1990 Audi V8 Quattro review from North America
"A German bullet train with character to spare"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Water Pump seized at 107k miles stripping 14 teeth off the timing belt.
Check engine light on. Diagnostics indicates oxygen sensor.
Speedometer & tachometer have a life of their own.
Driver seat bum warmer not working.
General comments?
I had the 90k mile service performed right after acquiring the car at a local independent Audi shop. Basically amounted to a tune up, oil change, and new oxygen sensor. Cost was $400.00. I figured that was fairly reasonable. I had them check the condition of the timing belt, which showed fairly new. Records indicate that it was changed at 70k miles.
Water pump seized while driving along about 30 mph, at about 2200 rpm. Haven't really had a chance to check damage to valves; hoping not a whole lot of damage.
I miss my Audi. It's been sitting in the garage for about 5 months now - don't really have the money to fix it at this time.
An incredible car to drive. Yes, around town acceleration is somewhat sluggish, but definitely comes into its own out on the open road. Have had the cruise set at 125 mph for about 20 miles. Wonderful, secure feeling. Garnered a lot of dirty looks from other drivers, but oh well...
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![]() ![]() | Should be driven on the Autobahn daily |
![]() ![]() | The most outstanding car I've ever driven |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.6 Litre V8 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 7/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 1/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 90000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 107000 miles |
| Previous car | Mercedes-Benz S-Class |
| Date of Entry | 23rd July, 2004 |

