A4 vs A5

[Ryan_T]

I can't search for this....it's a series of two letter words. If this has been discussed and you know the thread, please share.

Would you ever switch to an A5, knowing what you know about either, and why?

[cory_can]

How about "A4 Avant - No, love the 5 doors". :)

[AofC_RR]

For the extra money, it's not worth it. Lease wise I could have gotten into an S4 for what I would have paid for an A5. Don't get me wrong I LOVE the A5/S5 but at the end of the day both leave me wanting more. If the S5 had the 3.0T in the coupe with a manual I would have sprung for it.

[Greg Nelson]

IMHO it's all about ease of ingress/egress re the rear seat passengers, far easier in the A4 sedan.
That said, the A5 has an undeniable sensual flow to its' body lines
Got friends/kids - A4
Lookin' for ladies - A5
Cheers

[gamer2k]

After owning the car for a bit, I realize that I really don't use the two rear doors, so that leaves me wanting the A5 for its great looks. However I agree with the above poster, for the price of an A5 the S4 is a much better deal...

If the S5 is updated to the supercharged V6 and S-tronic soon, I'd probably really consider trading up. If not, I'll probably just invest in some mods and wait for the next M3.

[Blake P]

Maybe the sportback, but that's not available here so A4 it is!

[NickZag]

When I went to the dealership, I had my heart set on the A5. When I drove away, I was in my A4 and I haven't looked back. While the A5 is a great car, I don't think it looks better then the A4, just a little different. I didn't just buy my A4 for the extra 2 doors, I like the style and functionality of it as well. If I could have done it over again, I would still make the same decision.

[DavidB8]

No, I didn't need the 4 doors, I just think the A4 looks better. That and the functionality of the 4 doors doesn't hurt.

[Turco]

i like the A4 DRL over A5 : - )

[Alkivar]

A5 all the way... but of course I'm biased LOL.

Ryan if you make it down to H2O i'll let you take my car for a spin.

[Okan509]

I love both! think I would get an S4 over an S5, but maybe an A5 over the A4 if I had to do it again?

[MrStuff]

i like the A4 DRL over A5 : - )

+1

[ItsDubC]

I wouldn't trade my A4 for any A5. Aside from the fact that I've put my own stamp on my car, I love sport sedans because they have form, function, and they garner respect from a wider audience when well-executed (IMHO).

This is a very extreme example, but a nice sport sedan is like a woman who's wife material (smart, naturally beautiful, and down-to-earth) among the normal crowd of women. A sport coupe is kinda like a snobby botoxed model among a crowd of other snobby botoxed models.

That being said, the A5 is smarter, naturally prettier, and more down-to-earth than most sport coupes out there (tho a bit less naughty)

[Bairum]

I actually like the A4 more than the A5, although I 'could' biased because I own the A4.

To me, the A4:
- is much more functional, for less. Coming from a 2 door car, I know its a pain in the ass sometimes.
- has perfect lines and shape. Although the A5 looks really good, I prefer the A4.
- costs less for insurance :) (at least with the initial quote I got. Not sure if this is still the case now)
- was the best 'luxury' car with options for my money when I bought.

So far I couldn't be happier with my A4 purchase.

[Zac]

I say S5

[belzebutt]

I like the looks of the A5, I think the curve along the sides and the sleeker back give it a lot more character and presence.

Having said that, it's as impractical as any coupe and I had to get a wagon anyway so it's not like I had a choice.

If the A5/S5 Sportback was available in North America that would be my car of choice (well, maybe after the kids grow up). It looks almost as good as the A5 but it's even more practical than the A4. In fact, the A4 doesn't make a lot of sense to me anymore in markets where you can get an A5 Sportback, unless it's noticeably more expensive.

[Blake P]

If the A5/S5 Sportback was available in North America that would be my car of choice (well, maybe after the kids grow up). It looks almost as good as the A5 but it's even more practical than the A4. In fact, the A4 doesn't make a lot of sense to me anymore in markets where you can get an A5 Sportback, unless it's noticeably more expensive.

Hopefully an A4 sportback is on the horizon. I still think it was BS for Audi to base it on the A5 instead of the A4 just so they could charge more money!

