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I'd lean to the S4. Personal preference, AWD, and some 'intangible' assumptions...but it would be more important to find a good car of either type. So...
A few thoughts, in no particular order and assuming you are somewhat knowledgeable.
With these cars, condition matters a lot. They are costly to fix and maintain. Mileage, maintenance, and hard use are critical to condition. Try to get credible info on maintenance, including who worked on it if possible. Some owners will have records.
Test drive it a while. Know what feels good, sounds good, and what doesn't. Take a friend.
Look underneath for leaks. Cars like this can leak a lot...even then, be sure to check oil regularly til you get the rate.
Electrics and suspensions also can be problems and expensive to repair well.
Ask about drive belts. Look for stickers under the hood and maintenance records/bills.
Paint and interior condition as well as functioning accessories matter too. Little things add up in time and money.
Consider taking it to knowledgeable shop for a check if you aren't savvy yourself.
A one owner car may be preferable if you can find one.
...and as I mentioned above, the S4 will be better winter car if that matters... I'd even consider a nice wagon (Avant) if you can find one.
I have owned 3 Audis new and 2 M3's including an E36.
I'd buy the E36, great car and much simpler car mechanically. Look for the waterpump, radiator replacement and the rear subframe issues. If good, then buy it as they were the main two issues.
I have owned 3 Audis new and 2 M3's including an E36.
I'd buy the E36, great car and much simpler car mechanically. Look for the waterpump, radiator replacement and the rear subframe issues. If good, then buy it as they were the main two issues.
Which one is better on car overall? I would have to say the M3 since NA typically not as thirsty as turbos.
that model of S4 is certainly nice, but the 96-2001 body style had issues with suspension bushings and I would avoid the car unless it was recently fixed.
Which one is better on car overall? I would have to say the M3 since NA typically not as thirsty as turbos.
Is the S4 bi-turbo very thirsty?
It can be, and therefor should be.
Both cars have been around a while, and you should be able to find what you are looking for.
My questions are:
Would the audi be with the turbos?
Do you do your own maintenance? Have your own tools? etc..
Is 8K your max budget, How much do you plan on putting into them on a regular base?
Does this need to be a reliable 2nd vehicle, or nothing but a weekend toy? Part 2. It says you are in New York, Will this be a winter vehicle in any way? (Yes here means audi).
How will you drive it? Is this a strictly weekend toy, maybe a road trip, Will there be a bunch of guys going out partying, are you looking to have fun at street lights, or the track??? etc..
How would you upgrade it??? Speed first, stereo, looks??? etc..
Are you looking for an already modified one the way you want or a stock and your own upgrades? Which mods would you prefer?
They both have well documented, basic problems that don't cost that much to fix, but can turn into big problems. They both have great online communities and forums with a vast amount of information..
If it was a winter car, or I had a family, I would go with the Audi.
If it was just me, and wanted something to take out on backroads during the summer, or wanted my date to feel better, I would go with the BMW.
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