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Baby It’s Cold Outside – 10K Friday AWD-Off

Maybe you’re lucky, and it’s sunny and warm where you’re reading this. Or, perhaps you’re stuck under a rock – or in the case of Buffalo, several feet of snow. But like it or not, winter is upon us a bit early this year, and if you are in Buffalo you probably need some sort of snow-cat to get to the local store. Hopefully, that’s not the case for most of you but I wondered what sort of all-wheel drive car you could get on a $10,000 budget. As it turns out, you might be able to get a little more than you expected – so here’s a few offerings from the different manufacturers, starting with the folks that started it all:

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 2004 Audi A4 3.0 quattro on eBay


Year: 2004
Model: A4 3.0 quattro
Engine: 3.0 liter V6
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Mileage: 72,585 mi
Price: $9,750 Buy It Now

This vehicle is a real beauty. Low miles, brand new Pirelli P6 Plus Four Season tires, new clutch, and recent oil change and 99 point inspection. This was the last A4 model featuring the 3.0L 220hp engine. It is now only available in the larger A6, which means this little car really moves! The all-weather premium package makes it the ideal car for wet or icy conditions, but is also perfect for everyday driving.

TECHNICAL
3.0L 220hp DOHC aluminum V6 engine
6-speed manual transmission with synchronized reverse gear
ABS (Anti-Lock Brakes)
Brake Assist
Quattro permanent all-wheel drive system with EDL (Electronic Differential Lock)
ESP (Electronic Stabilization Program)
17″ Cast Alloy Wheels
NEW 215/55 all-season tires
Full size spare with matching alloy wheel
Four-link front suspension
Trapezoidal link, fully independent rear suspension
Rack and pinion power steering

PREMIUM PACKAGE
Glass Sunroof with power tilt and slide
Homelink Remote transmitter
Auto-dimming interior Mirror with compass
Auto-dimming exterior mirrors
Memory for driver side seat adjustment
Memory for driver side mirror position
Xenon Headlights
Multi-function steering wheel
Light sensor package
Heated front seats
Ski sack

COMFORT/CONVENIENCE
Automatic dual-zone climate control with dust and pollen filter
Front and rear power windows with ‘one-touch’ and pinch protection
Electronic cruise control
Power central locking system with selective unlocking
12-way power front seats
60/40 Split folding rear seat
Genuine wood belt line trim
3-spoke leather wrapped sport steering wheel
Concealed headlight washer system
Audi Symphony AM/FM radio with in-dash 6-disc CD changer

SAFETY/SECURITY
Driver and front passenger next generation airbag supplemental restraint system
Driver and front passenger seat mounted side airbag supplemental restraints
SIDEGUARD (TM) inflatable curtain airbags
Electronically adjustable heated outside rear view mirrors
Front and rear 3-point safety belts with automatic pretensioning, front belts with force limiters
Anti-theft vehicle alarm system and ignition immobilizer

If you wanted a luxury all-wheel drive sedan in the 1980s, Audi was your only option. They made it so inseparable from the brand that many people don’t realize that Audi’s bread and butter in the 1980s were front drive sedans. But if you’re looking for a winter all-wheel driver, Audi still seems to be the go-to and obvious choice for getting a grip. This A4 3.0 quattro is a nice one; it’s got the silky smooth 3.0 V6 that makes nice noises and provides good speed. It’s not as grunty as the 3.2 or as much of a rush as the turbo engines, but it’s nice. The color combination is popular but a bit boring for my liking; actually, in many ways, that summarizes most of the A4 lineup. It’s the safe choice, and though I’m a big Audi fan, it’s not the one I’d make.

