Autos Audis

Question:

Hello Group, I’m going to buy a used Audi within the next month or two, most likely in the $8k-$12k range. I like to make thoroughly informed decisions, though, so I need to learn more about the Audi line. What year did the transition from the 4000/5000 series to the 80/90/100 series take place? What year did the 80/90/100 series change to the smaller more rounded body style? What do the C and CS trim lines mean? Were sport handling packages sold on these cars? How would I identify that? The 80 and the 90 look the same size to me, is there a body difference between these cars? What are the differences between the 80 and the 90? Is the inline 5 cylinder the only engine available in this time frame (based on my price range)? What are your thoughts on the 5 cylinder? Are there only certain models and years that turbo engines were available? Are the turbos 5 cyl. engines or the 1.8L VW block? I was unaware that the differentials could be locked, is that done from inside the car? I’m only interested in a 50/50 AWD system, who else is selling cars in the U.S. so equipped? I saw a BMW equipped with AWD recently, anybody know if that’s a 50/50 system? Thanks for your comments,

Response:

Gee, so many questions! Audi renamed the 5000 to the European 100/200 designation around 1989… Because of all the bad publicity surrounding the untrue "60 Minutes" allegations about the 5000 killed sales, Audi renamed the car to match the German designations. 100s were normally aspirated 5 cylinder cars. The S and CS designations are trim levels. 200s were the turbocharged cars. They also used 5 cylinder engines. Audi did not use VW engines for these cars. The quattro all-wheel drive was available for both models. BMW and Mercedes-Benz made attemps at all-wheel drive and failed miserably. The 325 iX and the 4Matic cars were crap, to put it kindly, and were subsequently dropped. Quattro adds to the appeal of an Audi, and desireability for foul weather driving, especially. In fact, the only 4000s that most people want are the quattros, I’m assuming that most front wheel drive 4000s have been crushed. Early 80s and 90s were differentiated by the use of a 4 or 5 cylinder motor, then only by trim, and lastly, the 80 was dropped. The desireable 90s are the quattros, and the rather rare 90 coupe quattro. V8s are gas hogs, and if you think 5000 parts are pricey, wait until you need certain V8 parts… But if you want exclusivity, get a V8. By the way, the only Audis that did not have a model insignia was the V8 and the 200 quattro. Okay, there was one year that a "V8" badge was used, but most V8s only had the four rings badge. Audi changed body styles in 1992 for the 100, and dropped the 5 cylinder motor for a new V6. This is NOT a Volkswagen motor. Audi is a 60

Question:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Sorry , i should have said i’m in the UK > Andy. > My local dealer has a car almost identical to mine for sale, UK supplied, > X-reg Sept 2000, 10,000 miles, 225 Coupe, Bose, 6CD, etc but in black and > with comp alloys – and they want

Question:

I am starting to look for a new ride.  I have decided on an A4 1.8T. Unfortunatly with triptronic so the wife can drive and not complain. What is the best year to buy for someone who wants to tune the car to the max?  Is there any differences in the tranmissions/engines on the 1.8 T through out the last few years?  I have heard that the 2001 is the best year so far. Thanks for your replies

Response:

We have a 2001, 5 speed. My wife and I love it. 2001 saw a 20HP increase to 170. Great car, no problems at all. Tom Godon 2001 Audi A4 1.8T Quattro 5speed 2000 Toyota 4Runner SR5 5speed 2001 Kawasaki ZRX1200R 1989 Honda CR125R – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > I am starting to look for a new ride.  I have decided on an A4 1.8T. > Unfortunatly with triptronic so the wife can drive and not complain. > What is the best year to buy for someone who wants to tune the car to > the max?  Is there any differences in the tranmissions/engines on the > 1.8 T through out the last few years?  I have heard that the 2001 is > the best year so far. > Thanks for your replies

Response:

Question:

Hi, I don’t know, if I seen same kind failure also my parents Audi 80 (-90 diesel)… You cannot turn headlights on, when switch is ON position you have only parking lights on. High Beam is working. Problem was in this case Light switch itself. Anycase check fuses first…Switch was really expensive.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hi guys (and girls) > My A4 is blind!  It’s headlamps won’t turn on anymore!  The high beams go > on, no problems, but the headlamps just don’t.  It’s weird because it > happened to both at the same time, so I figure it’s gotta be something > electrical.  Help?

Response:

I have non-standard bulbs, i think, but non-standard headlights too.  The Valeo e-codes. I didn’t put them in, though… I will check the fuse, that would be great!  How much can a switch run for on a 97 A4?

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Fuse has gone, the dipped beam is seperate from the main beam, > or you have blown the switch, do you have non standard bulbs? this would > cause the switch to burn out > — > Ronny > Hi guys (and girls) > My A4 is blind!  It’s headlamps won’t turn on anymore!  The high beams go > on, no problems, but the headlamps just don’t.  It’s weird because it > happened to both at the same time, so I figure it’s gotta be something > electrical.  Help?

Response:

You’ve got me worried now. I’ve replaced my bulbs with the "xenon" white ones as I find that the dip beams are pretty poor. They are the same rating as he standard bulbes other than the whiter light and they’ve been in a while now. What are the chances of them burning the switch out?

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Fuse has gone, the dipped beam is seperate from the main beam, > or you have blown the switch, do you have non standard bulbs? this would > cause the switch to burn out > — > Ronny > Hi guys (and girls) > My A4 is blind!  It’s headlamps won’t turn on anymore!  The high beams go > on, no problems, but the headlamps just don’t.  It’s weird because it > happened to both at the same time, so I figure it’s gotta be something > electrical.  Help?

Response:

Hi guys (and girls) My A4 is blind!  It’s headlamps won’t turn on anymore!  The high beams go on, no problems, but the headlamps just don’t.  It’s weird because it happened to both at the same time, so I figure it’s gotta be something electrical.  Help?

Response:

Fuse has gone, the dipped beam is seperate from the main beam, or you have blown the switch, do you have non standard bulbs? this would cause the switch to burn out — Ronny

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hi guys (and girls) > My A4 is blind!  It’s headlamps won’t turn on anymore!  The high beams go > on, no problems, but the headlamps just don’t.  It’s weird because it > happened to both at the same time, so I figure it’s gotta be something > electrical.  Help?

Response:

Question:

Obviously this is your first Acura.  The leather might as well be rice paper as the quality will show long-term.  Bottom line; you get what you pay for.  The Acura is a great alternative for those that can’t afford a like-quipped German car. I’ll tip that hat to the 3.2TL-S for performance bargain, but that’s I traded my Z28 for a S4…and I prefer all-wheel drive for the winter. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Fully agree. After waiting with great anticipation for the 02 A4 I was >disappointed to see that seats were not leather. I’ve onwed 3 Audis since >1992 (100CS, 100CS,and an A6 which I still own). So, on Saturday I bought an >Acura 3.2tl-s instead of the A4. For about the same price I got my leather >seats, but more importantly, I got great car.

