Audi B8.5 S4 v Mk7 Golf R

[Redwatches]

Audi S4 v Golf R

It’s time to change cars and my other half has given me the green light to spend a little more than usual on my next car.

I was first thinking of the Golf R in 5 door guise with a DSG box. 4 wheel drive, DSG box, 0-60 time – what’s not to like!

However, given that I’m in my late 40’s, and possibly a super hot hatch might not always fit the bill for shuttling around my 4 year old an her loyal canine companion, I started to research the Audi S4. Now that the model is coming up for replacement there seem to be some cracking deals via the Brokers and within the same price territory as a Golf R.

I've done the usual research and mental arguments with myself about depreciation, fuel economy, different driving styles, serving costs etc. and while I have successfully argued myself firmly into the S4 camp (who wouldn't want to say “fire up the Quattro” :-)), one matter does give me a little concern.

By buying the S4 am I buying old technology that will quickly look outdated esp. against the likes of the Golf R and the S4’s replacement?

Which ever car is chosen, it will be used for a the daily commute (circa 15 miles), the odd spirited drive and the occasional driving holiday. I would estimate to do no more than 8,000 miles a year and that car will not be tracked.

Comfort is a consideration and with the S4 I intend to spec Drive Select and the adaptive dampers.

I am intending to buy outright, unless there is a compelling reason to go the PCP route, and I intend to keep the car for at least 4 , possible 5 years.

Any and all opinions welcomed esp. from those that have considered/owned/own both these cars.

Thanks

Michael

[Redwatches]

M

theboyfold said:

This is exactly the same position as me (aside from my age, the age of my kids and the fact I don't have a dog!)

Try CarWow for prices, they have offered around £8500 off a nice spec S4 Avant Black Edition for me.

I've managed, for a Saloon and via Carwow, a discount of 13% and just shy of 19% for a PCP deal including the Dealer/Audi contribution of £5k. Similar quotes via Orangewheels and DrivetheDeal.

[Redwatches]

Avalyn said:

Hopefully I can help .. I have a 2014 S3 Sportback (S-tronic), and have just placed an order for an S4 saloon. The S3 won't be too far away from the Golf R in day to day driving experiences.

The S3 feels like a hot hatch, it's quick, sounds errrm OK from it's 4 cylinder engine, I'm getting @ 26 mpg combined and will see 35 on a typical dual carriageway run. Lovely minimalist interior.

The S4 feels like a class above, although very similar in terms of pace, the v6 supercharged engine kicks the 4 pot into the dust for response, noise and a feeling of class. The interior also feels weightier, still very classy, and although I too worry it's not as modern, once you sit in it oozes class and quality. I really couldn't differentiate between the actual functionality of the MMI system between both cars.

I much prefer the feeling of the torsen diff to haldex, and I've also gone for the sports differential.

I managed to get @18% discount from my local dealer without much effort.

I'm changing my S3 as I wanted a better noise, feeling of luxury and class. You can feel that it's a step up in terms of size, audience etc.

S4 for me.

Can I ask, is the 18% for an outright cash purchase or for leasing via Audi PCP and what delivery time where you quoted?

Thanks

Micahel

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theboyfold said:

My dealer quoted me today and I asked if the order book was closed and he said he was still able to order as of today.

Just spoken to my 1st choice dealer only to be told "you've missed the boat". I'm e-mailing my second choice, but only problem is he's over 400 miles away :-)!!!!