A4 / S4, Curious about Audi Owner's thoughts with the following vehicles.

[doublespeeded]

Hi guys,

I have been wondering what fellow Audi owner/drivers think and feel of these choices.

I currently own a Phantom Black 2013 B8.5 A4 Quattro 2.0T with 7Spd DSG on Stage II. Its been a couple of years since ownership and till this day i'm still very happy with it. However admittedly, i cant help but desirously think of the performance (APR Stage II+ Ultracharger, V6 Howl & supercharger whine that the S4 gives. I wouldn't mind more performance with what i have and go Stage III, but i dont think its a real cost effective direction.


Question:

1.) Audi 2009 - 2012 B8.0 (Pre-facelift) S4 vs 2013 - 2016 B8.5 (Facelift) A4? This may be a 'no brainer' but IMO the facelift is so much more aesthetically pleasing compared to the previous model and does make a world of difference in appearance. The newer day time running lights are actually quite iconic. (would anyone with a Pre-facelift S4 happily own a newer facelift A4 instead?)

2.) Audi 2013 - 2016 B8.5 (facelift) S4 vs 2016 - Current B9 A4? (Due to two different platforms, The B9 styling is very modern and technologically state of the art compared to B8, especially with that breakthrough Virtual cockpit. where im from, the price between the two are almost similar. )
As B8 S4 owners here, would you trade/give up your S4 for a modern/current Audi A4 B9 that parks itself, with all the bling; Virtual cockpit, Ambient lighting, Laser headlights & safety features etc?

Any thoughts and opinions welcome for this one, i may post this in the A4 B8 & B9 section also to see what their owners think.

cheers,

[Dirt]

I’d go with the S4 in either of those scenarios. So much more fun to drive.

[Works2shoot]

Is the offering of the DSG in the b8/8.5 A4 a non-usdm thing?

[raudiace4]

I was in the same boat, except I was stuck between B9 S4 or 2016 B8.5 S4 couple months ago. I didn't care for the new technology as much, as the B8.5 still had a very good cabin and the performance potential was already "unlocked", where as the B9s don't have any bench flash solutions yet. Overall the B8.5 still looks better than any B9 I have seen except for S5 SBs.

The B8.5 S4 also drove better, and felt quicker even though the B9 S4 is a faster car without a doubt stock vs stock. I went with the B8.5 because I wasn't planning to keep the car a long time and it worked out better for me. As for B9 A4 vs B8.5 S4 if both are the same price, ask yourself if you value new technology more than speed potential and make your decision.

[tar]

Would do b8 s4 over 8.5 a4
Or b8 s4 over b9 a4
Or 8.5 s4 over b9 a4.

[brs2c]

B8.5 S4

[USAF_Danny]

Hi guys,

I have been wondering what fellow Audi owner/drivers think and feel of these choices.

I currently own a Phantom Black 2013 B8.5 A4 Quattro 2.0T with 7Spd DSG on Stage II. Its been a couple of years since ownership and till this day i'm still very happy with it. However admittedly, i cant help but desirously think of the performance (APR Stage II+ Ultracharger, V6 Howl & supercharger whine that the S4 gives. I wouldn't mind more performance with what i have and go Stage III, but i dont think its a real cost effective direction.


Question:

1.) Audi 2009 - 2012 B8.0 (Pre-facelift) S4 vs 2013 - 2016 B8.5 (Facelift) A4? This may be a 'no brainer' but IMO the facelift is so much more aesthetically pleasing compared to the previous model and does make a world of difference in appearance. The newer day time running lights are actually quite iconic. (would anyone with a Pre-facelift S4 happily own a newer facelift A4 instead?)

2.) Audi 2013 - 2016 B8.5 (facelift) S4 vs 2016 - Current B9 A4? (Due to two different platforms, The B9 styling is very modern and technologically state of the art compared to B8, especially with that breakthrough Virtual cockpit. where im from, the price between the two are almost similar. )
As B8 S4 owners here, would you trade/give up your S4 for a modern/current Audi A4 B9 that parks itself, with all the bling; Virtual cockpit, Ambient lighting, Laser headlights & safety features etc?

Any thoughts and opinions welcome for this one, i may post this in the A4 B8 & B9 section also to see what their owners think.

cheers,

I was in the same situation as you. Had a B8 A4 and was happy with my car but I kept thinking about an S4 and kept looking for S4s. I felt like I was car shopping forever because the more I thought about the new car, the more I knew I was going to end up getting rid of my A4. I posted almost an exact thread in the A4 section and everyone was telling me to keep my car. Jimmy & Doug actually talked me into getting an S4 and I'm glad I did. If you think you're happy with your A4, wait until you're in an S4. There's no going back. Now though, I'm power hungry and want a V8 so I'm looking for an RS5, but I wouldn't mind keeping my B8 S4 at all. It's a reliable car and you get great smiles per gallon.

