Audi A4 3.0 versus S60 AWD ?

That's a tough call, since both are very nice.

Despite the higher hp and torque, I suspect the A4 3.0 w/ Quattro and auto trans is not going to be faster than the S60 AWD (7.5 seconds 0-60). Also the S60 is a tad bigger.

The free maintenance with the A4 is nice though. I also like the interior of the A4 better, as well as the availability of manual transmission. Styling-wise, I still prefer the S60--but that is subjective.

I suspect you could get more off the MSRP on the S60, but I could be wrong.

Have you driven both yet?

Good luck!

ps: here's a comparison link from edmunds: http://applications.edmunds.com/products/vc/VehicleComparison?year=2002&make=Audi&model=A4&trim=3.0+quattro+AWD+4dr+Sedan+%283.0L+6cyl+5A%29&midyear=1&checkbox1=2002%3BAcura%3BTL%3 B3.2+Type+S+4dr+Sedan+%283.2L+6cyl+5A%29%3B1&checkbox2=2002%3BBMW%3B3-Series%3B330i+Rwd+4dr+Sedan+%283.0L+6cyl+5M%29%3B1&checkbox3=2002%3BVolvo%3BS60%3BAWD+4dr+Sedan+%282.4L+5cyl+T urbo+5A%29%3B1&fullcompare=See+Full+Comparison

If it were me, in that situation I would have to honestly go with the Audi. I really like the new A4 3.0 Quattro, but I would not get one without the Sports and Premium Packages. I really like everything about the car, except for the derivative 'Audi' styling.
If you end up getting a manual transmission A4 3.0, make sure the arm-rest does not get in the way, because this has been very constant complaint on Audiworld, sort of an 'ergonomic flaw' with the interior.

I like the A4 3.0 QMS over the S60 2.4T AWD, but on the other hand, if this were a T5 vs. 3.0 comparison, I would have to go with the T5. For some reason, the new VAG 3.0 engine IMHO, isn't living up to added horsepower/torque + speed/acceleration equation, unlike the new BMW 3.0 I6 engine which is just awesome all the way around.

-Drew

quote:

Originally posted by JCJ:
I am trying to decide between Audi and Volvo for my next car.

Loaded S60 AWD = $38,300 (without Navigation package)

Loaded Audi A4 3.0 AWD = $38,960 (with same options as S60)

The Audi has six cylinders, more horsepower and higher torque. Also, Audi has four years of free scheduled maintenance.

I like the styling of the S60 but it seems overpriced for what you get.

Any comments?

Click to expand...

I drove the new A4 last month since it kind of intrigued me. Neat car! Style-wise, the interior is very well done, high quality, not as simple as the interiors you find inside a Volvo (which can be both good and bad)...Audi has always built nice interiors. But the exterior is fairly mundane, they (VWs, Audis, Skodas, etc.) all look the same. Cars without persobality. The new 3.0l engine is much improved although I would question the claim that it may be quicker than the S60AWD. For the MY2002, the LPT engine is much more responside, in the same way the 2002 S80 2.9 is way too quicker than the 2001 model. After driving the new A4, I think that the S60 AWD would AT LEAST be able to stay even with the A4 if not beat it.

As far as the MSRP, I don't know where you got $38,300. We have a few here, in stock, with every option available (Metallic paint, Cold Weather, Premium Package, Touring Package and 17" alloys)...the MSRP is $37,200 (incl. destination charge). So, that makes it cheaper than the Audi. As far as maintnenance, for $1,200 or so, any Volvo Retailer can cover your scheduled maintenance for 4 years, so Audi is not really giving you anything for free.

Hope this helped!

Yannis