C230 Kompressor vs. Audi A4 1.8T
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2000 E320
C230 Kompressor vs. Audi A4 1.8T
Hey all,
I'm very close to buying a new car and am seriously considering both of these options. Any opinions? Obviously this is a Mercedes forum, but any regrets? Wish you'd done things differently? I've driven several W203s and really like the styling and interior. Havn't driven the A4 but am drawn to it for its mod-ability. Any input appreciated.
Josh
I'm very close to buying a new car and am seriously considering both of these options. Any opinions? Obviously this is a Mercedes forum, but any regrets? Wish you'd done things differently? I've driven several W203s and really like the styling and interior. Havn't driven the A4 but am drawn to it for its mod-ability. Any input appreciated.
Josh
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Joined: Mar 2008
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Mercedes Benz c230
If you're looking at the A4 1.8T, I'm guessing the two cars are attracting you for the same reason as it did me. The gas mileage for both are insanely comparable and efficient.
I too like the Mercedes' interior and styling. The Audi however can be chipped easily for tremendous gains. Something we dont' see with the C-classes.
No regrets so far. I love the c.
I too like the Mercedes' interior and styling. The Audi however can be chipped easily for tremendous gains. Something we dont' see with the C-classes.
No regrets so far. I love the c.
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Joined: Apr 2003
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From: Boston
'05 A4 1.8TQM6
I would also drive the A4 if you get a chance to. Not a good idea to only be drawn to it for the modability 
Drive both back to back if possible so you can get a good comparison between the two.
As far as modding goes, there is lots of aftermarket tuner support for Audi. Doesn't cost too much to get some good power out of the 1.8T engine either. Just an example, ECU software flash ($500) puts you to about 210hp/230lb-ft. Add larger fuel injectors ($450 for parts and install) puts you to about 240hp/260lb-ft. Compare to 170hp/166lb-ft stock, which is a bit anemic. Numbers are at the crank and have been dyno'd by various Audi owners running these setups. Those are the two most common and least expensive power upgrades before upgrading the turbo (K04) or going BAT (Big *** Turbo).
Drive both back to back if possible so you can get a good comparison between the two. As far as modding goes, there is lots of aftermarket tuner support for Audi. Doesn't cost too much to get some good power out of the 1.8T engine either. Just an example, ECU software flash ($500) puts you to about 210hp/230lb-ft. Add larger fuel injectors ($450 for parts and install) puts you to about 240hp/260lb-ft. Compare to 170hp/166lb-ft stock, which is a bit anemic. Numbers are at the crank and have been dyno'd by various Audi owners running these setups. Those are the two most common and least expensive power upgrades before upgrading the turbo (K04) or going BAT (Big *** Turbo).
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From: Long Beach, CA
'02 C230K Coupe
How are the A4's handling wise?
I was thinking of picking up an A4 as a play/tuner car since there are several in my area for ~$3000. Are there any websites or forums you could reco for tuning/track?
edit: Side questions, what year is the B5? Thanks!
I was thinking of picking up an A4 as a play/tuner car since there are several in my area for ~$3000. Are there any websites or forums you could reco for tuning/track?
edit: Side questions, what year is the B5? Thanks!
Last edited by datgai; Mar 26, 2008 at 02:08 PM.
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From: Boston
'05 A4 1.8TQM6
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'07 GTI & '04 M3
I would go for an '04 or '05 A4 1.8T Ultra Sport. Those look sick stock...with the OEM body kit and 18" rims.
They fetch higher dollars though than standard A4's, mostly due to their exclusivity, but totally worth it. Rightfully so, they were more expensive new.
The A4 is a smaller car, a little more agile I think. I had a highly modded B5 A4 1.8TQM and LOVED it. Now I have the Benz, and I like it, but totally different car. I originally wanted an Ultra, then just settled for a nicely equipped A4, but couldn't find one that met all my criteria on color, options, cleanliness, etc....esp w/o travelling accross the country for a $20k car. I ended up with the Benz bought out of lease as as we leased it new, ordered to fit our needs and know all the history.