Response:

> Hmmm, And I was impressed with how much the "Letherette" looked and felt > like the real leather in our ‘01 A4 1.8T. > Hope you don’t live in snow country with that rear wheel drive BMW!

What could be more fun than a rear wheel drive car on snow! Wish they made more cars like that… Jone. ‘96 A4 1.8T

Response:

Remember though…power seats add weight. For that reason there are none on the already heavy TT

Response:

Enjoy that Acura for now…..but head to head if you try to cmpare the Acura to an Audi….no comparison, one will be a bit shatty and the other still a class act (guess which is which?)

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Obviously this is your first Acura.  The leather might as well be rice > paper as the quality will show long-term.  Bottom line; you get what > you pay for.  The Acura is a great alternative for those that can’t > afford a like-quipped German car. > I’ll tip that hat to the 3.2TL-S for performance bargain, but that’s I > traded my Z28 for a S4…and I prefer all-wheel drive for the winter. >Fully agree. After waiting with great anticipation for the 02 A4 I was >disappointed to see that seats were not leather. I’ve onwed 3 Audis since >1992 (100CS, 100CS,and an A6 which I still own). So, on Saturday I bought an >Acura 3.2tl-s instead of the A4. For about the same price I got my leather >seats, but more importantly, I got great car.

Response:

Big gotcha.  Americans told all 3 of the German companies that they would not wait the 6-8 months to buy cars this way.  Germans typically order their custom cars this far ahead of time, sometimes even upon delivery of their previously ordered car. Cant see that happening in the US. C. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I agree. > In one sense it simplifies things, but in another it is frustrating. > I remember living in Germany and being amazed at the way that all options > were truly options and none was tied to another. > I even had a 528i with power front windows and crank rear windows.  You > could even order a car like that. > I wish we could do that, because, for example, I NEVER want to pay $1000 or > more for a hole in the roof– a sunroof. > And while I’d rather have sport seats and a sport (wheel/tire/suspension) > package, I’ll ALWAYS take a 4-spoke steering wheel rather than a "Sport" > 3-spoke steering wheel.  I liked the 4-spoke steering wheel better in my > Rabbit (OK, it was a wheel stolen from an A1 GTi) , my 2 Jettas, my 528i > (D), and my 98 Z3 but did not like the 3-spoke steering wheel in my e28 535i > (US) and 99 M-Z3. > I’d also like to order a car with heated passenger seat but non-heated > driver’ s seat, especially in MY car (since I never use the heated seats > even in my wife’s Saab), but she does whenever the temperature drops below > 70 degrees….. > And I, too would like to have the Aluminum Trim in the 3.0 which I’ll > probably get next spring, but it is only available in the 1.8T.    I don’t > need wood in any car. > Actually, if the Passat 4-motion were offered with three pedals, I’d not be > having this conversation.  Especially now that VW has a 4/50 warranty like > it always should have had….. > (I say three pedals because it is more efficient than saying "manual" and > having a 57 year old VW salesman who sold Chevys last week tell me that the > Passat 4-motion IS offered with a manual– a Tiptronic.) > Dear Audi, > I’m very dissapointed in the new A4 options for the 1.8T. Why is it that > you > do not offer all the same interior and luxery options that the 3.0 has? Do > the owners that want a smaller engine not need or want 8 way power seats > with memory? Do we not enjoy wood trim? I must say that this… and this > alone(!) will push me to buy a BMW. I love the Audi A4 3.0 fully loaded > but > I do not want to pay the huge cost difference for the larger engine. But I > do want the option to have all the convience and finish options that it > offers… too bad you assume those that want a smaller engine don’t enjoy > wood and leather. Again… very dissapointed!

Response:

Thats cos the old regime insisted on a local assembly capability for VWSA to avoid 110% tax on imported cars.  No such luck in the US C – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Strange… > In South Africa we can order any of the models with most of the options, > including the power seats with memory… > Dear Audi, > I’m very dissapointed in the new A4 options for the 1.8T. Why is it that > you > do not offer all the same interior and luxery options that the 3.0 has? Do > the owners that want a smaller engine not need or want 8 way power seats > with memory? Do we not enjoy wood trim? I must say that this… and this > alone(!) will push me to buy a BMW. I love the Audi A4 3.0 fully loaded > but > I do not want to pay the huge cost difference for the larger engine. But I > do want the option to have all the convience and finish options that it > offers… too bad you assume those that want a smaller engine don’t enjoy > wood and leather. Again… very dissapointed!

Response:

Americans are special-ordering Audis all the time and waiting 4 months for delivery.  I’ve read several articles put out by Audi where they brag about how their production lines have total flexibility on a single-vehicle basis.  Two examples they cite are how cars destined for different countries are freely intermixed on the line, and how they can change the paint booth color on a single-vehicle basis.  I can’t imagine why building an A4 with a 3.0 interior and a 1.8T engine should impact the production and delivery time.  This problem is caused by the AOA dufuses who think market positioning is more important than letting people get what they want. I was planning on getting a new A4, but bought a used Audi instead.  A major reason was not being able to get leather with the 1.8T. Wayne Dohnal (email adr contains spam protection) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >Big gotcha.  Americans told all 3 of the German companies that >they would not wait the 6-8 months to buy cars this way.  Germans >typically order their custom cars this far ahead of time, >sometimes even upon delivery of their previously ordered car. >Cant see that happening in the US. >C.

Response:

> >LOL! >Audis are for DRIVING.  If you want wood and leather, why not just sit >in your living room?  Please, do buy the BMW, and leave the Audis for >people who actually want to drive them. > Have you taken the carpet out of your Audi ?

No, nor the seats nor the headliner.  You see, even the smallest, least-luxurious cars have even these small amenities.  Let us hope that Audi doesn’t abandon their sporty character to suit the snobs who need a rolling living room. Spider

Response:

You are right, a very very few Americans, less than 1000 a year for the whole of NA incl Canada and Mexico, according to the Audi marketing VP. C. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Americans are special-ordering Audis all the time and waiting 4 months > for delivery.  I’ve read several articles put out by Audi where they > brag about how their production lines have total flexibility on a > single-vehicle basis.  Two examples they cite are how cars destined > for different countries are freely intermixed on the line, and how > they can change the paint booth color on a single-vehicle basis.  I > can’t imagine why building an A4 with a 3.0 interior and a 1.8T engine > should impact the production and delivery time.  This problem is > caused by the AOA dufuses who think market positioning is more > important than letting people get what they want. > I was planning on getting a new A4, but bought a used Audi instead.  A > major reason was not being able to get leather with the 1.8T. > Wayne Dohnal > (email adr contains spam protection) >Big gotcha.  Americans told all 3 of the German companies that >they would not wait the 6-8 months to buy cars this way.  Germans >typically order their custom cars this far ahead of time, >sometimes even upon delivery of their previously ordered car. >Cant see that happening in the US. >C.

