I been looking into these cars recently. There doesn't seem to be much information about owning one on the internet (unless you're American). They're cheaper to insure than an M3, and a WRX STI, and the main benefit for me is that if you take the badges off, you can't really tell which model it is, unless you really pay attention.

I don't really fancy having the keys nicked in a burglary you see. Do you know anyone who has one, or have you worked on one. What are the common faults and things to look for in a second hand model? I could probably scrape together enough for a 53 plate with 40 to 50K ont clock.

I've read a lot into the R and S version's from Audi. I think you'll find the S4 to have effortless performance. It's not as hard core as the RS version due to softer suspension etc.

A car i would have..

There's no way I could afford an RS4. I did look into an M3 but the insurance was crazy, plus they are really recognisable and nickable and there's a problem with one of the engine parts.

I don't do that many miles p/a so an S4 might not be as loopy as it sounds. I just need to get some reviews!

You will love the S4 once you've driven it, the sound is terrific. Pop over to one of the Audi sites, there might be an RS forum which would include the S's aswell.

I'd rather an S4 over an M3. Infact, i'd rather an S4 over a hell of alot of things, performance, the comfort and the toys....

Hmmm - S4! :drool: I love the understandment, plus the prospect of V8 power. I would imagine a late 03 or early 04 with maybe 40-50k on it would be around 20-25k. Was this the sort of figure you had in mind?

Steve

OK, here we go. Reviews:

American review, but seemed readable! 2004 Car Review: 2004 Audi S4 Sedan

I know Evo ran an Avant version on their Fast Fleet, and you should find a few of the relevant articles here

Article from Auto Express, on the revised 03 S4, which obviously brought with it V8 power: Audi S4 | Motoring Previews | News | Auto Express

That should keep you going

Steve

Aye. I was hoping for 20K max, but hopefully cheaper. I just love the idea of a 4.2 V8. You just got to own at least one mad car in your life.

Thanks for the links Steve, There's some really useful info there.

Hmm, did see a few on 'Trader for less than 20, but didn't know what sort of miles you were aiming for. At least with replacing the belt for a chain when they dropped it in the A4, you save a bit of maintenance in that department.

In my eyes, the Evo info is of most use, as you get an honest appraisal. MPG would be my main concern, apparently floating in the mid teens if you're 'making progress'. But as you say you're looking to do low mileage, that shouldn't worry you too much and there is that V8 soundtrack

Good luck with the search

Steve

Oh, and are you favoring Saloon or Avant? I'd have to say I'm in the latter camp, just seems to look better to me and you've got added practicality too. But then again I'm not the one in a position to buy

Steve

I'd been looking at saloon TBH, as they are cheaper, but could be tempted by Avant as Mrs R is a wheelchair user, so space is a big requirement.

Well I've always found the saloon boot on that shape A4 to be a decent size, so I can't see you having any problems. Plus, yes, the Avants do seem to keep a 1k premium or so.

Steve

Don't know where in the UK you are, but pulled up details of one in Bucks at 19995. Independant dealer, went on their website but it's listed as sold. The spec is still up though. Does show what's achievable though!

Sales - fontain.co.uk :: the audi specialist ::

Steve

brilliant cars, my dad is lucky enough to own a nice S4. the 4.2 V8 is fantastic, the noise and effortless performance is brilliant, still handles ok too

some can have low spec(usual audi failing) but some can have prett decent spec too but i guess you will pay a slight premium.

as you would expect mpg isnt great but not terrible either, auto box is slightly better in mpg

I've driven quite a few S4's at work and they are brilliant. Makes the S3 look like a silly idea with is 1.8T engine next to the V8. Drive is firm but good, pace is excellent but I agree with most people on that the V8 soundtrack is a pleasure. The S4 cabriolet is even more to be savoured!!!! Burble burble roar!!!!

some can have low spec(usual audi failing) but some can have prett decent spec too but i guess you will pay a slight premium.

I've found that too when looking about - spec varies greatly. Worth holding out for a fully loaded one imho.

yeah all in all if you can afford it, i would! ive earmarked it for my next car

I'm really sorely tempted. I'm gonna wait til March 07 as I'll be in a better position then n see what's bout for the money. If I test drive one now, I know the heart will rule the head and I'll be an S4 owner but wont quite be able to afford it.

The way things are going with taxation and environmentalists, it won't be long before cars like the S4 are a thing of the past. I'd much rather own one now when I'm young(ish) enough to enjoy it than regret not buying one when they're no longer available.

it also may make them cheaper