ago with 95,000 mi on it. I think I was the second owner, and it had been pretty well cared for. It now has 270,000 miles on it and except for a failing transmission, it is still in excellent shape; in fact, it still feels more solid than our newer Honda, Toyota or Ford.

My first Audi was a '90 100 Quattro, which I bought with 28,000 miles and kept until it was totalled by an oncoming pickup at 230,000 miles.

I kept pretty close to the recommended service intervals, and do most work myself. Parts costs are pretty comparable to Honda's and from what I hear, dealer service is just as outrageous as for the Japanese makes. However, the quality of the OEM Audi parts is higher than most, and, for me at least, last a very long time. In addition to the original major mechanicals, my 90 still has its original a/c system (converted to R134a), power steering, master cylinder and front calipers, alternator (I replaced the brushes at 200K) - even the radiator hoses are original and in good shape!

There are some good Audi enthusiasts on the AudiWorld forums (http://www.audiworld.com/) if you want to ask questions about the A4.

Happy hunting.