Response:

And I would prefer the opposite: The 1.8t interior with the 3.0 liter engine:). I don’t care about some of the extras such as wood or power seats which would keep the price down. Since I do want the larger engine I’ll be stuck with the wood & seats… we’re a fussy bunch…. Byron

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Dear Audi, > I’m very dissapointed in the new A4 options for the 1.8T. Why is it that you > do not offer all the same interior and luxery options that the 3.0 has? Do > the owners that want a smaller engine not need or want 8 way power seats > with memory? Do we not enjoy wood trim? I must say that this… and this > alone(!) will push me to buy a BMW. I love the Audi A4 3.0 fully loaded but > I do not want to pay the huge cost difference for the larger engine. But I > do want the option to have all the convience and finish options that it > offers… too bad you assume those that want a smaller engine don’t enjoy > wood and leather. Again… very dissapointed!

Response:

Fully agree. After waiting with great anticipation for the 02 A4 I was disappointed to see that seats were not leather. I’ve onwed 3 Audis since 1992 (100CS, 100CS,and an A6 which I still own). So, on Saturday I bought an Acura 3.2tl-s instead of the A4. For about the same price I got my leather seats, but more importantly, I got great car.

Response:

> Dear Audi, > I’m very dissapointed in the new A4 options for the 1.8T. Why is it that you > do not offer all the same interior and luxery options that the 3.0 has? Do > the owners that want a smaller engine not need or want 8 way power seats > with memory? Do we not enjoy wood trim? I must say that this… and this > alone(!) will push me to buy a BMW. I love the Audi A4 3.0 fully loaded but > I do not want to pay the huge cost difference for the larger engine. But I > do want the option to have all the convience and finish options that it > offers… too bad you assume those that want a smaller engine don’t enjoy > wood and leather. Again… very dissapointed!

LOL! Audis are for DRIVING.  If you want wood and leather, why not just sit in your living room?  Please, do buy the BMW, and leave the Audis for people who actually want to drive them. Spider ‘97 A4 1.8TQ (no steenking wood or leather, but damn fun to drive.)

Response:

… and for driving I expect to see a Subaru WRX STi hitting the shores over here (last half of ‘02 perhaps). Now that car might be ugly but she sure can cook. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> LOL! > Audis are for DRIVING.  If you want wood and leather, why not just sit > in your living room?  Please, do buy the BMW, and leave the Audis for > people who actually want to drive them. > Spider > ‘97 A4 1.8TQ (no steenking wood or leather, but damn fun to drive.)

Response:

>LOL! >Audis are for DRIVING.  If you want wood and leather, why not just sit >in your living room?  Please, do buy the BMW, and leave the Audis for >people who actually want to drive them.

Have you taken the carpet out of your Audi ?

Response:

Hmmm, And I was impressed with how much the "Letherette" looked and felt like the real leather in our ‘01 A4 1.8T. Hope you don’t live in snow country with that rear wheel drive BMW! Tom ‘01 A4 1.8T Quattro 5 speed "Leatherette and Aluminum" ‘00 4Runner SR5 – 5speed 4WD "Cloth and Wood"

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Dear Audi, > I’m very dissapointed in the new A4 options for the 1.8T. Why is it that you > do not offer all the same interior and luxery options that the 3.0 has? Do > the owners that want a smaller engine not need or want 8 way power seats > with memory? Do we not enjoy wood trim? I must say that this… and this > alone(!) will push me to buy a BMW. I love the Audi A4 3.0 fully loaded but > I do not want to pay the huge cost difference for the larger engine. But I > do want the option to have all the convience and finish options that it > offers… too bad you assume those that want a smaller engine don’t enjoy > wood and leather. Again… very dissapointed!

Response:

Strange… In South Africa we can order any of the models with most of the options, including the power seats with memory…

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Dear Audi, > I’m very dissapointed in the new A4 options for the 1.8T. Why is it that you > do not offer all the same interior and luxery options that the 3.0 has? Do > the owners that want a smaller engine not need or want 8 way power seats > with memory? Do we not enjoy wood trim? I must say that this… and this > alone(!) will push me to buy a BMW. I love the Audi A4 3.0 fully loaded but > I do not want to pay the huge cost difference for the larger engine. But I > do want the option to have all the convience and finish options that it > offers… too bad you assume those that want a smaller engine don’t enjoy > wood and leather. Again… very dissapointed!

Response:

>I like the way Audi equips their cars, but I understand it does not meet >everyone’s needs. Wood trim in a sports sedan is an anathema to some, >desirable to others. Those who want wood and leather with a 4 cylinder are a >very small segment of the buying public. Audi could offer all options as in >Europe, but the added expense for them would not pay off. There are very >good wood kits on the market and leather is available through >dealer/aftermarket installations. Get the car you want, and equip it as you >wish.

I’m buying a new A4, and I agree for the most part. I like the aluminum, and the fake leather is good enough for me. I do wish I could get the power seats, though. Oh, well. Chris

Response:

…and how much would you be willing to pay extra for this flexibility? I for one am glad Audi kept the price of a 1.8T down by reducing the choices. I guess you can never please everyone. Zig – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > I agree. > In one sense it simplifies things, but in another it is frustrating. > I remember living in Germany and being amazed at the way that all options > were truly options and none was tied to another. > I even had a 528i with power front windows and crank rear windows.  You > could even order a car like that. > I wish we could do that, because, for example, I NEVER want to pay $1000 or > more for a hole in the roof– a sunroof. > And while I’d rather have sport seats and a sport (wheel/tire/suspension) > package, I’ll ALWAYS take a 4-spoke steering wheel rather than a "Sport" > 3-spoke steering wheel.  I liked the 4-spoke steering wheel better in my > Rabbit (OK, it was a wheel stolen from an A1 GTi) , my 2 Jettas, my 528i > (D), and my 98 Z3 but did not like the 3-spoke steering wheel in my e28 535i > (US) and 99 M-Z3. > I’d also like to order a car with heated passenger seat but non-heated > driver’ s seat, especially in MY car (since I never use the heated seats > even in my wife’s Saab), but she does whenever the temperature drops below > 70 degrees….. > And I, too would like to have the Aluminum Trim in the 3.0 which I’ll > probably get next spring, but it is only available in the 1.8T.    I don’t > need wood in any car. > Actually, if the Passat 4-motion were offered with three pedals, I’d not be > having this conversation.  Especially now that VW has a 4/50 warranty like > it always should have had….. > (I say three pedals because it is more efficient than saying "manual" and > having a 57 year old VW salesman who sold Chevys last week tell me that the > Passat 4-motion IS offered with a manual– a Tiptronic.) > Dear Audi, > I’m very dissapointed in the new A4 options for the 1.8T. Why is it that >  you > do not offer all the same interior and luxery options that the 3.0 has? Do > the owners that want a smaller engine not need or want 8 way power seats > with memory? Do we not enjoy wood trim? I must say that this… and this > alone(!) will push me to buy a BMW. I love the Audi A4 3.0 fully loaded >  but > I do not want to pay the huge cost difference for the larger engine. But I > do want the option to have all the convience and finish options that it > offers… too bad you assume those that want a smaller engine don’t enjoy > wood and leather. Again… very dissapointed!