To answer your questions:

1. I wouldn't get rid of my B8 S4 for a B8.5 A4. It's aesthetically pleasing yes, and I wish I had the facelift S4 but you can't even compare the two. The performance difference alone would make me lean towards the B8. The cabins are almost identical too.

2. I do like the modern technology in the B9s but I wouldn't drive one. I prefer the supercharged V6 over the turbocharged motor and the new body style looks too "futuristic" for me. It's not as appealing as the B8.5. My best friend picked up a B9 S4 when he got stationed in Germany and blames me for his debt lol. When we were stationed together, I bought the S4 and he suddenly went from a BMW fan to an Audi fan. For the price point of a new B9, I could grab an 8.5 RS5 and still have money for parts.

Ultimately, it's up to you. You're going to be driving the car everyday. Life's short, why not drive what makes you happy?

[doughboy17]

Personally, I wanted a B8 or B8.5 S4 over the B9 because I am not a turbo guy. Actually, I prefer the exterior styling of the B8 over the B8.5 S4 but really appreciate the B8.5 interior upgrades. I enjoy driving my cars and will pass on the auto driving and nanny features. I dislike the interior of the B9s vs. the B8.5 and see the biggest upgrades of the B9s being the Virtual Cockpit, exhaust note, and the theater seating of the backseat.

[tar]

I was in the same situation as you. Had a B8 A4 and was happy with my car but I kept thinking about an S4 and kept looking for S4s. I felt like I was car shopping forever because the more I thought about the new car, the more I knew I was going to end up getting rid of my A4. I posted almost an exact thread in the A4 section and everyone was telling me to keep my car. Jimmy & Doug actually talked me into getting an S4 and I'm glad I did. If you think you're happy with your A4, wait until you're in an S4. There's no going back. Now though, I'm power hungry and want a V8 so I'm looking for an RS5, but I wouldn't mind keeping my B8 S4 at all. It's a reliable car and you get great smiles per gallon.

To answer your questions:

1. I wouldn't get rid of my B8 S4 for a B8.5 A4. It's aesthetically pleasing yes, and I wish I had the facelift S4 but you can't even compare the two. The performance difference alone would make me lean towards the B8. The cabins are almost identical too.

2. I do like the modern technology in the B9s but I wouldn't drive one. I prefer the supercharged V6 over the turbocharged motor and the new body style looks too "futuristic" for me. It's not as appealing as the B8.5. My best friend picked up a B9 S4 when he got stationed in Germany and blames me for his debt lol. When we were stationed together, I bought the S4 and he suddenly went from a BMW fan to an Audi fan. For the price point of a new B9, I could grab an 8.5 RS5 and still have money for parts.

Ultimately, it's up to you. You're going to be driving the car everyday. Life's short, why not drive what makes you happy?

But 8.5 rs5 is slow tho. Might As well embrace being slow and get a b7 rs4 which looks far better. And has correct transmission.

[USAF_Danny]

But 8.5 rs5 is slow tho. Might As well embrace being slow and get a b7 rs4 which looks far better. And has correct transmission.

You're not wrong. But there's just something about the body style and the V8 that's so appealing to me lol. I'd love to have an RS6 Wagon or an RS7 but I think I either need be an adult and get to the right point in life, or hit the lotto.

Hoping for the later of the two...

[Audi_Andrew19]

Personally, I wanted a B8 or B8.5 S4 over the B9 because I am not a turbo guy. Actually, I prefer the exterior styling of the B8 over the B8.5 S4 but really appreciate the B8.5 interior upgrades. I enjoy driving my cars and will pass on the auto driving and nanny features. I dislike the interior of the B9s vs. the B8.5 and see the biggest upgrades of the B9s being the Virtual Cockpit, exhaust note, and the theater seating of the backseat.

I agree with this, B8 exterior looks are better than the 8.5 especially the front-end however the interior of the 8.5 is a slightly nicer place to be than the B8. In my humble opinion, I believe the 8.5 S4 is somewhat "softer" than the B8 S4 as well in that they toned down the styling (IMO), lowered the redline for DSG shifts, etc.