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 2004 BMW 330XI on eBay


Year: 2004
Model: 330XI
Engine: 3.0 liter inline-6
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Mileage: 94,000 mi
Price: $9,250 Buy It Now

2004 BMW 330XI ***Gorgeous very clean low low milage***

I have decided it is time to sell my gorgeous 2004 BMW 330XI. It is a very low milage car with only 94,XXX miles. She has been very well maintained, with all services preformed at their regular intervals including the brand new brake pads and rotors that were just installed. The pictures speak for themselves but please don’t hesitate to contact me at 203-927-0442. Text is the preferred method, but emails and phone calls are fine too. If you call please be sure and leave a voice mail. I do have a clean title for the car as and it has never been in an accident, the only thing she’ll need are a new seat of sneakers very soon.

Featured features:
All wheel drive
All leather interior
Heated Seats
Harmon Kardon Sound System
Rain sensing wipers
Xenon Headlights
Automatic headlight cleaners
Heated front seats
Folding rear seats
Premium Package
Cold weather package
Sunroof
Privacy/tinted windows 3M window film

Features:
Power mirror
Heated mirrors
Telescoping steering wheel
Tilt steering wheel
Remote keyless entry
Inductive charging key remote
Power windows
One touch window action
Power locks
Cruise/speed control
Memory seats
Power moon roof
Automatic temperature/climate control
Ice cold air conditioning
AM/FM radio
CD Player
Steering wheel mounted audio controls
Trip
Outside temperature display
Freeze warning system
Tachometer
Rear window defroster
Variable intermittent wipers
Fog lights

Engine:
I-6 3.0 liter, 225 HP, 214 ft-lb torque
Variable valve control
Automatic transmission
Sequential sport shifter/ Steptronic
All wheel drive
Hill decent control
Traction control
Stability control
ABS (4-wheel)

The 330XI really brought the E46 3 series onto a level playing field with Audi in the all-wheel drive category, though it’s not immediately thought of. This example looks quite well cared for though I don’t like the too-dark tint. With 20,000 more miles than the Audi, I’d hope for a more extensive service history or better options. Again, the color pallet is popular but boring, and I don’t think that the E46 sedan is quite as clean of a design as the B6 Audi, so it also wouldn’t be my choice.

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 2004 Mercedes-Benz E500 4Matic on eBay


Year: 2004
Model: E500
Engine: 5.0 liter V8
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Mileage: 83,750 mi
Price: $8,500 Buy It Now

This is a really nice E500. Never in an accident, two owner, well cared for, never smoked in and garaged.
Recent inspection by Mercedes shows mechanically sound in all respects. Drives straight and tight. The E500 has considerable power and is very responsive.

With the exception of a couple sand chips and half inch long scratch that is shown in the pictures, the paint is very, very nice.
The interior is virtually blemish free. The blue leather interior is elegant with no crinkling or cracking…just soft and supple leather seats that emit heat and air.

It is equipped with Distronic radar that keeps a distance between you and the car ahead of you while in cruise control. It has tire pressure monitors, backup and forward bumper sensors.

A very reliable car, with a rare color combination. Bid with confidence and remember,
THERE IS NO RESERVE.

10 Percent due within 3 days via bank check or wire. Balance in full within seven days.
There is no warranty written or implied.

Please only bid if you fully intend to buy the car. Ask questions and do due dilligence before the auction closes, not after.

Thank you.

Well, now we’re talking. Why settle for a V6 or inline-6 when you could have a big stomping Mercedes-Benz V8? I actually really like overall how these 4Matic E500s look; subtle aggressive that channels the original 500E. Plus, this one has lower miles than the BMW, the condition looks fantastic and the color combination is lovely in my opinion. On top of that, the price is lower! But if you’re going for luxury…why not go a bit over the top?

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton on eBay


Year: 2004
Model: Phaeton
Engine: 4.2 liter V8
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Mileage: 121,557 mi
Price: $8,990 Buy It Now

THIS IS A 2004 VOLKSWAGEN PHAETON V8 THAT IS CARFAX CERTIFIED. THIS PHAETON IS HAND BUILT IN GERMANY WITH IT COUSIN THE BENTLEY GT AND BENTLEY FLYING SPUR. THE PHAETON AND BENTLEY SHARE THE SAME FRAME. THIS VOLKSWAGEN PHAETON IS FULLY SERVICE AND HAS ALL NEW FLUIDS

