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Morning gents,

Right, I really need your help here.

I'm on the verge of buying an 01 B5 RS4 with 60k on the clock, but I'm having last minute doubts as being a 3 time previous Audi owner (2 x S2 and 1 X RS2) I know exactly what can happen with your bank balance and transportation arrangements if things start going pear shaped. My first S2 didn't give me any problems but this was over 10 years ago, the second was a NIGHTMARE! RS2 was serious fun and about what I expected in terms of upkeep and reliability. Now, the question is: Is the S4 Advant B6 04 plate with an aspirated engine going to cause me less trouble than 01 RS4? I've done my time with cars sitting in garages getting fixed, I have a wife and daughter and need the thing to be as hassle as possible really. Can you please give me some non-bias advice on what you think. I'm fully aware that these things cost money which is not the problem, it's purely down to reliability in direct comparison as its come down to one of the two.

Thanks guys,

J

The big saving will be on parts and servicing as the S4 V8 is chain driven rather than cambelt. Also you do not have any issues with turbos.

It also depends on what you want from the car, the S4 is a quick car, even moreso when modified and the V8 sounds great, but the B5 will give better exclusivity, forced induction shove in the back rather than linear acceleration of a V8. The S4 is perhaps not as dynamic a car either and ultimately less tuneable if that is your thing.

I hope that answers your question?

What mileage on the S4 mate?

Haven't had any really major upsets on mine, the most expensive fault to put right was worn alternator bearings at around 100k (front end off job), second was a new clutch at around 120k IIRC.

If I were you I'd post again in the B5 RS4 forum as I don't follow it closely and have no idea about their reliability.

An educated guess though would place the S4 higher in the reliabilty stakes

I've had both - B6 S4 wins hands down for no-worries ownership. But as everyone else is saying, have to decide what you're looking for it to do for you.

my dad had a b6 s4 when they first came out. He kept it for 3 months before handing it back and swopping it for a b5 RS4..... he still has the rs4!

The origional thread,
http://www.rs246.com/index.php?name=PNp ... ic&t=37636

Owned a B5 remapped S4 Avant for 3 years and sold it with 120k on the clock and still pulling like a horse. I like my new B6 S4 but to be honest I'm bored of it after 5 months. Much preferred the drive with the turbo's, loads more fun . If the RS4 has been well looked after I'd jump at it.
For the record I'm now looking at the RS6 Avant - more car for your money and my insurance quotes weren't bad at all.
Might be worth a thought, best of both worlds - 4.2 V8 and Bi-Turbo...

Dynamically the C5 RS6 it worse than the B5 RS4 and B6 S4 and DRC issues a plenty. The ultimate point and squirt car.

P_G wrote:Dynamically the C5 RS6 it worse than the B5 RS4 and B6 S4 and DRC issues a plenty. The ultimate point and squirt car.

It is , but 2k will see it in a whole new league of handling .....