Response:

I like the way Audi equips their cars, but I understand it does not meet everyone’s needs. Wood trim in a sports sedan is an anathema to some, desirable to others. Those who want wood and leather with a 4 cylinder are a very small segment of the buying public. Audi could offer all options as in Europe, but the added expense for them would not pay off. There are very good wood kits on the market and leather is available through dealer/aftermarket installations. Get the car you want, and equip it as you wish. Gregg

Response:

I agree. In one sense it simplifies things, but in another it is frustrating. I remember living in Germany and being amazed at the way that all options were truly options and none was tied to another. I even had a 528i with power front windows and crank rear windows.  You could even order a car like that. I wish we could do that, because, for example, I NEVER want to pay $1000 or more for a hole in the roof– a sunroof. And while I’d rather have sport seats and a sport (wheel/tire/suspension) package, I’ll ALWAYS take a 4-spoke steering wheel rather than a "Sport" 3-spoke steering wheel.  I liked the 4-spoke steering wheel better in my Rabbit (OK, it was a wheel stolen from an A1 GTi) , my 2 Jettas, my 528i (D), and my 98 Z3 but did not like the 3-spoke steering wheel in my e28 535i (US) and 99 M-Z3. I’d also like to order a car with heated passenger seat but non-heated driver’ s seat, especially in MY car (since I never use the heated seats even in my wife’s Saab), but she does whenever the temperature drops below 70 degrees….. And I, too would like to have the Aluminum Trim in the 3.0 which I’ll probably get next spring, but it is only available in the 1.8T.    I don’t need wood in any car. Actually, if the Passat 4-motion were offered with three pedals, I’d not be having this conversation.  Especially now that VW has a 4/50 warranty like it always should have had….. (I say three pedals because it is more efficient than saying "manual" and having a 57 year old VW salesman who sold Chevys last week tell me that the Passat 4-motion IS offered with a manual– a Tiptronic.)

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Dear Audi, > I’m very dissapointed in the new A4 options for the 1.8T. Why is it that you > do not offer all the same interior and luxery options that the 3.0 has? Do > the owners that want a smaller engine not need or want 8 way power seats > with memory? Do we not enjoy wood trim? I must say that this… and this > alone(!) will push me to buy a BMW. I love the Audi A4 3.0 fully loaded but > I do not want to pay the huge cost difference for the larger engine. But I > do want the option to have all the convience and finish options that it > offers… too bad you assume those that want a smaller engine don’t enjoy > wood and leather. Again… very dissapointed!

Response:

Dear Audi, I’m very dissapointed in the new A4 options for the 1.8T. Why is it that you do not offer all the same interior and luxery options that the 3.0 has? Do the owners that want a smaller engine not need or want 8 way power seats with memory? Do we not enjoy wood trim? I must say that this… and this alone(!) will push me to buy a BMW. I love the Audi A4 3.0 fully loaded but I do not want to pay the huge cost difference for the larger engine. But I do want the option to have all the convience and finish options that it offers… too bad you assume those that want a smaller engine don’t enjoy wood and leather. Again… very dissapointed!

Response:

Question:

Peter, I am so very glad that your friends moved back there. I am happy for them. As for being 26 and paying $1900 per year for insurance….sucks to be you! I should think that being in NY and paying that much for insurance really sucks! Of course, I am sure that your lifestyle is much more exciting than mine and I guess you are right, it really sucks here in San Diego. Please, spread the word that it sucks to live in San Diego/Southern California!!!! You will be my Pal then !!! XOXO, Andy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Sucks to live in Philly ?  I am 26 with a clean driving record and my 98 > 1.8TQ is costing me 1900/year insured on Staten Island (NYC).  The other > boroughs of NYC would be about twice that. > And I’ve gotten quotes from other insurance companies a LOT higher than > that. > Of course your insurance is cheaper in San Diego.  Nothing ever happens > there!   > That’s why 5 of my friends moved out there from NY, and all 5 of them moved > back to NYC, despite the higher car insurance we have here.   > (By the way, LA is about the same as NYC, according to one of my friends who > recently moved back to NYC with his car.) > — Peter > Damn! You are getting spanked hard! Are you under 25? I am 35 and pay $600 > per > year for my 1999-1/2 Audi A4 2.8 Quattro with all options on the beast. I > live > in San Diego, CA. I guess it just sucks to live in Philly……

Response:

In center city Philadelphia for $100K/$300K liability, $500 ded. collision, and some cheap extras, I was quoted $1750 for my new 2000 A4Q I.8T from a huge company; I settled on another prominent carrier for $1516. This assumes low mileage, 10K/yr. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >Hi! >How much (ballpark figure) would insurance for an A4 (99 or 98) cost >a year, provided best possible circumstances? Any ideas? >Thanks. >Oliver

Response:

Damn! You are getting spanked hard! Are you under 25? I am 35 and pay $600 per year for my 1999-1/2 Audi A4 2.8 Quattro with all options on the beast. I live in San Diego, CA. I guess it just sucks to live in Philly…… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > In center city Philadelphia for $100K/$300K liability, $500 ded. collision, > and some cheap extras, I was quoted $1750 for my new 2000 A4Q I.8T from a > huge company; I settled on another prominent carrier for $1516. This assumes > low mileage, 10K/yr. >Hi! >How much (ballpark figure) would insurance for an A4 (99 or 98) cost >a year, provided best possible circumstances? Any ideas? >Thanks. >Oliver

Response:

Sucks to live in Philly ?  I am 26 with a clean driving record and my 98 1.8TQ is costing me 1900/year insured on Staten Island (NYC).  The other boroughs of NYC would be about twice that. And I’ve gotten quotes from other insurance companies a LOT higher than that. Of course your insurance is cheaper in San Diego.  Nothing ever happens there!   That’s why 5 of my friends moved out there from NY, and all 5 of them moved back to NYC, despite the higher car insurance we have here.   (By the way, LA is about the same as NYC, according to one of my friends who recently moved back to NYC with his car.) — Peter

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Damn! You are getting spanked hard! Are you under 25? I am 35 and pay $600 per > year for my 1999-1/2 Audi A4 2.8 Quattro with all options on the beast. I live > in San Diego, CA. I guess it just sucks to live in Philly……

Response:

I just bought a 2000 A4 2.8 Quattro, and the insurance for all the same coverages that a leasing company would require costs me $485/year.  Of course, I am 35, no accidents (so far), live in Northern VA, garage the car, and use it largely to get back and forth to work (10 miles each way).