The B9 S4 is growing on me. I am a fan of the virtual cockpit and the new tech but exterior-wise; lowered with some wheels and exhaust is quite a compelling option. However, stock looks for the B8-8.5 S4 vs the B9 S4 the B8 looks far better.

[ToddBrunswick]

I was in a similar situation. I went from a B8.5 A4 to a B8.5 S4. I refused to go B9 S4 because I don't like the styling as much and I wanted a MT. I don't think you'll regret going to a B8(.5) S4 even for a second.

[TFSI]

It's a very simple question to answer, all comes down to money.

If you're financially stable and able to spend thousands of dollars upgrading car and another thousands of dollars on modifications such as tune, tcu, ultra charger, intake and exhaust, go for it. Also to add 1-2 thousand dollars for possible repair since all those modifications will stress the engine, brake, suspension. Last but not least, insurance.

Do financial comparison between owning your current car vs replacement & additional modifications.


But I'd like to answer your 2 questions. My opinion is towards reliability.
1) I'd stick with B8.5 A4. Pre-facelift S4 is nice too, but it'll be hard to find one with low mileage. A lot more issues have come up on 2009-2012 models, too risky.
2) B8.5 S4 Major issues have been addressed. New A4 is nice and all, but B8.5 still looks good and it will age well.

[Nitrousbird]

IMO, looks wise there isn't much of a difference between the B8 and B8.5 S4. DSG reliability, MMI, steering wheel and minor visual cues are the real reason to go B8.5. The S4 is my wife's car and I would only let her look at B8.5 models, mainly for DSG reliability. I wasn't aware A4's were ever optioned with the DSG, even over seas.

For my wife, who doesn't give two craps about speed, wanted the S4 because it feels more special. Yes, an S-Line with the right options would look almost the same but is hard to find and was a stupid buy new due to the minor price difference from the S4. The 2.0T doesn't have nearly the power and isn't nearly as refined feeling as the 3.0 supercharged motor. Wife came from a B7 A4 that served her well.

As for turbo motors...nothing wrong with a turbo motor. Little motors + single turbo + extra boost = lag. I have a N54 powered BMW as a 3-season daily beater. Even with two tiny turbo's and an 3.0L inline 6, I still feel lag - at least on 2x stock boost...not really noticed on stock boost. I haven't done DP's or inlets/outlets yet, so that can be reduced some, but anyone that says no lag on a tuned turbo is just kidding themselves. The sound of a turbo or two spooling up is great (I don't hear ANY supercharger whine on the wife's S4, unfortunately).

[doublespeeded]

Thank you all so much for your responses. I must say Im really overwhelmed with the supportive advice & thoughts people have offered. I also do feel quite welcomed posting in this section as i wasn't sure of the response i would get.

I hope i wont be blamed with the multiple response method.

Is the offering of the DSG in the b8/8.5 A4 a non-usdm thing?

Yes, i am from Australia.
The Quattros that were released here, comes in 6MT as well as 7-speed S-Tronic DSG. And the Front wheel drive version comes with the 6MT or 8 Speed CVT, which i heard, doesn't perform very well.

I was in the same boat, except I was stuck between B9 S4 or 2016 B8.5 S4 couple months ago. I didn't care for the new technology as much, as the B8.5 still had a very good cabin and the performance potential was already "unlocked", where as the B9s don't have any bench flash solutions yet. Overall the B8.5 still looks better than any B9 I have seen except for S5 SBs.
The B8.5 S4 also drove better, and felt quicker even though the B9 S4 is a faster car without a doubt stock vs stock. I went with the B8.5 because I wasn't planning to keep the car a long time and it worked out better for me. As for B9 A4 vs B8.5 S4 if both are the same price, ask yourself if you value new technology more than speed potential and make your decision.

sounds like your in a different league than me
Where im from, cars aren't very cheap compared to the states. I wont be able to afford to keep changing though.

A bit off topic, thats a nice C63 AMG, ive seen the new AMG MMI/Infotainment, how it has the Racetracks preloaded, they're amazing.

I was in the same situation as you. Had a B8 A4 and was happy with my car but I kept thinking about an S4 and kept looking for S4s. I felt like I was car shopping forever because the more I thought about the new car, the more I knew I was going to end up getting rid of my A4. I posted almost an exact thread in the A4 section and everyone was telling me to keep my car. Jimmy & Doug actually talked me into getting an S4 and I'm glad I did. If you think you're happy with your A4, wait until you're in an S4. There's no going back. Now though, I'm power hungry and want a V8 so I'm looking for an RS5, but I wouldn't mind keeping my B8 S4 at all. It's a reliable car and you get great smiles per gallon.

