Back in March I took a look at two Audi A4s, comparing an early FronTrak example to a late loaded Avant. Though it looked to be in good shape, the running condition of the ’96 was in question. More problematic, it was a front driver, and hooked to the Tiptronic 5-speed automatic. As a result, despite the low entry price point, it was really hard to get excited about it.
Today’s A4 remedies many of the ailments afflicting that particular A4. It’s still in an Audi signature color combination from the 90s; in this case, Emerald Green Mica over Ecru leatherette. But the highlight here is the drivetrain, with the much more desirable 5-speed manual driving all four wheels through the combination of a Torsen center differential and an electronic rear differential “lock”. Best of all? It’s in great condition and the auction is no reserve!
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1996 Audi A4 2.8 quattro on eBay
Year: 1996
Model: A4 2.8 quattro
Engine: 2.8 liter V6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 139,500 mi
Price: No Reserve Auction
purchased, from 2nd owner that owned for 17 yrs., for high school aged son who has decided he wants an automatic. Runs great, shifts smoothly. wheels recently painted, new battery, new tires, all new brake hoses, fresh oil change. drivers seat has small crack in vinyl. has a couple of small dings. just passed inspection. has just under 140,000 miles. airbag light is intermittent
will assist in shipping
Little information is offered but the general condition of this car is pretty outstanding from what is shown. The refinished wheels offset the Emerald Mica nicely, and the clearcoat doesn’t appear to have failed. Separation of the leatherette is pretty typical but hasn’t progressed very far, so it looks very salvageable. The seller has done minor fixes to prepare his Millennial for classic German motoring, only to find that in stereotypical Millennial fashion, he can’t be bothered to shift. May I suggest an alternative A4 front driver, Sir?
The result is that you can snap up this clean example for a song, currently. With a few days remaining, bidding is slow and probably will stay that way, as few are really seeking out early A4s as drivers. Plus, the tuning scene isn’t into these either, since you can get a 1.8T or, even better, a S4 for well under $5,000. I’d guess this A4 isn’t likely to break $3,000, and for that you’ll be rewarded with a simple yet lovely example of Audi’s popular platform.
-Carter
His son can’t bother to drive a manual. Sad. He deserves a life of soulless Camrys and minivans.
Does this car have the 12-valve V6 or the 30-valve? It’s darn nice either way—gotta love the three-spoke sport steering wheel and the euro trunk lid, which is plenty rare on a B5—but if it’s got the power of five valves per cylinder then it’s really one worth having.
@John – ’96 was 12V only, the 30V came out late-97 for the ’98 model year with a revised sport package.
PSA: The youngest Millennials are 22. The oldest are in their late 30s… A lot closer to middle aged than teenage-hood.
That being said, sweet ride and if it stays under $3k as you predict, a great buy. Keep in mind it’s on Cape Cod, the land of the salt… Buyer be warned.
The unicorn would be a Jaspis 30v, not with gray interior.