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Harvey is absolutely right — there are MANY factors which figure into car > insurance.  The car is probably the least of them. > Case in point… I am a 26 year old male, living in Staten Island (we > haven’t defected yet, so we’re still part of NYC  :-) and I have a clean > driving record. > I just finished leasing an Acura Integra GS-R, which was costing me > $3400/year. > I am taking delivery of a ‘98 A4 1.8tq TOMORROW (I can’t wait   and it > is going to cost me $2200/year to insure it, for the same exact coverage. > If I moved to upstate NY, the rate would be about half that. > If I get married, I’ll save another 20%… > Nah, it’s cheaper to stay single !!  And I can have more fun in my Audi. > Also keep in mind that different insurance companies rate cars differently. > I am switing from Allstate to State Farm to insure the Audi because it is > considerably cheaper.  Allstate wanted to charge me $2600/year for the Audi. > However, Progressive, who would have been cheaper with the Integra, wanted > nearly $4000/year to insure the Audi.  I can’t figure it out. > — Peter > What a question! Or: What, a question? > It depends on how old you (or other drivers) are, where you live, if you > use the > car for business of pleasure, how many miles you drive per year, and other > myriad of questions the insurance industry can dream up to minimize their > exposure. > For instance, if you live in the NYC area and you’re under 25, it’ll cost > you > $2700 – $3000/yr for basic get-it-on-the-road insurance. If you’re a > little old > lady and live in Arizona, and you put 6000 miles/yr on the car, I’ll bet > it > would be $500/yr. The latter would be the best possible circumstances. > Harvey > > Hi! > > How much (ballpark figure) would insurance for an A4 (99 or 98) cost > > a year, provided best possible circumstances? Any ideas? > > Thanks. > > Oliver

Response:

Thanks for all your input. In actuality, I’m a German citizen living in the US. Indeed, all your hints and comments are relevant to me. Thanks again. Oliver – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> If the poster wants accurate data, I would suspect he’d know what to do. The > information is as irrelevant as his post, no? > > This gentleman appears to be posting from Germany, > > so all of your advice about auto insurance in the US > > is irrelevant. > No, I think he was asking some questions about auto insurance which > would be better directed toward those of our fellow alt.autos.audi posters

Response:

> If the poster wants accurate data, I would suspect he’d know what to do. The > information is as irrelevant as his post, no? > I don’t recognize his server, but now I’m guessing it’s Denmark. > H > This gentleman appears to be posting from Germany, > so all of your advice about auto insurance in the US > is irrelevant.

No, I think he was asking some questions about auto insurance which would be better directed toward those of our fellow alt.autos.audi posters who live in Germany  or within the EC.  Driving conditions and insurance rate structures are *radically different* there than in the US. I thought to suggest that a lot of folks were giving advice which might seem irrelevant to the person posting the question.  I was not trying to be caustic or to hurt anyone’s feelings:  I just think that many of my fellow Americans are a little too ‘US-centric’ when they post on the ‘Net, which is an international forum.  (Example:  A guy who posted about a recent car-jacking incident on the Quattro List was asked for the city and state where this took place. He posted with an e-mail address ending in ‘.za,’ which is South Africa, and someone finally pointed that out to the other members of the Q-List.) As to the location of the guy asking about insurance, an e-mail address ending in ‘.de’ belongs to someone posting from germany. (DE = Deutschland.)  Danish e-mail addresses end with ‘.dk.’ Rgds, Roger Hirsch

Response:

In the "you get what you pay for" category, check out auto insurance from Chubb. They have an "agreed value" policy that covers the gaps in your lease and also specifies that you can use manufacturers replacement parts. It also doesn’t depreciate things like tires or batteries in the event of a loss – hence, no out of pocket expenses at the body shop and no hassle if you have a claim. It costs a little more but is well worth it.                                               Alan Wonsowski

Response:

This gentleman appears to be posting from Germany, so all of your advice about auto insurance in the US is irrelevant.

Response:

If the poster wants accurate data, I would suspect he’d know what to do. The information is as irrelevant as his post, no? I don’t recognize his server, but now I’m guessing it’s Denmark. H > This gentleman appears to be posting from Germany, > so all of your advice about auto insurance in the US > is irrelevant.

– http://www.westnet.com/~harvey/

Response:

Hi! How much (ballpark figure) would insurance for an A4 (99 or 98) cost a year, provided best possible circumstances? Any ideas? Thanks. Oliver

Response:

What a question! Or: What, a question? It depends on how old you (or other drivers) are, where you live, if you use the car for business of pleasure, how many miles you drive per year, and other myriad of questions the insurance industry can dream up to minimize their exposure. For instance, if you live in the NYC area and you’re under 25, it’ll cost you $2700 – $3000/yr for basic get-it-on-the-road insurance. If you’re a little old lady and live in Arizona, and you put 6000 miles/yr on the car, I’ll bet it would be $500/yr. The latter would be the best possible circumstances. Harvey – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Hi! > How much (ballpark figure) would insurance for an A4 (99 or 98) cost > a year, provided best possible circumstances? Any ideas? > Thanks. > Oliver

Response:

Harvey is absolutely right — there are MANY factors which figure into car insurance.  The car is probably the least of them. Case in point… I am a 26 year old male, living in Staten Island (we haven’t defected yet, so we’re still part of NYC  :-) and I have a clean driving record. I just finished leasing an Acura Integra GS-R, which was costing me $3400/year. I am taking delivery of a ‘98 A4 1.8tq TOMORROW (I can’t wait   and it is going to cost me $2200/year to insure it, for the same exact coverage. If I moved to upstate NY, the rate would be about half that. If I get married, I’ll save another 20%… Nah, it’s cheaper to stay single !!  And I can have more fun in my Audi. Also keep in mind that different insurance companies rate cars differently. I am switing from Allstate to State Farm to insure the Audi because it is considerably cheaper.  Allstate wanted to charge me $2600/year for the Audi. However, Progressive, who would have been cheaper with the Integra, wanted nearly $4000/year to insure the Audi.  I can’t figure it out. — Peter