To answer your questions:

1. I wouldn't get rid of my B8 S4 for a B8.5 A4. It's aesthetically pleasing yes, and I wish I had the facelift S4 but you can't even compare the two. The performance difference alone would make me lean towards the B8. The cabins are almost identical too.

2. I do like the modern technology in the B9s but I wouldn't drive one. I prefer the supercharged V6 over the turbocharged motor and the new body style looks too "futuristic" for me. It's not as appealing as the B8.5. My best friend picked up a B9 S4 when he got stationed in Germany and blames me for his debt lol. When we were stationed together, I bought the S4 and he suddenly went from a BMW fan to an Audi fan. For the price point of a new B9, I could grab an 8.5 RS5 and still have money for parts.

Ultimately, it's up to you. You're going to be driving the car everyday. Life's short, why not drive what makes you happy?

Im glad im not the only one. Sounds like there has been a few

yeah the responses in the A4 section seem to be a bit more.... defensive with the A4 i find aswell. (maybe biased?)
The good thing for me, as you've said, since im already mostly content with my A4, owning or moving onto an S4 only gets better as i already know the feel of the car of the same chassis and not coming from a different platform or a totally different brand of car.

The only biggest let down i have against the A4, is that its not really meant to be a 'High Performance Sports Car'... more meant for commuting/passenger vehicle. Where the S4 is actually an Entry level High performance sports car for Audi.

You're not wrong. But there's just something about the body style and the V8 that's so appealing to me lol. I'd love to have an RS6 Wagon or an RS7 but I think I either need be an adult and get to the right point in life, or hit the lotto.

Hoping for the later of the two...

I think what he meant is that when both tuned, The S4 by far exceeds that of a tuned Naturally Aspirated RS4... being N/A, there doesn't seem to be alot of headroom for the tuners. (I recall theres only a stage I tune for both REVO and APR)

One could argue that a Euro car's V8 sound, theres just no comparison... I saw/heard a guy revving his Lamborghini Huracan the other day and belting it in traffic. I personally would much prefer the sound of the current RS6 or RS7 over that V10 sound.

[nicknice91303]

Thank you all so much for your responses. I must say Im really overwhelmed with the supportive advice & thoughts people have offered. I also do feel quite welcomed posting in this section as i wasn't sure of the response i would get.

I hope i wont be blamed with the multiple response method.






Yes, i am from Australia.
The Quattros that were released here, comes in 6MT as well as 7-speed S-Tronic DSG. And the Front wheel drive version comes with the 6MT or 8 Speed CVT, which i heard, doesn't perform very well.



sounds like your in a different league than me
Where im from, cars aren't very cheap compared to the states. I wont be able to afford to keep changing though.

A bit off topic, thats a nice C63 AMG, ive seen the new AMG MMI/Infotainment, how it has the Racetracks preloaded, they're amazing.




Im glad im not the only one. Sounds like there has been a few

yeah the responses in the A4 section seem to be a bit more.... defensive with the A4 i find aswell. (maybe biased?)
The good thing for me, as you've said, since im already mostly content with my A4, owning or moving onto an S4 only gets better as i already know the feel of the car of the same chassis and not coming from a different platform or a totally different brand of car.

The only biggest let down i have against the A4, is that its not really meant to be a 'High Performance Sports Car'... more meant for commuting/passenger vehicle. Where the S4 is actually an Entry level High performance sports car for Audi.





I think what he meant is that when both tuned, The S4 by far exceeds that of a tuned Naturally Aspirated RS4... being N/A, there doesn't seem to be alot of headroom for the tuners. (I recall theres only a stage I tune for both REVO and APR)

One could argue that a Euro car's V8 sound, theres just no comparison... I saw/heard a guy revving his Lamborghini Huracan the other day and belting it in traffic. I personally would much prefer the sound of the current RS6 or RS7 over that V10 sound.

I have to say I have been following this thread along with others about the S4 b8.5. I am a E60 BMW owner and I'm to looking to buy the b8.5 s4. I looked into the A4 and A6 but just wasn't what I liked. I am into tuning cars and having alittle fun. But I want to thank you along with everyone else in here. It's like a little family of car lovers lol. I joined almost 2 years ago when I got my bmw and now with the audi groups I find myself in these forums more then anything. I have talked with some very Knowledgeable people and even made some purchases from members for parts. I can't wait to get my S4 and begin my journey with it....

Sent from my SM-G892A using Tapatalk

[doublespeeded]

Cont'd...

These threads and replies are always pleasant and fun to read.