Also keep in mind that A4's do not have as good as resale value as Benz's, mostly due to reputation and society status
despite the A4 is a great car and has industry benchmarked interior design and fit/finish.
GL
They fetch higher dollars though than standard A4's, mostly due to their exclusivity, but totally worth it. Rightfully so, they were more expensive new.
The A4 is a smaller car, a little more agile I think. I had a highly modded B5 A4 1.8TQM and LOVED it. Now I have the Benz, and I like it, but totally different car. I originally wanted an Ultra, then just settled for a nicely equipped A4, but couldn't find one that met all my criteria on color, options, cleanliness, etc....esp w/o travelling accross the country for a $20k car. I ended up with the Benz bought out of lease as as we leased it new, ordered to fit our needs and know all the history.
Also keep in mind that A4's do not have as good as resale value as Benz's, mostly due to reputation and society status
despite the A4 is a great car and has industry benchmarked interior design and fit/finish.GL
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Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 180
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From: Long Beach, CA
'02 C230K Coupe
I assume it's pretty easy to find high performance COs and suspension components that don't cost an arm and a leg?
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Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 3,212
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From: Pasadena, CA
2002 C230K, 2013 BMW 328, 2015 BMW X5
What was the first year of the 2.0 model?
I drove a 2.0 Audi, but it was an automatic, which really kept the turbo from .... well being a turbo.
Handling was crisp, yet, a comfortable ride.
The interior was the best part. Audi knows how to design an interior.
Heck, I would consider one.
Are the 2.0 liters as easy to mod as the 1.8s?
E
I drove a 2.0 Audi, but it was an automatic, which really kept the turbo from .... well being a turbo.
Handling was crisp, yet, a comfortable ride.
The interior was the best part. Audi knows how to design an interior.
Heck, I would consider one.
Are the 2.0 liters as easy to mod as the 1.8s?
E
Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 92
Likes: 0
'07 GTI & '04 M3
What was the first year of the 2.0 model?
I drove a 2.0 Audi, but it was an automatic, which really kept the turbo from .... well being a turbo.
Handling was crisp, yet, a comfortable ride.
The interior was the best part. Audi knows how to design an interior.
Heck, I would consider one.
Are the 2.0 liters as easy to mod as the 1.8s?
E
I drove a 2.0 Audi, but it was an automatic, which really kept the turbo from .... well being a turbo.
Handling was crisp, yet, a comfortable ride.
The interior was the best part. Audi knows how to design an interior.
Heck, I would consider one.
Are the 2.0 liters as easy to mod as the 1.8s?
E
the 2.0 is VERY receptive to modding...even better than the 1.8...just hit-up MkV GTI forum on vwvortex and see what those boys can do...
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Posts: 3,212
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From: Pasadena, CA
2002 C230K, 2013 BMW 328, 2015 BMW X5
Any idea on gas mileage on these babies?
So, the in 2005.5, they started releasing the 06s, which are the 2.0 A4 Turbos. The B7 right?
Just acclimating to the lingo.
I need to go to Autotrader and see what those are going for.
E
So, the in 2005.5, they started releasing the 06s, which are the 2.0 A4 Turbos. The B7 right?
Just acclimating to the lingo.
I need to go to Autotrader and see what those are going for.
E
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Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 4,781
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From: Boston
'05 A4 1.8TQM6
Yep, B6 = 2002-2005 (my body style). B7 = 2005.5 - current. B8 = 2009 (this Fall). The B6s came with painted lowers (body matched) in 2004.5+ also Bi-xenons were added and the 6-speed gearbox (prior was only a 5-speed on the 1.8T. The 3.0s always have had a 6-speed). The USP (ultrasport package) was a $2900 option. It added sport suspension, Aero kit (front spoiler, rear bumper cover, side skirts and trunk spoiler) 18" wheels, perforated leather steering wheel and shift knob and slightly larger door flares.