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> What a question! Or: What, a question? > It depends on how old you (or other drivers) are, where you live, if you use the > car for business of pleasure, how many miles you drive per year, and other > myriad of questions the insurance industry can dream up to minimize their > exposure. > For instance, if you live in the NYC area and you’re under 25, it’ll cost you > $2700 – $3000/yr for basic get-it-on-the-road insurance. If you’re a little old > lady and live in Arizona, and you put 6000 miles/yr on the car, I’ll bet it > would be $500/yr. The latter would be the best possible circumstances. > Harvey > Hi! > How much (ballpark figure) would insurance for an A4 (99 or 98) cost > a year, provided best possible circumstances? Any ideas? > Thanks. > Oliver

Response:

Question:

<<I guess yuo haven’t driven my Audi!>> What model/year do you own?

Response:

1995 Chevrolet Impala SS (limited production car) Dark-Green-Gray Exterior Gray Leather Interior 275 Horsepower (with custom air intake) 5.7 Liter LT1 V8 17" Aluminum Wheels 255/50 ZR-Rated Tires Performance Friction Brakes Garage Kept — Original Owner 57,000 miles Boston Acoustics Speakers Custom-Installed Celluar Phone Loaded (air cond., power everything) Thanks, ~Randy

Response:

Randy, I’m curious as to why you posted this in the Audi newsgroup. I’m guessing that if anyone in here wanted a big, ugly, slow, gas-guzzling boat, they would already have one and not be perusing the Audi NG. I’m not saying your car isn’t the neatest, best-kept ride on the planet, but I would guess that you won’t get ANY replies from European car-based USENET NG’s.  Just a guess. Eric ‘90 Audi 80q, et. al. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->1995 Chevrolet Impala SS (limited production car) >Dark-Green-Gray Exterior >Gray Leather Interior >275 Horsepower (with custom air intake) >5.7 Liter LT1 V8 >17" Aluminum Wheels >255/50 ZR-Rated Tires >Performance Friction Brakes >Garage Kept — Original Owner >57,000 miles >Boston Acoustics Speakers >Custom-Installed Celluar Phone >Loaded (air cond., power everything) >Thanks, >~Randy

Response:

is this not a audi newsgroup?? just making sure,  if wanted to buy an ugly peice of  scrap metal i would goto  alt.pos.wreckingyards.chevrogay – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >1995 Chevrolet Impala SS (limited production car) >Dark-Green-Gray Exterior >Gray Leather Interior >275 Horsepower (with custom air intake) >5.7 Liter LT1 V8 >17" Aluminum Wheels >255/50 ZR-Rated Tires >Performance Friction Brakes >Garage Kept — Original Owner >57,000 miles >Boston Acoustics Speakers >Custom-Installed Celluar Phone >Loaded (air cond., power everything) >Thanks, >~Randy

Response:

While I agree with the last two posters that this message probably belongs in another group I must take exception to their rather narrow lack of understanding or appreciation of alternative automobiles.  While I’ll agree that the Impala SS may not be for everyone, but what car is, it is by no means slow.  It is a modern car built in the tradition of American street legal hot rods and it moves in a very impressive manner for it’s bulk.  As far as I know there is no Audi sold in America that can outrun the  Impala SS (and that includes the upcoming A6 V8) with it’s Corvette engine (and in later years the SS stepped up to 300 horses).  Sure it’s not as refined as an Audi but it certainly has it’s virtues. -rdo

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> is this not a audi newsgroup?? just making sure,  if wanted to buy an ugly > peice of  scrap metal i would goto  alt.pos.wreckingyards.chevrogay >1995 Chevrolet Impala SS (limited production car) >Dark-Green-Gray Exterior >Gray Leather Interior >275 Horsepower (with custom air intake) >5.7 Liter LT1 V8 >17" Aluminum Wheels >255/50 ZR-Rated Tires >Performance Friction Brakes >Garage Kept — Original Owner >57,000 miles >Boston Acoustics Speakers >Custom-Installed Celluar Phone >Loaded (air cond., power everything) >Thanks, >~Randy

Response:

<<As far as I know there is no Audi sold in America that can outrun the  Impala SS (and that includes the upcoming A6 V8) with it’s Corvette engine (and in later years the SS stepped up to 300 horses). >> Actually, the Impala’s engine isn’t exactly like the Vette’s. The Camaro, Firebird, TransAm, Corvette, and Impala, all shared an almost identical version of the big LS1 V8 at one point. But minor differances in each version kept the cars seperated. The Camro-TransAm have one version, the Impala had a 2nd version, and the Corvette has the supreme version of the LS1. I don’t theink the Impala, in it’s later years, ever actually had 300hp, but in a car that large, heavy, and relitively un-aerodynamical, the 265+hp it did have were needed to get viable performance out of it. And actually, compared to an Audi, the Impala is kinda slow. Even the newly re-relesed one isn’t quite as fast.

Response:

THe new one has been moved to front wheeld drive.. making it no muscle car…. In addition even the last generation impala’s (before the new ones that are coming out in 2000) were slow cars.  0-60 in the last generation Impala SS’s took about 6.7 seconds.  That is slower than the Audi A8 by .7 seconds.  Even the Volvo S70 T-5 can beat an Impala… (0-60 in 6.1 seconds) Chris

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> <<As > far as I know there is no Audi sold in America that can outrun the  Impala > SS (and that includes the upcoming A6 V8) with it’s Corvette engine (and in > later years the SS stepped up to 300 horses). >> > Actually, the Impala’s engine isn’t exactly like the Vette’s. The Camaro, > Firebird, TransAm, Corvette, and Impala, all shared an almost identical version > of the big LS1 V8 at one point. But minor differances in each version kept the > cars seperated. The Camro-TransAm have one version, the Impala had a 2nd > version, and the Corvette has the supreme version of the LS1. I don’t theink > the Impala, in it’s later years, ever actually had 300hp, but in a car that > large, heavy, and relitively un-aerodynamical, the 265+hp it did have were > needed to get viable performance out of it. And actually, compared to an Audi, > the Impala is kinda slow. Even the newly re-relesed one isn’t quite as

fast.