I agree with this, B8 exterior looks are better than the 8.5 especially the front-end however the interior of the 8.5 is a slightly nicer place to be than the B8. In my humble opinion, I believe the 8.5 S4 is somewhat "softer" than the B8 S4 as well in that they toned down the styling (IMO), lowered the redline for DSG shifts, etc.

The B9 S4 is growing on me. I am a fan of the virtual cockpit and the new tech but exterior-wise; lowered with some wheels and exhaust is quite a compelling option. However, stock looks for the B8-8.5 S4 vs the B9 S4 the B8 looks far better.

Yeah i wasnt aware that the redline was lowered from the factory in the B8.5. but i have read that there were various problems on the B8.0, which was eventually corrected by VW/Audi.

I was actually wondering.

Audi seemed to have changed the engine cover, midway during the production of the B8.5, in 2014.

This was the earlier one from 2009 - 2014, present in both B8.0 and 8.5:



And this is the revised engine cover from 2014 - 2016, present in the later B8.5 only and end of production:




was there any revisions due to this change?

I was in a similar situation. I went from a B8.5 A4 to a B8.5 S4. I refused to go B9 S4 because I don't like the styling as much and I wanted a MT. I don't think you'll regret going to a B8(.5) S4 even for a second.

It's a very simple question to answer, all comes down to money.

If you're financially stable and able to spend thousands of dollars upgrading car and another thousands of dollars on modifications such as tune, tcu, ultra charger, intake and exhaust, go for it. Also to add 1-2 thousand dollars for possible repair since all those modifications will stress the engine, brake, suspension. Last but not least, insurance.

Do financial comparison between owning your current car vs replacement & additional modifications.


But I'd like to answer your 2 questions. My opinion is towards reliability.
1) I'd stick with B8.5 A4. Pre-facelift S4 is nice too, but it'll be hard to find one with low mileage. A lot more issues have come up on 2009-2012 models, too risky.
2) B8.5 S4 Major issues have been addressed. New A4 is nice and all, but B8.5 still looks good and it will age well.

IMO, looks wise there isn't much of a difference between the B8 and B8.5 S4. DSG reliability, MMI, steering wheel and minor visual cues are the real reason to go B8.5. The S4 is my wife's car and I would only let her look at B8.5 models, mainly for DSG reliability. I wasn't aware A4's were ever optioned with the DSG, even over seas.

For my wife, who doesn't give two craps about speed, wanted the S4 because it feels more special. Yes, an S-Line with the right options would look almost the same but is hard to find and was a stupid buy new due to the minor price difference from the S4. The 2.0T doesn't have nearly the power and isn't nearly as refined feeling as the 3.0 supercharged motor. Wife came from a B7 A4 that served her well.

As for turbo motors...nothing wrong with a turbo motor. Little motors + single turbo + extra boost = lag. I have a N54 powered BMW as a 3-season daily beater. Even with two tiny turbo's and an 3.0L inline 6, I still feel lag - at least on 2x stock boost...not really noticed on stock boost. I haven't done DP's or inlets/outlets yet, so that can be reduced some, but anyone that says no lag on a tuned turbo is just kidding themselves. The sound of a turbo or two spooling up is great (I don't hear ANY supercharger whine on the wife's S4, unfortunately).

Apparently manufacturers are going to the direction of turbocharging or turbocharging smaller motors is due to helping them with the emissions.

Money is in the equation for me. Obviously it would've been a better option had i gone straight to an S4 instead, although the cost for them is a fair amount higher. (e.g a B8.5 A4 is around $25,000 AUD and a B8.5 S4 is around the $55,000 AUD mark. This goes to show you that cars arent exactly cheap here) But i wouldn't of known. This A4 is actually my first ever Euro car. I was a previous JDM fan/believer and to be honest, was nervous of owning Euros. ive owned Supra, 200SX & EVO IX in my younger years and i do know about the lag...the 200 & EVO had plenty due to being 4cyl and single turbo.

The other thing is the availability of a used car market is limited aswell, different to buying a car new and you choose what you prefer. Theres currently only a few S4s for sale here and I would really prefer one in Black (my car is Phantom pearl black, 5 Rotor arm rims Powder coated Satin black & Dark tints.. looks quite compelling for an A4) , and theres only 1 available int he same colour. But it somehow has very poor seats... it doesn't have the supportive looking S4 signature seats... it has pretty boring A4 S-line looking seats with Suede/Alcantara material.... Not a fan of white cars, but theres a Grey in low mileage ('Gray' for you Americans lol) but the price is extremely unreasonable.

