A4 or A6

[Elroy Blue]

I've been looking closely at the A4 S Line recently and have realised that an A6 can be had cheaper for the same age (around 6 months old) and is usually better specced.

An s Line A6 comes with sat nav and leather and the LE Mans version looks very nice. Thing is, I know absolutely nothing about the A6. Do all A6s come with sat nav. Is the 2.0d (which is 170hp in the Le Mans) a suitable engine for it, as I couldn't stretch to a nearly new bigger engined version.

Would servicing costs be the same for both cars, or is the A6 more expensive. Any other issues I should know about??

So many questions!!! Any pointers gratefully received.

[993_C2S]

The (mildly) facelifted A6 (came in about a year ago) offers the 2.0TDI as a 140 and 170bhp. Go for the 170, as the 140 is inadequate.

You will be getting alot more for your money with an A6, and it's significantly bigger than the A4. A4 will be a sharper drive though.

All A6 models for at least the last year have been offered with sat nav (as an offer), so if you're considering a recent/facelifted A6 170 you will have the sat nav. Le Mans version adds more extras and do look very nice.

HTH

[blueg33]

I have a 3.0tdi A6 Le Mans and to my mind its miles better than the A4 until I am looking for a parking space!

I felt that the 2.0 was under powered but then its down to what you are used to and what you want. The 3.0tdi just has enough power for me, but then its the lowest bhp of all the cars in the household!

Do not expect handling on a par with say a 5 series BMW, and with the 2 wheel drive versions do expect plenty of understeer.

I think thyere are different levels of sat nav and it depends what year you are buying as to what you get. Certainly in 2007 the 2.0 had basic nav whilst the bigger engines only had nav as an option. The best nav is the high spec with hard drive in the boot.

[Elroy Blue]

The prices certainly look attractive. It's the life costs that concern me a bit. Audi servicing is expensive enough as it is. Do they load the A6 costs because it's an 'executive' car. (Mine's just for the family)

Another odd thing I've noticed. From the pictures I've seen, they have a dash mounted ignition, but it appears to be a 'normal' key, rather than an A4 style one. Doesn't quite look right!

I'm going to arrange a test drive in one. Looked at one on a forecourt. Liked it, but facing the dilemma of whether it's a bit bigger than I really need.

[blueg33]

Shop around for a servicing. My last service was at 58k miles 4 quotes ranging from £240 to £560. I dont think an A4 is any cheaper. But note, some engines (not the 3.0tdi) require a cam belt that means removing the whole front end of the car.

[Elroy Blue]

The 2.0d (which is the one I'd get) has a cam belt at 5 years. I am simply never going to be able to keep a car that long!! (Much to 'er indoors disgust)

[blueg33]

Elroy Blue said:

The 2.0d (which is the one I'd get) has a cam belt at 5 years. I am simply never going to be able to keep a car that long!! (Much to 'er indoors disgust)

Thats what I thought. My A6 was for 2 year max, its now 3 years old and I cant see me changing it in a hurry

[Elroy Blue]

One other issue is the impending replacement of the A6 next year. Bound to have a big affect on residuals. Something to think about as the A6 doesn't hold onto its value at the best of times.

Also, reading reviews, there seems to be an issue regarding oil consumption on the 2.0d models. Something underlying issue to worry about, or isolated problems?

Edited by Elroy Blue on Monday 22 March 11:23