Newbie - Advice / Opinions

[Millie]

Hello to you all.

I am currently driving an Impreza WR1 (UK limited Edition) this is my 4th Impreza and in the main I cannot fault them ( opinion)

However after driving these cars for the last 5 years I am seriously thinking of changing, wanting similar performance but a better cabin and quality .

The WR1 fig's 320 bhp 310 torque , 0/60 claimed 4.25 I would say more like more like 4.8 / 4.9

I have been looking at M3, Merc SLK 55 AMG. Then I saw the recent press release about the Audi RS4. I have always admiried the Audi especially the RS range, in particular the RS2, which was out of my budget some years ago.

I have read with interest all of the threads that have been posted about this new car, and I fully understand every one has an opinion, however as you guys know the marque and in particular the RS range I would be interested in your comments about this car say against the M3, as I am sure some of you will have driven / owned and M3.

I am also interested in tunning, I could not see anything in this section of the site. Whilst I know this car will be non-turbo, do any of you know of the 4.2 tunning possibilities ? I know for the M3 an exhaust system change can make a marked improvement and add a deeper exhaust note to the sound.

Depreciation concerns me, I have read that numbers will not be limited, but will Audi restrict the numbers coming in to the UK per year ?

I have also read in the auto car article page 37 that the top bosses at Audi are looking at specific suspension settings for UK cars, following many years of criticism from UK car journalists. As an RS can I assume that the suspension has already been sorted or do you think later cars will benefit from any changes ?

I must also add the my first thoughts of the new single piece grill on the A4 did not suit, however this has grown on me and seems to suit the RS4. The wheel arch extensions and the ride height amke the car sit just right ( as an option I beleive it can be further reduced by 10mm )

Any replies will be received gratefully, thanking you in anticipation.

[PhilT]

Hi Millie,

Probably a little early to give specifics, but here are my thoughts:

- The Impreza is a great car. Basic, but an effective point to point weapon. As you have said Audis do tend to have a superior the level of interior quality.
- The new RS4 will have to go some to win hearts away from the M3 CSL. Personally I'd like to know what kind of lap times the new RS4 is putting in at the Nordschleife. Being in the UK (Weather-wise), the upside of the RS cars over the ones you have mentioned would be the 4 wheel drive.
- Tuning options should be available directly from Audi, and therefore will ensure that your warranty is still valid. With the value of the vehicle, and modified vehicle insurance woes, I would seriously consider a vehicle that is acceptable in standard form.
- Production will continue until end of 2007/early 2008. It is unclear as to the numbers for each country, but imports are acceptable options for those who wish to bypass an limits/specs.
- Depreciation. Take a look at the 4.2 S4 prices and that should be a good guide.

Just my 2 cents,

Phil.

[DaveP]

Agree with the above except the CSL part...I don't think the RS4 is targetted at the M3 CSL (although will be very happy if it is comparable!!)

I'd say the CSL was more track oriented, tamed down for the road (in terms of geometry setup)...RS4 will always be a fast road car that is capable on the track.

Like Phil says though, a little early to tell...these are all just opinions at the moment and are worth the paper they're written on

[romario]

Hi Millie,

I too have enjoyed some fun Jap motors, Evo VI, Evo VIII, S2000 and Scooby 22B.
I had actually ordered a WR1 and as I really fancied a changed pretty much immediately, even seeing that model at Autosport Show and being told May delivery was too long, I bought a 2001 MY RS4 B5 instead.
I have also owned Porsches for 7 years and appreciate the German solidity to the build and interior. I'd added some HKS bits to the VI but my disability meant that had to go, but it gave me back my money so cannot complain. I've headed down the tuning route with the RS4 and really enjoy the car more and more with each pound spent on her. I lost a packet on the VIII as Mitsubishi launch new variant so quickly, my B5 has barely depreciated in 18 months!

So rather than a B7 test drive a B5, ideally one with aftermarket suspension, H&R adjustable I found best, GmbH better than stock but not as well suited to UK roads for me.
I love the smoothness of the V6, excellent build quality, the Recaros are excellent. I have a UUC quickshift so the box feels appropriate and the four wheel drive system gives great confidence. The handling isn't a touch on Evo VIII which I slid often, roundabouts, trackdays she ruled, but once OEM Yokos were spent the car never felt the same on replacement rubber.

If nearby pop along to a Meet, I found the chaps in Ascot meet held near end of each month very useful source of knowledge and full of enthusiasm.

I too am keen to try a B7 RS4, sure that'll be impressive too but could you live without the grin factor of turbos???

[Millie]

Thanks for your comments.

I have taken a CSL out but they are too track minded , we are considering changing so we can have a quality interior with the same or better performance.

I has been some while since I have owned a non turbo car, so this is playing on my mind, however when i took a M3 CSL out, I actually said to the salesmans " the car does not feel very quick " then he got me to look at the speedo 135, power was there without that kick, just not used to having power delivered this way ( n/a )

I understand that some dealers will have a show / test car in June, do any of you know if this correct ? May have to wait until then to see what to do.

Will have to make my mind up re my selling the WR1 soon so I can try and get a reasonable price for it.

Will try and attend a meet if possible, will look for the threads.