So the major issues that had been addressed, i assume it was the Water pump, thermostat & Timing Chain tensioner that i read about? They were no longer present in the B8.5?

[seandon_792]

For the most part the major issues had been resolved in the B8.5. The water pump is now made from metal due to the revision and mechatronic unit issues are few and far between. The thermostat is still hit or miss and has a tendency to fail closed.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[nicknice91303]

For the most part the major issues had been resolved in the B8.5. The water pump is now made from metal due to the revision and mechatronic unit issues are few and far between. The thermostat is still hit or miss and has a tendency to fail closed.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

So the b8.5 water pump Tstat issues where fixed? So 2015 2016 model I should be ok with?

Sent from my SM-G892A using Tapatalk

[MrFunk]

2012 S4. Best year, best styling, best car.

[raudiace4]

Yeah i wasnt aware that the redline was lowered from the factory in the B8.5. but i have read that there were various problems on the B8.0, which was eventually corrected by VW/Audi.

I was actually wondering.

Audi seemed to have changed the engine cover, midway during the production of the B8.5, in 2014.

This was the earlier one from 2009 - 2014, present in both B8.0 and 8.5:



And this is the revised engine cover from 2014 - 2016, present in the later B8.5 only and end of production:




was there any revisions due to this change?

The engine cover difference could be for the last model year S4s. Some B8.5s in the 2016 model year switched over to a new style ECU that cannot be tuned, these were late model 2016 year cars, and some had the new engine cover.

[doughboy17]

Cont'd...

So the major issues that had been addressed, i assume it was the Water pump, thermostat & Timing Chain tensioner that i read about? They were no longer present in the B8.5?

The Chain tensioner remains a potential issue at least in '13 and 14s.

[engineerjet]

Hi guys,

I have been wondering what fellow Audi owner/drivers think and feel of these choices.

I currently own a Phantom Black 2013 B8.5 A4 Quattro 2.0T with 7Spd DSG on Stage II. Its been a couple of years since ownership and till this day i'm still very happy with it. However admittedly, i cant help but desirously think of the performance (APR Stage II+ Ultracharger, V6 Howl & supercharger whine that the S4 gives. I wouldn't mind more performance with what i have and go Stage III, but i dont think its a real cost effective direction.


Question:

1.) Audi 2009 - 2012 B8.0 (Pre-facelift) S4 vs 2013 - 2016 B8.5 (Facelift) A4? This may be a 'no brainer' but IMO the facelift is so much more aesthetically pleasing compared to the previous model and does make a world of difference in appearance. The newer day time running lights are actually quite iconic. (would anyone with a Pre-facelift S4 happily own a newer facelift A4 instead?)

2.) Audi 2013 - 2016 B8.5 (facelift) S4 vs 2016 - Current B9 A4? (Due to two different platforms, The B9 styling is very modern and technologically state of the art compared to B8, especially with that breakthrough Virtual cockpit. where im from, the price between the two are almost similar. )
As B8 S4 owners here, would you trade/give up your S4 for a modern/current Audi A4 B9 that parks itself, with all the bling; Virtual cockpit, Ambient lighting, Laser headlights & safety features etc?

Any thoughts and opinions welcome for this one, i may post this in the A4 B8 & B9 section also to see what their owners think.

cheers,

As a 3 month old B8.5 S4 owner coming from 9 years of 2007 A4 2.0T and 6 years of 2000 A4 3.2. In regards to your question;
1.) between a B8 S4 and B8.5 A4, id go S4 all the way. This is assuming gas mileage is not a concern to you. I miss my A4 gas mileage so much.
2.) I have never even sat in a B9 so i cant give confident answer between a B8.5 S4 and a B9 A4. Having said that, I'm sure the performance and overall driving experience of an S4 would exceed that of an A4 one generation apart.

So as it stands, I would not trade/give up my S4 for any A4.

[akerr.echo]

Facelift s4 all day


Sent from my iPhone using Audizine

[Low Orbit]

B8.5 S4 all the way. Supercharger and DSG/manual make it more fun than a B9 S4 and far better than an A4 (B8.5 or B9). In addition, the B8.5 S4 is in the sweet spot as major issues addressed and the B9 may have issues we don't know about yet.

I lease my 2016 B8.5 S4 (DSG and sport diff) and was planning to upgrade to a B9 S4 but I now plan to buy out my lease and CPO the car.

[nicknice91303]

B8.5 S4 all the way. Supercharger and DSG/manual make it more fun than a B9 S4 and far better than an A4 (B8.5 or B9). In addition, the B8.5 S4 is in the sweet spot as major issues addressed and the B9 may have issues we don't know about yet.