[H0201]

I walked into the dealership with the intention of buying an A5 but I ended up buying an A4 sline. However, there's a part of me still wanting a coupe... sigh. I will consider trading when A5 comes out with refresh/redesign. For now, I'll enjoy my A4!

[A5MD]

When I went to the dealership, I had my heart set on the A5. When I drove away, I was in my A4 and I haven't looked back. While the A5 is a great car, I don't think it looks better then the A4, just a little different. I didn't just buy my A4 for the extra 2 doors, I like the style and functionality of it as well. If I could have done it over again, I would still make the same decision.

I was the exact opposite.I went in looking at the A4 then after looking at the A5 I was sold. The curves are what sold. me. After driving it, I knew I had to have it. I liked the A4 due to it being 4 doors so it would be easier access for the kids but then I thought about it and realized that everytime I went out with the family, we always took the MDX for the extra space. Only decision I would make again is to have chosen an S4 or S5 instead. Also, the wife approved of the coupe as well which made my decision easier..:)

[LB S4 LB]

the a5/s5 are one of the ugliest cars audi has made... reminds of a new camaro. a HUDGE 2 door boat... i would never buy an a5/s5 its a4/s4 all the way............

[johnnythepie]

IMHO it's all about ease of ingress/egress re the rear seat passengers, far easier in the A4 sedan.
That said, the A5 has an undeniable sensual flow to its' body lines
Got friends/kids - A4
Lookin' for ladies - A5
Cheers

If you think access is a problem with an A5, you should try an A7!Needed a shoe horn to get out, and my wife had to come out feet first on her back (nothing new there) from the back seat!Summed it up tho greg..

[neptunesfinest]

I like the front and back of the A4 better and the sides of the A5. Sometimes I wish I had an A5 but I love my A4 so I don't think I'd trade.

[scottyuk]

The A4 being more family focussed works better for me.

Car choice is very personal and reflects on your requirements rather than what car is better.

[brainpan]

Was originally looking at an a5, but you cant fit shit in the trunk, you'd be lucky to get more than one hockey bag back there, and not much room for sticks

[Alkivar]

Was originally looking at an a5, but you cant fit shit in the trunk, you'd be lucky to get more than one hockey bag back there, and not much room for sticks

I call bullshit on this one... i've fit more crap in the back of my A5 than I could in my B5 S4.

seats still fold down, and yes you can fit a hockey bag in there... you can also fit ski's in there... but the rear seat needs to be folded down on at least one side.

[A5MD]

the a5/s5 are one of the ugliest cars audi has made... reminds of a new camaro. a HUDGE 2 door boat... i would never buy an a5/s5 its a4/s4 all the way............

Like scottyuk said, Its all personal preference. I don't know how you think the A5/S5 is the ugliest Audi ever made. I remember edmunds.com did a survey and it was voted the most sexy. The A5/S5 isn't even close to a camaro


These are the specs from msn cars comparo bewteen size of A5 and Camaro...not even close in size

A5 2.0T Premium Coupe quattro Tiptronic ****-Camaro 1LT Coupe
Curb Weight - Automatic (lb.) No data **********-3750
Curb Weight - Manual (lb.) No data ************--3741
Wheelbase (in.)*******************- 108.30-****- 112.30
Length (in.) **********************182.10-****- 190.40
Width (in.) **********************-73.00-******- 75.50
Height (in.)**********************--54.00 ******--54.20
Track Front (in.) ******************--62.50-******--63.70
Track Rear (in.) ******************* 62.10-******** 64.10


IMO, you can't go wrong with either vehicle but the A5 is FAR from being the ugliest Audi ever made.

[brainpan]

I call bullshit on this one... i've fit more crap in the back of my A5 than I could in my B5 S4.

seats still fold down, and yes you can fit a hockey bag in there... you can also fit ski's in there... but the rear seat needs to be folded down on at least one side.

easy there big guy, sure you fit A bag, i fit 3 buddys in my a4 with equipment... lol good luck with golf bags, youd have to take the drivers out too.

[J. Alan]

As an "empty nester" with a wife, I should be a candidate for an A5. There is one in my neighborhood I see quite often and it is a good lookin' piece. However, I am from the old school and I like my two doors' to be hardtops - i.e. pillar-less with rear windows that go up or down. As fas as I know, Mercedes is the only mass produced car company making genuine two door hardtops. Bought a 2010 A4 S-Line three pedal instead - great car.