Rear USP:
Side USP:
Front USP:
The 2.0T is definitely just as modible as the 1.8T. A ECU flash alone ($500) boosts the 200hp/207tq to 245hp/293tq! Add larger fuel injectors and you've got a nice powerhouse from a 4 cyl turbo engine.
Suspension upgrades are pretty common. You can find a set of new COs for about $1000, depending on the brand. Common ones are Eibach, Vogtland, etc. Springs & shocks are about $600-$700 depending on the company.
Some of the '07s with low to decent mileage go for mid 20s. Earlier 2.0Ts can go for high 10s depending on mileage to low 20s.
Gas mileage is very good. Efficiency of a 4 cyl powerhouse yet pretty good on power when needed. Highway cruising can get you mid to high 20s (Even low 30s) depending on your right foot. City driving is pretty good as well, high teens to low 20s, again, depending on your right foot.
Rear USP:
Side USP:
Front USP:
The 2.0T is definitely just as modible as the 1.8T. A ECU flash alone ($500) boosts the 200hp/207tq to 245hp/293tq! Add larger fuel injectors and you've got a nice powerhouse from a 4 cyl turbo engine.
Suspension upgrades are pretty common. You can find a set of new COs for about $1000, depending on the brand. Common ones are Eibach, Vogtland, etc. Springs & shocks are about $600-$700 depending on the company.
Some of the '07s with low to decent mileage go for mid 20s. Earlier 2.0Ts can go for high 10s depending on mileage to low 20s.
Gas mileage is very good. Efficiency of a 4 cyl powerhouse yet pretty good on power when needed. Highway cruising can get you mid to high 20s (Even low 30s) depending on your right foot. City driving is pretty good as well, high teens to low 20s, again, depending on your right foot.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 3,212
Likes: 8
From: Pasadena, CA
2002 C230K, 2013 BMW 328, 2015 BMW X5
Yep, B6 = 2002-2005 (my body style). B7 = 2005.5 - current. B8 = 2009 (this Fall). The B6s came with painted lowers (body matched) in 2004.5+ also Bi-xenons were added and the 6-speed gearbox (prior was only a 5-speed on the 1.8T. The 3.0s always have had a 6-speed). The USP (ultrasport package) was a $2900 option. It added sport suspension, Aero kit (front spoiler, rear bumper cover, side skirts and trunk spoiler) 18" wheels, perforated leather steering wheel and shift knob and slightly larger door flares.
Rear USP:
Side USP:
Front USP:
The 2.0T is definitely just as modible as the 1.8T. A ECU flash alone ($500) boosts the 200hp/207tq to 245hp/293tq! Add larger fuel injectors and you've got a nice powerhouse from a 4 cyl turbo engine.
Suspension upgrades are pretty common. You can find a set of new COs for about $1000, depending on the brand. Common ones are Eibach, Vogtland, etc. Springs & shocks are about $600-$700 depending on the company.
Some of the '07s with low to decent mileage go for mid 20s. Earlier 2.0Ts can go for high 10s depending on mileage to low 20s.
Gas mileage is very good. Efficiency of a 4 cyl powerhouse yet pretty good on power when needed. Highway cruising can get you mid to high 20s (Even low 30s) depending on your right foot. City driving is pretty good as well, high teens to low 20s, again, depending on your right foot.
Rear USP:
Side USP:
Front USP:
The 2.0T is definitely just as modible as the 1.8T. A ECU flash alone ($500) boosts the 200hp/207tq to 245hp/293tq! Add larger fuel injectors and you've got a nice powerhouse from a 4 cyl turbo engine.
Suspension upgrades are pretty common. You can find a set of new COs for about $1000, depending on the brand. Common ones are Eibach, Vogtland, etc. Springs & shocks are about $600-$700 depending on the company.