Response:

So you’re saying the A8 hits 60 mph in 6.0 seconds?  I most certainly can’t say this is wrong since I’m not at home and don’t have access to my reference sources but I never realized the A8 was capable of hitting 60 mph in 6.0 seconds with an automatic tranny.  Where did this number come from? My gut says this is off given my limited experience with the A8 (4.2 Quattro). Unless my A8 experience was atypical, I’m afraid you just made my point regarding the fact that the Impala at 6.7 seconds is faster than any Audi sold here in the US (even the soon to be introduced to the U.S. A6 V8 is quoted at 6.7 seconds by Road & Track). Regarding the Volvo, well it is the fastest automatic in its class and has been (850 Turbo) for the past 5 years so saying it can beat an Impala doesn’t disgrace the Impala one bit. By the way, from what I read on a the window sticker, the final year Impala (1997?) did have 300 horses.  The new Impala has nothing to do with its predecessor.  As noted earlier it’s a front-wheel driver and there is no SS introduction date slated yet. For what it’s worth I still wouldn’t want one but to call 0-60 in 6.7 seconds with an automatic, not to mention a car of this weight, is maddeningly silly! -rdo

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> THe new one has been moved to front wheeld drive.. making it no muscle > car…. In addition even the last generation impala’s (before the new ones > that are coming out in 2000) were slow cars.  0-60 in the last generation > Impala SS’s took about 6.7 seconds.  That is slower than the Audi A8 by .7 > seconds.  Even the Volvo S70 T-5 can beat an Impala… (0-60 in 6.1 seconds) > Chris > <<As > far as I know there is no Audi sold in America that can outrun the Impala > SS (and that includes the upcoming A6 V8) with it’s Corvette engine (and > in > later years the SS stepped up to 300 horses). >> > Actually, the Impala’s engine isn’t exactly like the Vette’s. The Camaro, > Firebird, TransAm, Corvette, and Impala, all shared an almost identical > version > of the big LS1 V8 at one point. But minor differances in each version kept > the > cars seperated. The Camro-TransAm have one version, the Impala had a 2nd > version, and the Corvette has the supreme version of the LS1. I don’t > theink > the Impala, in it’s later years, ever actually had 300hp, but in a car > that > large, heavy, and relitively un-aerodynamical, the 265+hp it did have were > needed to get viable performance out of it. And actually, compared to an > Audi, > the Impala is kinda slow. Even the newly re-relesed one isn’t quite as > fast.

Response:

Everyone check out http://www.audiusa.com/family/a8/features.htm Unless I’m very confused, which is entirely possible, as I’m very tired right now, Audis site at the above adress has 0-60 times, but they don’t seem correct….

Response:

> version, and the Corvette has the supreme version of the LS1. I don’t theink > the Impala, in it’s later years, ever actually had 300hp, but in a car that > large, heavy, and relitively un-aerodynamical, the 265+hp it did have were > needed to get viable performance out of it. And actually, compared to an Audi, > the Impala is kinda slow. Even the newly re-relesed one isn’t quite as fast.

Have you driven the Impala to state this? I test drove one in 96 before I bought an Audi, I can say if nothing else it is definitely faster than any Audi that I’ve driven, and it handles too! The only reason I didn’t buy it was the 2 star passenger side rating for crash tests. Xudong Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.

Response:

<<Have you driven the Impala to state this? I test drove one in 96 before I bought an Audi, I can say if nothing else it is definitely faster than any Audi that I’ve driven, and it handles too! The only reason I didn’t buy it was the 2 star passenger side rating for crash tests. Oh, I’ve driven a couple of SS ones, and they certainly wouldn’t out perform any Audi I’ve driven before.

Response:

> <<Have you driven the Impala to state this? I test drove one in 96 before > I bought an Audi, I can say if nothing else it is definitely faster > than any Audi that I’ve driven, and it handles too! The only reason > I didn’t buy it was the 2 star passenger side rating for crash tests. > Oh, I’ve driven a couple of SS ones, and they certainly wouldn’t out perform > any Audi I’ve driven before.

I guess yuo haven’t driven my Audi!

Response:

Question:

All new TT’s (both the 180 and 225HP version) that are delivered now come with small spoilers and a revised suspension.  In the future, all cars delivered in the U.S. will also have ESP available.  For cars delivered earlier without the spoiler and revised suspension, Audi is offering a retrofit.  Suposedly they will also offer a retrofit to add ESP later (they are not doing this yet in the U.S. and there has been some discussion about whether they will do it at all).  If you check out the TT forum on Audiworld there is lots of discussion and reference to articles written about all of this.  Personally, I am happy to have a non-ESP 225HP roadster, especially since I don’t plan on stomping on the brakes while going 100 mph into a turn (which is apparently what it took – according to the documentation that I have read – to get these cars to "misbehave.")  Bottom line:  you cannot outsmart the laws of physics.  One other note:  in an article that compared ESP to non-ESP equipped cars, invoking the ESP on a sharp turn at high speed was likened to the feeling of actually being in an accident.  I guess the good part is that the car didn’t end up doing a 180 degree turn as it would have without it.  So far from other TT owners I’ve talked to it sounds like a 50-50 split or so on whether or not to take a retrofit on the ESP if offered.

> I have an s4 myself and am happier that a pig in shit. However a friend > of mine who says ge knows audis told me that there is a very serious > problem with the reae suspension. All european TT’s have been > recaled.Any one heard anything?

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Response:

in europe there were lots of serious accident with TT (one dead in jully 1999) so they put the ESP on each TT and a small becquet to keep the car on the road. if you want more infos about Audi, go to my site: http://avus.free.fr mark tyson a

Question:

Here are some times to fire up the discussion: BMW fans say that the RS4 has never clocked 8min 10 on Nurburgring but has clocked 8 min 22 where the e46 M3 clocked 8min 10. According to other tests, the E46 M3 fits in at 8 min 20 along the M5 and the old M3. Check this out 7,55 = 157 km/h Robert Nearn, Caterham R500. 7,56 = 157 km/h Walther R

Question:

> Hello >          I test drive a CRV-2000 model in the Honda Dealership and found > that it is very noisy in the interior.

Compared to what? > There was some discussion in the > edmunds site about this. The brochure says that they have added sound > damping materials but apparently it seems not.

Why?   Did you compare it to a before-improvement model and heard no difference? > The passport in fact > has a lower sound level than the CRV

Yea… it’s a bigger vehicle with more sound proofing… > but the passports styling in > the interior is 10 years behind.

it’s an Isuzu. >         I am also considering the Lexus RX300 which is atleast 15K > more. People say it is very quiet and well engineered.

Of course, it’s a Lexus, and it’s $15K more… >         If any of you have any first hand experience with the CRV-2K, > pl. share your thoughts. I need to decide whether to go with CRV > or the Lexus (which is going to seriously bite my finances) or settle > for some other car.