I lease my 2016 B8.5 S4 (DSG and sport diff) and was planning to upgrade to a B9 S4 but I now plan to buy out my lease and CPO the car.

With the lease, where you able to do any mods? I'm in the market to buy a 2016 s4 but not sure if I should just buy it out right and own it or finance it and then pay it off in like 5 months... I want to do mods but I also want to keep any type of warranty that comes with the purchase of the car.

Sent from my SM-G892A using Tapatalk

[kevinz]

B8.5 S4, hands down.

[jygesq]

The Chain tensioner remains a potential issue at least in '13 and 14s.

also for 2015 model year

[nicknice91303]

also for 2015 model year

What about the 16 models?

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[QS4]

People choose S4 models because they tend to like the better performance and the tighter package.*
People choose A4 models because it's a nicely appointed car and the performance is not important.*

*Cost plays a role here and if it doesn't, then this statement's truth becomes obvious (without diving deeply into details)!

When I bought my first Audi, an A4, there was no S model. I loved my A4, then I drove an S! My '13 is my 2nd S4, 1st used Audi, & 4th Audi in the family!

[Low Orbit]

With the lease, where you able to do any mods? I'm in the market to buy a 2016 s4 but not sure if I should just buy it out right and own it or finance it and then pay it off in like 5 months... I want to do mods but I also want to keep any type of warranty that comes with the purchase of the car.

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Engine mods will void the warranty (will automatically flag TD1(?) when diagnosed at dealer) but I think you could add new rims, CR-15 or 035 rear sway bars without issues. My car is stock but plan to add the latter two mods when I buy the car.

I would recommend one with sport diff and importantly, get a CPO if possible as I've heard the sport diff and DSG cost a lot to fix if have issues.

[nicknice91303]

Engine mods will void the warranty (will automatically flag TD1(?) when diagnosed at dealer) but I think you could add new rims, CR-15 or 035 rear sway bars without issues. My car is stock but plan to add the latter two mods when I buy the car.

I would recommend one with sport diff and importantly, get a CPO if possible as I've heard the sport diff and DSG cost a lot to fix if have issues.

I'm only looking for S4's or S6 with sport diff.. well I would wonder if intake and exhaust would also void any sort of CPO? I had a feeling a tune would show up. But I mean if something was to happen a cat back touring set up and a intake would be fairly easy to swap back to stock... Dealer would never know. But WITH a CPO is there any guidelines needed to follow for basic Maintance? Like do I HAVE to bring it to dealer to do to keep the warranty valid? I usually ALWAYS do all my own basic Maintance to my cars and mods..

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[EstorilS4]

B8.5 with a 6MT!

[doublespeeded]

I have to say I have been following this thread along with others about the S4 b8.5. I am a E60 BMW owner and I'm to looking to buy the b8.5 s4. I looked into the A4 and A6 but just wasn't what I liked. I am into tuning cars and having alittle fun. But I want to thank you along with everyone else in here. It's like a little family of car lovers lol. I joined almost 2 years ago when I got my bmw and now with the audi groups I find myself in these forums more then anything. I have talked with some very Knowledgeable people and even made some purchases from members for parts. I can't wait to get my S4 and begin my journey with it....

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Sorry i just saw your reply now.
Yes, i really like Audizine also. It is by far the best forum i had ever joined and ive been in many a forums during my time (as you know how Forums work with people on thier high horse and keyboard warriors these days). Everyone here is extremely courteous and very helpful i find.

I also notice that the S4 owners have been more welcoming and warm towards my thread than the A4 members.

The Chain tensioner remains a potential issue at least in '13 and 14s.

is that the same tensioner that was present in VW and Audi in the 2.0T during 2009 - 2012?

As a 3 month old B8.5 S4 owner coming from 9 years of 2007 A4 2.0T and 6 years of 2000 A4 3.2. In regards to your question;
1.) between a B8 S4 and B8.5 A4, id go S4 all the way. This is assuming gas mileage is not a concern to you. I miss my A4 gas mileage so much.
So as it stands, I would not trade/give up my S4 for any A4.

I actually have heard that the main drawback of a day-to-day ownership of an S4 is the gas mileage
How much difference in Mileage are we talking? lol

The Mileage for A4 isnt the best for a 4- banger turbo, but isn't that bad, even at stage 2. infact, i think stage 2 on normal driving has better economy than OEM untuned ECU.

