2001 Audi TT 225 Quattro from North America - Comments

Wind noise from side windows (a common problem with this model which has frame-less windows)

The car has a few more rattles and buzzes than one might expect in a $40,000 car.

Rims incredibly easy to scuff.

A small, but substantial car that can't seem to quite decide whether it is a sports car like the Boxster or a sports coupe like the 330ci -- as a result it manages to be both impractical and uncomfortable. However, looks, feels and sounds elusively special, which somewhat makes up for its shortcomings.

Low end power is nonexistent, but the car is very quick once the turbo kicks in over 3000 rpm. Midrange power on the highways is excellent.

Averaging 22.5 mpg in mixed driving, which is worse than one might expect.

Like driving a very small, sleek tank -- outward visibility is remarkably poor.

Interior, exterior detailing is as good as they say. You will never be able to look at or sit in a mainstream Japanese or American car again without feeling slightly disgusted with the mediocrity and apathy of its designers.

Despite the rattles the car has been free of problems during the 8 months I've owned it.

Unbelievable traction on both dry and slippery roads, handles well, but at 3,400 pounds it's surprisingly heavy and thus surprisingly deliberate in its responses.

Considered on its own merits, it's a good car. The fact that it has so much Golf/Jetta/New Beetle DNA in it (and more all the time) rankles. Ultimately, even as an owner I must admit that this car embodies the classic Billy Crystal tagline "it is better to look good than to feel good." The TT is a sweet looker married to a decent, but rather pedestrian powertrain (especially the mildly embarrassing 180 hp fwd coupe which says "I paid $10,000 to have my Beetle Turbo squashed). It's too bad that BMW and Audi can't do a joint venture combining the M Coupe powertrain with the TT body and interior -- now THAT would be a legendary car and not just the flavor of the month.

Very well written!