J. Alan

[ActivS5]

Was originally looking at an a5, but you cant fit shit in the trunk, you'd be lucky to get more than one hockey bag back there, and not much room for sticks

I dont have racks on my A5. With the driver rear seat down..I get 3 snowboards, 6 boots, 3-4 moderately large bags, a 12" sub in a ported box, and 3 comfortable people.

Fine with me.

the a5/s5 are one of the ugliest cars audi has made... reminds of a new camaro. a HUDGE 2 door boat... i would never buy an a5/s5 its a4/s4 all the way............

Ugliest car Audi has ever made? Apparently the rest of the world has voted otherwise. I'm sorry, number's don't lie.

[NickZag]

I dont have racks on my A5. With the driver rear seat down..I get 3 snowboards, 6 boots, 3-4 moderately large bags, a 12" sub in a ported box, and 3 comfortable people.

Fine with me.



Ugliest car Audi has ever made? Apparently the rest of the world has voted otherwise. I'm sorry, number's don't lie.

I gotta agree with ecrew... Calling an A5 ugly is crazy. It's a great looking car.

[Ryan_T]

A lot of interesting points in here.

I began to think about this because I noticed that my back seats are empty 95% of the time. I'm one of those who likes to own/operate/run/use no more than what is necessary for my required/wanted level of comfort/satisfaction. Other than the occasional trip (1-2x a year) that puts 3-4 people and lots of cargo in the car, the car is almost always empty. The A5 seems to fit the bill better than my current ride in that aspect.

As for ride, I've driven an A5 S-Line and it was different enough from the A4 to notice immediately. The engine is smoother and sounds different. The car feels tighter and more agile no matter what I make it do (in my limited city/hwy driving). Definitely a better experience than the A4. This is saying something, since I think the A4 is very good in its own right.

Having said all this, I still stare everytime I see an A/S5 on the road. So styling wins me here as well.

So you see which way I'm leaning here. I Want an A5. For all logical and aesthetic reason, it's better (for me). But I've sort of developed a bond to my A4, and I feel there's more than just the slight concern for losing two doors that's keeping me. It's a very odd feeling; I didn't know what it was to 'love' a car until now.

[Greg Nelson]

A lot of interesting points in here.

I began to think about this because I noticed that my back seats are empty 95% of the time. I'm one of those who likes to own/operate/run/use no more than what is necessary for my required/wanted level of comfort/satisfaction. Other than the occasional trip (1-2x a year) that puts 3-4 people and lots of cargo in the car, the car is almost always empty. The A5 seems to fit the bill better than my current ride in that aspect.

As for ride, I've driven an A5 S-Line and it was different enough from the A4 to notice immediately. The engine is smoother and sounds different. The car feels tighter and more agile no matter what I make it do (in my limited city/hwy driving). Definitely a better experience than the A4. This is saying something, since I think the A4 is very good in its own right.

Having said all this, I still stare everytime I see an A/S5 on the road. So styling wins me here as well.

So you see which way I'm leaning here. I Want an A5. For all logical and aesthetic reason, it's better (for me). But I've sort of developed a bond to my A4, and I feel there's more than just the slight concern for losing two doors that's keeping me. It's a very odd feeling; I didn't know what it was to 'love' a car until now.

Well said Ryan - thinkin' there's a bit of Irish in you
Cheers

[ActivS5]

A lot of interesting points in here.

I began to think about this because I noticed that my back seats are empty 95% of the time. I'm one of those who likes to own/operate/run/use no more than what is necessary for my required/wanted level of comfort/satisfaction. Other than the occasional trip (1-2x a year) that puts 3-4 people and lots of cargo in the car, the car is almost always empty. The A5 seems to fit the bill better than my current ride in that aspect.

As for ride, I've driven an A5 S-Line and it was different enough from the A4 to notice immediately. The engine is smoother and sounds different. The car feels tighter and more agile no matter what I make it do (in my limited city/hwy driving). Definitely a better experience than the A4. This is saying something, since I think the A4 is very good in its own right.