B8.5 S4 all the way. Supercharger and DSG/manual make it more fun than a B9 S4 and far better than an A4 (B8.5 or B9). In addition, the B8.5 S4 is in the sweet spot as major issues addressed and the B9 may have issues we don't know about yet.
.

Thats actually a good point that I hadn't thought about myself. Since the S4 2009 - 2013 V6T was the early version with problems, and then addressed. Same as the A4 2.0T Gen II which had all sorts of issues until it was all pretty much fixed up in 2013 and then they released the A4 with GEN III, which is an all round, better motor.

But i heard the 2015 onwards B8.5 S4 is not tunable, is that true?

People choose S4 models because they tend to like the better performance and the tighter package.*
People choose A4 models because it's a nicely appointed car and the performance is not important.*

*Cost plays a role here and if it doesn't, then this statement's truth becomes obvious (without diving deeply into details)!

When I bought my first Audi, an A4, there was no S model. I loved my A4, then I drove an S! My '13 is my 2nd S4, 1st used Audi, & 4th Audi in the family!

What i find 'Bad' about my A4 at Stage II, is the long Gears... which was intended for fuel efficiency... but is a disadvantage when it comes to performance.

I'm only looking for S4's or S6 with sport diff.. well I would wonder if intake and exhaust would also void any sort of CPO? I had a feeling a tune would show up. But I mean if something was to happen a cat back touring set up and a intake would be fairly easy to swap back to stock... Dealer would never know. But WITH a CPO is there any guidelines needed to follow for basic Maintance? Like do I HAVE to bring it to dealer to do to keep the warranty valid? I usually ALWAYS do all my own basic Maintance to my cars and mods..

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Nick, fill me in on the sport diff? i dont think we have that option in Australia... i think all the S4 mechanically are the same... just different creature comfort options.

By the way, for me; even if it voids warranty, id still get the Intake and full Exhaust done. The intake sound as well as the exhaust note is one of the main things that make it shine!

[nicknice91303]

Sorry i just saw your reply now.
Yes, i really like Audizine also. It is by far the best forum i had ever joined and ive been in many a forums during my time (as you know how Forums work with people on thier high horse and keyboard warriors these days). Everyone here is extremely courteous and very helpful i find.

I also notice that the S4 owners have been more welcoming and warm towards my thread than the A4 members.





is that the same tensioner that was present in VW and Audi in the 2.0T during 2009 - 2012?



I actually have heard that the main drawback of a day-to-day ownership of an S4 is the gas mileage
How much difference in Mileage are we talking? lol

The Mileage for A4 isnt the best for a 4- banger turbo, but isn't that bad, even at stage 2. infact, i think stage 2 on normal driving has better economy than OEM untuned ECU.







Thats actually a good point that I hadn't thought about myself. Since the S4 2009 - 2013 V6T was the early version with problems, and then addressed. Same as the A4 2.0T Gen II which had all sorts of issues until it was all pretty much fixed up in 2013 and then they released the A4 with GEN III, which is an all round, better motor.

But i heard the 2015 onwards B8.5 S4 is not tunable, is that true?




What i find 'Bad' about my A4 at Stage II, is the long Gears... which was intended for fuel efficiency... but is a disadvantage when it comes to performance.




Nick, fill me in on the sport diff? i dont think we have that option in Australia... i think all the S4 mechanically are the same... just different creature comfort options.

By the way, for me; even if it voids warranty, id still get the Intake and full Exhaust done. The intake sound as well as the exhaust note is one of the main things that make it shine!

Look on YouTube S4 sport diff. There is a really cool video that explains what it is and exactly how it works. I didn't know it was not available in Australia. I was actually very tempted to have my brother inlaw find me a nice right hand drive S4 from.UK and see what shipping would be to the states lol just for laughs.

As for the intake and exhaust lol that is my whole thing aswell. I love the sound of the SC when that rocauto intake is on and the AWE touring exhaust with catted down pipes. Very little drone once the down pipes are taken care of.. Here in the state of Connecticut we have emissions so I can't run with no cats...

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[Low Orbit]

I'm only looking for S4's or S6 with sport diff.. well I would wonder if intake and exhaust would also void any sort of CPO? I had a feeling a tune would show up. But I mean if something was to happen a cat back touring set up and a intake would be fairly easy to swap back to stock... Dealer would never know. But WITH a CPO is there any guidelines needed to follow for basic Maintance? Like do I HAVE to bring it to dealer to do to keep the warranty valid? I usually ALWAYS do all my own basic Maintance to my cars and mods..

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I would talk to the dealer service dept for details to be safe regarding mods and CPO.