Some of the '07s with low to decent mileage go for mid 20s. Earlier 2.0Ts can go for high 10s depending on mileage to low 20s.
Gas mileage is very good. Efficiency of a 4 cyl powerhouse yet pretty good on power when needed. Highway cruising can get you mid to high 20s (Even low 30s) depending on your right foot. City driving is pretty good as well, high teens to low 20s, again, depending on your right foot.
Thanks for the response. I did spend some time on KBB today. It was kinda rare to find cars in my search that were 06 for the low 20s.
I'm thinking about a newer used car. Getting close to 160k on my Merc, and...we'll see.
Think I might join up on some Audi forums and meet the guys.
Do they tend to be tech oriented? As in they wrench themselves. I have saved quite a bit doing the work myself.
Cept for the engine mounts. Gracias John!
E
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Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 4,781
Likes: 3
From: Boston
'05 A4 1.8TQM6
Thanks for the response. I did spend some time on KBB today. It was kinda rare to find cars in my search that were 06 for the low 20s.
I'm thinking about a newer used car. Getting close to 160k on my Merc, and...we'll see.
Think I might join up on some Audi forums and meet the guys.
Do they tend to be tech oriented? As in they wrench themselves. I have saved quite a bit doing the work myself.
Cept for the engine mounts. Gracias John!
E
I'm thinking about a newer used car. Getting close to 160k on my Merc, and...we'll see.
Think I might join up on some Audi forums and meet the guys.
Do they tend to be tech oriented? As in they wrench themselves. I have saved quite a bit doing the work myself.
Cept for the engine mounts. Gracias John!
E
Member
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 202
Likes: 0
From: Huntington Beach, California
2002 C230 Coupe
Thanks for the response. I did spend some time on KBB today. It was kinda rare to find cars in my search that were 06 for the low 20s.
I'm thinking about a newer used car. Getting close to 160k on my Merc, and...we'll see.
Think I might join up on some Audi forums and meet the guys.
Do they tend to be tech oriented? As in they wrench themselves. I have saved quite a bit doing the work myself.
Cept for the engine mounts. Gracias John!
E
I'm thinking about a newer used car. Getting close to 160k on my Merc, and...we'll see.
Think I might join up on some Audi forums and meet the guys.
Do they tend to be tech oriented? As in they wrench themselves. I have saved quite a bit doing the work myself.
Cept for the engine mounts. Gracias John!
E
Yup, Audi guys are very receptive and quite tech savvy. I don't know how many wrench themselves, but quite a few did (including myself.) Upgrades include software which can be done via the service port or by removing the ECU (which means drilling out the rivets for the tamper resistant cage, aka: chastity belt.)
Go with the 2.0T. A bit more punch and more refined IMO. The 2.0T, as others have stated, is very receptive to modifications. You can visit websites such as www.goapr.com or www.giacusa.com to get a feel for what the 2.0T is capable of.
Admittedly my '02 Coupe is probably going on the market soon for a 2005 or 2006 Audi A6 3.2. The C230 has been great and has only 78K miles, but I need another car in the fleet that can pull family duty. Those A6s only do 0-60 in 7 seconds, but get over 30 mpg highway. With a 21.1 gallon tank, that calculates to a bottom numbing 633 miles between fill-ups (most owners report 500 - 550 before they fill up though.) I'm in a rental G35 now which is a hoot to drive (0-60 in 5.2 seconds?) but gas mileage isn't particularly good.
Bob
P.S. E, your X1/9 looks great!
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Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 22,058
Likes: 18
From: Diamond Bar, CA
W206 PHEV AMG
LOL...B6 to B7 ...is basically a facelift, but they gave the same platform a new name...I like the B6 more tho, looks more muscular. The tail light of the B7 doesn't really suit that rear end.
B5 S4 is best if you really want to modify it. dump $5-6k into engine with most B5 RS4 parts and $2k into suspension and pads update you'd be killing all the modded C32s.