Having said all this, I still stare everytime I see an A/S5 on the road. So styling wins me here as well.

So you see which way I'm leaning here. I Want an A5. For all logical and aesthetic reason, it's better (for me). But I've sort of developed a bond to my A4, and I feel there's more than just the slight concern for losing two doors that's keeping me. It's a very odd feeling; I didn't know what it was to 'love' a car until now.

Very well said. The B8 A4 is a beautiful vehicle as well. You really cant go wrong with either. What a decision! Gold star to Audi's design dept.

[Comp4k]

Get both? Lol, jk. I definitely love the styling- and actually prefer the A5 DRLs.

I voted A4 just because I actually transport people around.

[neptunesfinest]

A lot of interesting points in here.

I began to think about this because I noticed that my back seats are empty 95% of the time. I'm one of those who likes to own/operate/run/use no more than what is necessary for my required/wanted level of comfort/satisfaction. Other than the occasional trip (1-2x a year) that puts 3-4 people and lots of cargo in the car, the car is almost always empty. The A5 seems to fit the bill better than my current ride in that aspect.

As for ride, I've driven an A5 S-Line and it was different enough from the A4 to notice immediately. The engine is smoother and sounds different. The car feels tighter and more agile no matter what I make it do (in my limited city/hwy driving). Definitely a better experience than the A4. This is saying something, since I think the A4 is very good in its own right.

Having said all this, I still stare everytime I see an A/S5 on the road. So styling wins me here as well.

So you see which way I'm leaning here. I Want an A5. For all logical and aesthetic reason, it's better (for me). But I've sort of developed a bond to my A4, and I feel there's more than just the slight concern for losing two doors that's keeping me. It's a very odd feeling; I didn't know what it was to 'love' a car until now.

I don't know your situation (buy or lease) but if you bought the A4 I think you should stick with it. Especially if you like it. Remember that cars are sort of like relationships. A lot of times you think you know what you're getting into but you really don't. If the A4 is a good car and it's not giving you problems then IMO the difference between the two doesn't really justify the cost to make the switch. And you always run the risk of getting a problematic car. Besides, if you switch to an A5 you'll be wanting those two doors back at some point...but then you'd have to get an A6 at that point lol.

[Bargamon]

A year ago shopped for an A5 and could not get a good deal on one so I bought a 328i Coupe. Sheer volume of manuals and sport on the BMW made is easy to find. A5's used held incredible value!

Perhaps too the driving dynamics of the 328i the way I prefer it was also a factor. Add it up it was a good choice.

The A5 is wonderful!

Im not trolling here, I just purchased a new A4 Avant for the wife! Utility was the main reason for the Avant but we actually think the Avant is the best looking variant of any Audi. If I was to have ordered a from the factory the BMW I would have gone sport wagon with the roof rail delete and its stunning as practical.

We like sport wagons and appreciate the fact the masses don't. We tend to think they (the masses) usually get it wrong anyway.

Its all personal preference. Drive what you like, what pleases your eye and what makes you feel good in!

In the end the A4 in sedan form costs the least with the same mechanicals. It is the most common and very practical compared to the A5.
With kids that drive themselves I find I don't need 4 doors anymore. in the last 7 years the wife had the mini van and I have gone from MT variants of an Allroad-530i-and not the 328 coupe. Love them all!

[DeMOROlized]

easy there big guy, sure you fit A bag, i fit 3 buddys in my a4 with equipment... lol good luck with golf bags, youd have to take the drivers out too.

I have no problem with 2 golf bags in my trunk, drivers in bag, nothing taken out. Same as my old B7 A4. Unless the B8 A4 trunk is significantly bigger, which if I recall correctly it is not, you won't be able to fit more.

[routertyty]

In my opinion, if you only need 2 seats and want the best performing vehicle then the A5 wins, hands down. I've also driven an A5 (loaner for a few days) and the A5 has unbelievable handling. However, if you need 4 working seats then the A4 is much more practical. They are 2 totally different cars, each with their merits.

[belzebutt]

Is there really anything different between an A4 and A5 (say both with sport package) that would truly make the handling different between the two? I always thought it's just the styling that's different.

[ItsDubC]

A5/S5 is wider and shorter than A4/S4