0
VIN WVWAF63D048009258
Vehicle Accidents/Service NONE
Year 2004 Engine Type 4.2L V8 DOHC 40V
Make Volkswagen Driveline all-wheel drive
Model Phaeton Ground Clearance 5.00 in.
Trim Level V8 Front Brake Type Disc
Manufactured In GERMANY Rear Brake Type Disc
Body Style SEDAN 4-DR Anti-Brake System 4-Wheel ABS
Transmission 6-Speed Automatic Overdrive
Standard Seating 5
MPG Hwy 22 miles/gallon Optional Seating 4
MPG City 15 miles/gallon Tires 235/55R17
Dealer Invoice $59,276 USD Wheelbase 118.10 in.
MSRP $64,600 USD Curb Weight 5194 lbs

You could get into a Passat 4Motion at this price point, but why not go for the whole fat version of Volkswagen’s all-wheel drive platform. As it shared a platform with the Bentleys, the Phaeton is an incredibly nice place to be; eerily quite and serene but also quite competent in the white stuff. $10,000 isn’t going to get you the best example, but this 2004 is quite nice looking with Challenge wheels and classic if a little predictable silver over black color combination. Even with 40,000 miles more than the Mercedes-Benz, I think that I’d choose this car first. Of course, what if I thought outside the box?

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1999 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Convertible on eBay


Year: 1999
Model: Carrera 4 Convertible
Engine: 3.4 liter flat-6
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Mileage: 149,000 mi
Price: $10,800 Buy It Now

Take a look at our Accident Free 1999 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet 4 Door Sedan, which features a 3.4L Flat 6 engine, and a 6 Speed Manual transmission. The engine and transmission operate GREAT. The engine has no issues. All mechanical components function properly as well.

The interior features leather upholstery with reclining split front bucket seats. Dashboard items include standard A/C controls, CD Player, and Navigation. Other features include Antilock Brakes, Front Airbags, Intermittent Wipers, Power Seats, Power Brakes, Power Windows, Power Locks, Power Mirrors, Power Steering and Tinted Windows.

This Porsche does have a few issues and reflects in the price. The car runs and drive but it’s head gasket needs to be replaced. There is no engine knocking still runs like normal. Also the top will not open. The engine runs smooth with absolutely no smoke or leaks! All the power equipment and gauges work! This 911 has many more miles to give!!! Don’t miss this chance to own this great sedan.

Purchase with Confidence, and please, contact us with any questions you may have. Please call us at
281-636-3800.

Every effort is made to describe each vehicle exactly as it is. Your satisfaction is assured. As with most pre-owned vehicles, minor wear may be discernable and degree of wear is often related to age of the vehicle. We look forward to serving you and assisting you in all aspects of the sale.

We guarantee titles are free of notation, unless otherwise disclosed. All vehicles are sold AS IS and without warranties, unless noted in the description.

I feel a bit like Mike from Wheeler Dealers here with this Porsche 911 Carrera 4 convertible. Can you believe that you could get this car for under $11,000? Sure, it’s got high miles. Sure, it’s not in perfect condition – there are plenty of nicks and scratches plus some missing trim. But it’s a bleeding Porsche 911, for goodness sake! It’s not the prettiest 911, nor is it the most reliable – but by golly it’s certainly the most affordable way into a 911 these days, and the all-wheel drive coupled with the convertible means that you can conquer 4 seasons in style and speed.

Okay, the 911 probably isn’t the way I’d go – I’d likely opt for either the Phaeton or the E500. Both look to be in good condition, and on the surface I’d prefer the Volkswagen – but that Mercedes is sure tempting at that price and condition. Which would you choose and why?

-Carter

9 Comments

  1. Ry
    Ry November 21, 2014

    I saw the lead photos on the A4 and thought “this guy has to be a photographer, or he stole those stock photos…” Yep, a photographer (per his eBay handle). What a difference something other than an iPhone camera makes!

