1989 Audi V8 Quattro review from North America

I replaced several engine sensors that failed, and caused the car to die randomly. Parts expensive labor not.

ABS light is on, assumed to be a sensor. Have not replaced.

Have to replace brake booster.

Starter replaced - expensive part, complicated labor.

Rear brake calipers seized, replaced seals, rotors, pads, and cleaned and painted calipers.

Gas tank rusty - leaked - epoxy sealed.

Will have to replace steering rack eventually as the boots are torn. reasonably priced rebuilds available but lots of labor.

Most other issues minor and easy driveway fixes.

For a 14 year old car that cost north of $50k when new, it's held up well. It's corroded a bit underneath from NE winters and salt, but it rides like a sporty tank. It's fast, fits 5 comfortably, has such things as rear seat heaters, and many many more cool standard features.

Gas mileage can be as low as 16 or as high as 26 depending on conditions, has three driving modes for transmission which helps with gas consumption.

It's nicely styled, fast, loaded with features, and nothing under $40k new is close to as tight, comfortable or solid feeling. In fact, most cars at $40k still feel 'tinny' by comparison. And you can find these under $6k all over the web.

BUT, it is expensive to own if you can't do your own work. For those that can do their own basic work (brake pads, gaskets and stuff) it's not so expensive. Dealers are a waste of money, you need to find independents that KNOW EXACTLY what a V8 is. There were only about 3600 in the US, total and it is NOT an A8, it is much sportier and has many different issues.

There is a great and active list on the web to support this model car. www.audifans.com for more details. Lots of people there to help.