B5 S4 is best if you really want to modify it. dump $5-6k into engine with most B5 RS4 parts and $2k into suspension and pads update you'd be killing all the modded C32s.
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Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 3,212
Likes: 8
From: Pasadena, CA
2002 C230K, 2013 BMW 328, 2015 BMW X5
Yo E!
Yup, Audi guys are very receptive and quite tech savvy. I don't know how many wrench themselves, but quite a few did (including myself.) Upgrades include software which can be done via the service port or by removing the ECU (which means drilling out the rivets for the tamper resistant cage, aka: chastity belt.)
Go with the 2.0T. A bit more punch and more refined IMO. The 2.0T, as others have stated, is very receptive to modifications. You can visit websites such as www.goapr.com or www.giacusa.com to get a feel for what the 2.0T is capable of.
Admittedly my '02 Coupe is probably going on the market soon for a 2005 or 2006 Audi A6 3.2. The C230 has been great and has only 78K miles, but I need another car in the fleet that can pull family duty. Those A6s only do 0-60 in 7 seconds, but get over 30 mpg highway. With a 21.1 gallon tank, that calculates to a bottom numbing 633 miles between fill-ups (most owners report 500 - 550 before they fill up though.) I'm in a rental G35 now which is a hoot to drive (0-60 in 5.2 seconds?) but gas mileage isn't particularly good.
Bob
P.S. E, your X1/9 looks great!
Yup, Audi guys are very receptive and quite tech savvy. I don't know how many wrench themselves, but quite a few did (including myself.) Upgrades include software which can be done via the service port or by removing the ECU (which means drilling out the rivets for the tamper resistant cage, aka: chastity belt.)
Go with the 2.0T. A bit more punch and more refined IMO. The 2.0T, as others have stated, is very receptive to modifications. You can visit websites such as www.goapr.com or www.giacusa.com to get a feel for what the 2.0T is capable of.
Admittedly my '02 Coupe is probably going on the market soon for a 2005 or 2006 Audi A6 3.2. The C230 has been great and has only 78K miles, but I need another car in the fleet that can pull family duty. Those A6s only do 0-60 in 7 seconds, but get over 30 mpg highway. With a 21.1 gallon tank, that calculates to a bottom numbing 633 miles between fill-ups (most owners report 500 - 550 before they fill up though.) I'm in a rental G35 now which is a hoot to drive (0-60 in 5.2 seconds?) but gas mileage isn't particularly good.
Bob
P.S. E, your X1/9 looks great!
Thanks man.
Hows the F car? Are you able to get some runs in?
Whats with the rental?
I'm getting on avg 27mpg combined driving in the Coupe. So far, the car has been a champ.
E
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Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 202
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From: Huntington Beach, California
2002 C230 Coupe
If I were looking at an Audi 1.8T or 2.0T, I'd get either the latest B7 body style, or for far less money, get a 1997 B5 A4 1.8T with the sports package. The jacquard satin sports seats are really comfortable and hold you in, and there's plenty that can be done to boost the 1.8 liter motor's output.
The F-Car is doing great. Having fun driving it around. Need to do little stuff like changing the AC Compressor to a Sanden rotary compressor, and removing the mechanical smog pump and install an electric one, but that can all come in due time. Otherwise the F-car is ready to run. I take it out every week or a couple times a week.
Rental is because the family truckster (Nissan Murano) was rear-ended by an un-remorseful drunk driver. Family is OK (thank God) but the wife and I have some muscle strain. Car has been in the body shop for 3 weeks, and it'll be another week before it's done.
My C230 is getting in the high teens, mostly because of all the stop and go driving I do. On a longer trip with A/C and a full car, I was getting 27 mpg. I suspect that my higher speeds (75-90 mph) was the culprit, otherwise the car would have gotten better mileage. Would love to keep the C230, but I need 4 doors and reasonable back seat room...