    I’d go with the Phaeton, because even if something bad happens to it – how much more can it depreciate? It wouldn’t be a car I’d want to own for 5 or more years I suspect though. And, I heart large sedans…I haven’t owned one in too long.

    The 911 I almost want to try just for novelty and keep a blog listing all its expenses. That vehicle is really an odd duck – who needs AWD & a convertible top in a Porsche, simultaneously? You’re telling me that household doesn’t already have like 3-4 vehicles? I can’t fight it though – a quick glance at the “build a 911” page on their website gives a frightening amount of bodies & drive trains to start with, so it must be working for them.

    The Benz ad reminded me that the other day someone listed a “forematic” on eBay, and spelled it that way multiple times. How can you misspell something written on your car?! And is a Forematic for golfers only? Lol

  2. wayne
    wayne November 21, 2014

    How do you know the benz is 4matic? I dont see the usual badge on the rear

  3. Ry
    Ry November 21, 2014

    You’re right @Wayne…the ad has conflicting statements, but the VIN decodes to RWD.

    mbworld.org/forums/vindecoder.php?vin=wdbuf70j74a474284

  4. Brad
    Brad November 21, 2014

    I’m impressed the Audi has clear headlights! Pity it’s not a 3.2.

    A mechanic told me today V engines sound better, usually, than I engines. Is this somewhat or generally true? I always wish the German cars would have stuck with their inlines that they mostly ditched 20 years ago.

    I hate the way MB does that lame ass, there I said it, baby blue interior, especially when it’s made worse by matching it to the paint. It reminds me of Dr. T and the Women. Plus the dash design is lame, overly feminine, and the steering wheel is horrible even to look at.

    I’d go with the Phaeton just because I’d be a grizzly. But not this one, the colors are utterly plebeian.

  5. John
    John November 21, 2014

    Always love your Friday articles Carter. I like the Phaeton in this color combo: http://showroom.auction123.com/international_motorcars_of_pittsburgh/inventory/7787/2004/Volkswagen/Phaeton/WVWAF63D048009776.html#lg
    But honestly don’t think I could afford to keep one going. So, I think the 330xi might work if I could find one that had both the 6 spd. and the sport package.
    It’s interesting how some wheels can jazz up a silver Phaeton: http://chicago.craigslist.org/chc/cto/4751273694.html Love that profile shot.

  6. Carter
    Carter November 22, 2014

    Thanks, John! I love that eggplant color too. The Phaeton below I saw too, but don’t like that the wheels are replicas.

  7. MDriver
    MDriver November 22, 2014

    nice collection!! makes a decision very hard…
    I guess it all hinges on your wish list of cars to have and honestly how big of a wallet or mechanical skill you have when these things need serious stuff…
    the P-Car is a throwaway…sorry…a 99 996 the worst of the breed.
    the VW is cool for it’s you don’t see many around factor…but there was a reason for that…
    the BMW is a stall-worth, dependable, very good in the snow and the 330 is better than the 325 of same vintage( I know, I have one as my winter ride)…
    the Audi looks like so much fun as a 6 speed and the B6 is one of my favorite styles….but again like the VW when crap brakes and it will..break out your wallet
    now we come to the Merc. if it is indeed a 4-Matic for me I’d take that puppy all day…just for the V8 and luxury bits…hell it won’t be my DD here in the northeast!…if Ry is correct and its not awd…
    I’m taking the Audi….just so I can row my boat…
    Nice finds!

  8. Brad
    Brad November 22, 2014

    MDriver: you just called accused the BMW of being “worthy of stalling” haha. You meant stalwart.

    I looked it up and apparently one can only get an A4 with the 3.2 in the body style that includes something I very much dislike: the grille that makes the car look like it has a goatee.

    The silver VW on craigs: maybe it’s the light paint on the c pillar but it makes the car look very similar to a first and third generation Lexus GS. Pity.

  9. MDriver
    MDriver November 22, 2014

    @Brad ooops so I did…a Freudian slip???…LOL
    typing is not my strong suit and English is not my first language…sorry gents!

Comments are closed.