Best Car Reviews - 1999 Audi A4 quattro

Introduction

The 1999 Audi A4 quattro marked a significant year for the A4 lineup, appealing to those who value both style and performance in a compact luxury sedan. Released during an era when Audi was keen on asserting its prominence in the luxury car market, the A4 quattro attracted driving enthusiasts with its distinctive all-wheel-drive system and a refined V6 engine. Aimed primarily at young professionals and families looking for a reliable yet exhilarating drive, this model stood out with a balanced blend of performance, luxury, and technology.

Design and Exterior Features

The 1999 Audi A4 quattro showcased an elegant, aerodynamic design with a robust stance, befitting its sporty lineage. Its compact yet dynamic body formed a perfect combination of sophistication and sportiness, making the vehicle appealing to style-conscious buyers.

Sleek body lines enhancing its aerodynamic efficiency
Signature Audi grille, delivering a bold first impression
Well-integrated headlights and tail lamps for a modern look
Alloy wheels that complement its athletic appearance

Interior and Comfort

Inside the cabin, the Audi A4 quattro featured an exquisite layout with a focus on both driver and passenger comfort. Premium materials adorned the interior, providing a luxurious ambiance suitable for longer journeys.

Leather seating surfaces offering superior comfort
Ergonomic dashboard design, ensuring ease of use
Automatic climate control to maintain an optimal cabin environment
High-quality sound system enhancing the audio experience

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 1999 Audi A4 quattro came equipped with a V6 engine using premium gasoline paired with an automatic 5-speed transmission. The all-wheel-drive system provided a seamless driving experience under various conditions, making it ideal for both city and highway travel.

Acceleration: Reaches 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 7.1 seconds
Fuel Efficiency: Averages around 15.7 l/100 km, balancing power with economy
City Driving: Effortless maneuverability with precise steering response
Highway Cruising: Smooth and stable ride, even at higher speeds
Cornering: Confident handling, thanks to the all-wheel-drive system

Technology and Connectivity

While the 1999 Audi A4 quattro may not boast the high-tech features found in modern cars today, it was ahead of its time with several useful technological offerings.

Symphony Sound System, delivering stellar audio output
Basic digital display, providing essential driving information
Front and rear fog lights for improved visibility in poor conditions
Basic cruise control for convenient long-distance driving

Safety Features

Safety has always been a priority for Audi, and the 1999 A4 quattro was no exception, equipped with a range of features to protect both driver and passengers.

Dual front airbags for driver and passenger protection
Anti-lock braking system (ABS) ensuring better stopping control
Electronic stability program, enhancing vehicle stability
Side-impact protection for added safety
High safety ratings from period-specific crash test agencies

Pricing and Variants

The base price of the 1999 Audi A4 quattro started at approximately $28,000 USD. When compared to its competitors like the BMW 3 Series and the Mercedes C-Class, it offered competitive pricing with a hint of Audi's signature quattro advantage.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Exceptional all-wheel-drive system, enhancing traction and handling
Sleek, timeless design that ages gracefully
High-quality interior materials, providing comfort and luxury
Strong V6 engine with responsive performance
Solid safety ratings for peace of mind

Cons

Limited rear legroom, might be cramped for taller passengers
Higher fuel consumption compared to some competitors
Basic technology features, lacking modern connectivity options
Potential maintenance costs can be higher, given its age today
Resale value may not withstand as well as newer models

Maintenance and Common Issues

Ownership of the 1999 Audi A4 quattro involves certain maintenance costs and potential issues typical of vehicles its age.

Average annual maintenance cost around $1,200-$1,500 USD
Top 5 common issues include:
- Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets
- Cooling system issues, such as thermostat failures
- Transmission problems, including delayed shifting
- Electrical issues, often involving the dashboard display
- Suspension wear, especially on rough roads

Rating

Design: 8.5/10
Comfort: 7.5/10
Performance: 8.0/10
Technology: 6.5/10
Safety: 8.0/10

Overall Rating: 7.7/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"A real driving pleasure with the quattro system, especially during winter."
"The interior quality is superb, but the rear seats could use more space."
"It's reliable but be prepared for occasionally higher repair bills."
"A timeless design that still turns heads despite its age."
"The fuel efficiency isn't great, but the balance of power is worth it."

Best cars in this category

1999 BMW 3 Series
1999 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
1999 Volvo S40
1999 Lexus IS 200
1999 Saab 9-3

Summary

The 1999 Audi A4 quattro is best suited for those who prioritize performance and all-weather capabilities over the latest tech gadgets. While it may lack some modern connectivity features, its classic design and solid build quality continue to appeal to many enthusiasts. With its price point and features, it's a worthy contender in the world of compact luxury sedans, especially for those keen on Audi's legendary quattro system. Whether you're cruising city streets or navigating twisty back roads, the A4 quattro delivers a satisfying driving experience, making it a valuable choice for discerning drivers.