1990 Audi V8 Quattro review from North America
"Pandora's box with wheels. Think $$$"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Two failed water pumps
Three failed oxygen sensors
One failed brake pressure accumulator
Phone: non functional
Radio has insane cycling heterodyne
Digital features: do you like running out of gas when the computer says you have 200 miles left?
Sunroof: stopped functioning
Tachometer: works intermittently
Heated Seats: non functional
Dealer won't touch it.
General comments?
The Audi V8 Quattro was the first of the technologically challenged Audi's sent over to America. The above failures and problems speak volumes as to the lack of basic quality inherent to this vehicle. All of this at just 75k.
With an original sticker of $50,000, one would hope for a bit more out of this pretentious money-pit that holds its value like a pasta strainer holds water.
No, it's not completely bad. It's really a blast to drive when it's not sick. It handles like a sports car, and it's deceptively quick (a timed run to 60mph took just under 8 seconds). It will effortlessly cruise at 120 plus for as long as you desire. This car was designed for high speed cruising in Europe, and it loves to go fast. Put your foot into it and prepare to spend much of your spare time in traffic court. It exhibits unbelievably handling characteristics in the higher speed ranges.
Unfortunately it suffers from inexcusable quality control, cheap construction, coupled with mind boggling repair costs. The electrical system is legendary for failures, and the subsequent cost of repair will make your eyes bug out. The repair cost for the Tachometer problem was $1500. That's just to see the engine speed, folks. This car has more current problems than all of the other cars I have owned... combined! Your biggest challenge with this car will be finding a mechanic who has the proper tools, and is willing to work on the car.
Yet it continues to run. You know... like a rattlesnake that still bites after it's dead.
Recommended reviews
| I'm ruined for anything else at this point |
|
| An awesome car, but you better know how to use tools, or make a lot of money |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 1990 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 1 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 0 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 48000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 75000 miles |
| Previous car | Volkswagen Scirocco |
| Date of Entry | 1st March, 2003 |