Audi A4 Quattro

'96 Audi A4 Quattro
The Audi A4 Quattro wundercar continues to impress us with its luxurious trappings and ultracompetitive as-tested price. Although the 2.8-liter/172-horse V-6 and five-speed automatic transmission combine to deliver a rather sedate 9.5-second 0-60-mph time, the composed Quattro driveline feels capable of doling out even more power to all four wheels. The anti-lock disc brakes provide brief, predictable stops, but coat the front 16-inch alloy wheels with lots of brake dust. Logbook entries rave about the richly textured dash, sport steering wheel, and genuine walnut trim; however, there seems to be a steep learning curve for mastering the stereo and climate controls. The leatherette-upholstered, mildly bolstered seats have met with favorable reviews, with the exception of one editor who would prefer more lumbar support. A few full-size passengers have also found the back seat confining. The ersatz "shaved rhesus monkey fur" armrests already are beginning to show signs of wear, leaving us questioning why they weren't covered in the more durable pseudo leather.