1996-2001 Audi A4

It's safe to say that Audi recovered from its near-death experience in the 1980s with renewed vigor and sense of purpose--its excellent product is proof of the company's resurgence. Perhaps no model better illustrates Audi's strengths than the previous-generation A4, which replaced the 90 in 1996.

A genuine BMW 3 Series competitor (in size if not strictly so in prestige), the A4 bowed with a 172-horsepower, 2.8-liter V-6 under its sleek cowl. It gained a feisty 150-horsepower, 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder the next year. With five valves per cylinder and a barrel-chested torque curve, the 1.8T became the enthusiast's choice. For 1998, the V-6 received five-valve heads and a boost to 190 horsepower, while the 1.8T stepped to 170 horsepower for 2001. These two engines carried the A4 until it was redesigned for 2002, mated to either a five-speed manual or an automatic--a five-speed Tiptronic box with the V-6. Audi made friends in the snowbelt by offering its quattro all-wheel-drive system as an option regardless of powerplant.

Starting with a sedan, the A4 line grew to include the much-loved Avant wagon in 1998, boasting more room yet riding on the same 103-inch wheelbase. The Avant was available with the V-6 only the first year and the 1.8T as well starting in 1999. Audi dropped a bomb the next year with the wicked, twin-turbocharged S4 sedan to be joined in 2001 by the S4 Avant. Standard with all-wheel drive and a six-speed manual (autobox optional), the S4's 250 horsepower vaulted the platform into the big leagues (or at least AAA), and the Avant made every enthusiast with kids positively giddy. Still, this is a compact platform--the A4's rear-seat room is often criticized as insufficient.

Mechanically, the A4 appears plenty robust, with the lion's share of reported problems involving the electrical system. Indeed, the only recalls on the vehicle are electrical in nature. A review of technical service bulletins for the A4 show nothing untoward. Look for a complete, documented service history, particularly for the more highly stressed S4. Buy well, and you'll enjoy showing up your 3 Series- and C-Class-driving friends--for a lot less money.