If you can afford it, get the Lexus. > Thanking you > Regards > Siva R.

– Lee Cao – www.leecao.com

Response:

Alex…..wake up! He is comparing them because he is divided over which one to buy, and he knows they are $15k apart and has asked for some advice or criticisms, to push him to either side of the fence! The question is:   Do you have any advice for this guy , so you can guide his purchase decision? Whewwwwwwww! ….I didnt think so! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >You can not compare the CRV and the RX300. Like you said, they’re at least >$15K apart. If you want to compare a Honda CRV and something with Toyota or >Lexus, it should be the RAV4. >Alex > Hello >          I test drive a CRV-2000 model in the Honda Dealership and found > that it is very noisy in the interior. There was some discussion in the > edmunds site about this. The brochure says that they have added sound > damping materials but apparently it seems not. The passport in fact > has a lower sound level than the CRV but the passports styling in > the interior is 10 years behind. >         I am also considering the Lexus RX300 which is atleast 15K > more. People say it is very quiet and well engineered. >         If any of you have any first hand experience with the CRV-2K, > pl. share your thoughts. I need to decide whether to go with CRV > or the Lexus (which is going to seriously bite my finances) or settle > for some other car. > Thanking you > Regards > Siva R.

Response:

:         If any of you have any first hand experience with the CRV-2K, : pl. share your thoughts. I need to decide whether to go with CRV : or the Lexus (which is going to seriously bite my finances) or settle : for some other car. First, the Passport is an Isuzu engineered and built truck. The RX300 and CR-V are both station wagons with raised platforms. However, from what I have read of your post, if you can afford an RX300, go with the RX300 (that is, if you can get your hands on one. They’re very hard to get.), but be prepared for a markup. The CR-V does have extra sound deadening material, but it’s essentially a raised (bad) and even more un-aerodynamic Civic, which means that wind noise is inevitable. And given Honda isn’t well known for mind-numbing quiet, as Toyota and Lexus are, the noise levels are undoubtably high. I believe Honda has already made efforts to reduce the noise in the CR-V cabin, and should be commended for it. I am not sure what your motives are for getting an SUV. If it’s for the sake of an SUV, and you can afford an RX300, go with the RX300. If it’s for extra safety or 4WD or cargo space, there are better alternatives, such as any Subaru offering or AWD cars and station wagons from many automakers.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >:         If any of you have any first hand experience with the CRV-2K, >: pl. share your thoughts. I need to decide whether to go with CRV >: or the Lexus (which is going to seriously bite my finances) or settle >: for some other car. >First, the Passport is an Isuzu engineered and built truck. The RX300 and >CR-V are both station wagons with raised platforms. >I am not sure what your motives are for getting an SUV. If it’s for the sake >of an SUV, and you can afford an RX300, go with the RX300. If it’s for extra >safety or 4WD or cargo space, there are better alternatives, such as any >Subaru offering or AWD cars and station wagons from many automakers.

   I think you should approach your decision from a  style,looks and resale value, and future retirement perspective. Consumer Reports has a New Car Buying Guide out on the Magazine Racks Now, If you can truly afford the Lexus, and your satisified with the amount of money you have set aside for retirement, …..AND if the Lexus Rx300 doesnt depreciate as Much as a CRV, then there’s your decision!!!! Afterall, the Lexus RX300 is heads and shoulders above the CRV in the Looks and Class and hardware arena!!

Response:

If you’re bent on going the SUV route, and you want it to be quiet and smooth riding, go with the Lexus. I’ve driven one and they are the quietest and smoothest riding of the current crop of SUV’s. Compared to the ES300 though the RX300 is smaller inside, rougher riding, noiser, rattles and costs more. You have to understand that SUV’s have these very real drawbacks. I say look into a Passat or Audi A4 wagon with AWD. Same space, all-wheel-drive safety in a much better overall package. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >Hello >         I test drive a CRV-2000 model in the Honda Dealership and found >that it is very noisy in the interior. There was some discussion in the >edmunds site about this. The brochure says that they have added sound >damping materials but apparently it seems not. The passport in fact >has a lower sound level than the CRV but the passports styling in >the interior is 10 years behind. >        I am also considering the Lexus RX300 which is atleast 15K >more. People say it is very quiet and well engineered. >        If any of you have any first hand experience with the CRV-2K, >pl. share your thoughts. I need to decide whether to go with CRV >or the Lexus (which is going to seriously bite my finances) or settle >for some other car. >Thanking you >Regards >Siva R.

Response:

You can not compare the CRV and the RX300. Like you said, they’re at least $15K apart. If you want to compare a Honda CRV and something with Toyota or Lexus, it should be the RAV4. Alex

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hello >          I test drive a CRV-2000 model in the Honda Dealership and found > that it is very noisy in the interior. There was some discussion in the > edmunds site about this. The brochure says that they have added sound > damping materials but apparently it seems not. The passport in fact > has a lower sound level than the CRV but the passports styling in > the interior is 10 years behind. >         I am also considering the Lexus RX300 which is atleast 15K > more. People say it is very quiet and well engineered. >         If any of you have any first hand experience with the CRV-2K, > pl. share your thoughts. I need to decide whether to go with CRV > or the Lexus (which is going to seriously bite my finances) or settle > for some other car. > Thanking you > Regards > Siva R.

Response:

Hello          I test drive a CRV-2000 model in the Honda Dealership and found that it is very noisy in the interior. There was some discussion in the edmunds site about this. The brochure says that they have added sound damping materials but apparently it seems not. The passport in fact has a lower sound level than the CRV but the passports styling in the interior is 10 years behind.         I am also considering the Lexus RX300 which is atleast 15K more. People say it is very quiet and well engineered.         If any of you have any first hand experience with the CRV-2K, pl. share your thoughts. I need to decide whether to go with CRV or the Lexus (which is going to seriously bite my finances) or settle for some other car. Thanking you Regards Siva R.

Response:

Buy the Lexus, you two deserve each other.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hello >          I test drive a CRV-2000 model in the Honda Dealership and found > that it is very noisy in the interior. There was some discussion in the > edmunds site about this. The brochure says that they have added sound > damping materials but apparently it seems not. The passport in fact > has a lower sound level than the CRV but the passports styling in > the interior is 10 years behind. >         I am also considering the Lexus RX300 which is atleast 15K > more. People say it is very quiet and well engineered. >         If any of you have any first hand experience with the CRV-2K, > pl. share your thoughts. I need to decide whether to go with CRV > or the Lexus (which is going to seriously bite my finances) or settle > for some other car. > Thanking you > Regards > Siva R.

Response: