Best Car Reviews - 1999 Audi A4 Avant quattro

Introduction

The 1999 Audi A4 Avant quattro is a standout in its class, robustly engineered to provide an engaging driving experience while encapsulating the luxury expected from the Audi brand. Released in the late '90s, this small station wagon primarily targets those seeking a reliable and stylish family vehicle without compromising on performance and comfort. With its classic Audi engineering, the A4 Avant quattro showcases a blend of power and elegance, making it a significant model during its time of release.

Design and Exterior Features

The Audi A4 Avant quattro boasts a quintessential late '90s design that blends elegance with practicality. Its aerodynamic shape complements the vehicle's robust size, ensuring a strong road presence. Distinctive design elements help it stand out:

Sleek roofline for an aerodynamic profile.
Signature Audi grille flanked by clear-lens headlights.
Alloy wheels adding a sporty touch.
Clearly defined character lines running along the sides.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the A4 Avant quattro offers a spacious and welcoming atmosphere. The cabin layout is oriented towards driver comfort, boasting high-quality materials.

Leather upholstery providing a luxurious feel.
Ergonomically designed seats for long-distance comfort.
Ample cargo space, ideal for family trips.
Climatic air conditioning ensuring passenger comfort at all times.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 1999 A4 Avant comes with a V6 engine fueled by premium gasoline. It delivers thrilling driving dynamics with its manual 5-speed transmission.

Engine: 6 cylinders.
Acceleration: 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 8 seconds.
City driving: Smooth and agile, making it a breeze to navigate through traffic.
Highway driving: Delightfully stable with efficient cruising abilities.
Fuel efficiency: 14.875 l/100 km, a moderate level given the performance.

Technology and Connectivity

While technology in the late '90s wasn't as advanced as today, the Audi A4 Avant quattro integrated several innovative features:

Premium audio system for immersive sound.
Basic infotainment system with ease of use.
Connectivity features such as AM/FM radio and cassette player.
Optional CD player offered as an advanced feature at the time.

Safety Features

Safety in the Audi A4 Avant quattro is paramount, with a blend of standard and optional safety features:

Dual front airbags.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction control for improved stability.
Good crash test ratings by the safety authorities of that era.

Pricing and Variants

The 1999 Audi A4 Avant quattro started at a base price of around $28,000 USD. Within its category, it was relatively competitive, balancing performance with luxury, often compared to other premium European station wagons.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Impressive handling with quattro AWD.
Luxurious interior craftsmanship.
Fast and responsive manual transmission.
Strong safety attributes.
Attractive aesthetic appeal.

Cons

High fuel consumption.
Maintenance can be expensive.
Early technology features may seem outdated.
Limited rear legroom in today's standards.
Complex engine which can be costly to repair.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Owning an Audi comes with its own set of responsibilities. Annual maintenance could cost approximately $1,500 USD.

Oil leakage from the engine.
Suspension issues.
Timing belt wear over time.
Electrical glitches in infotainment systems.
Problems with fuel injectors.

Rating

Overall, the 1999 Audi A4 Avant quattro scores commendably. Here's a breakdown:

Design: 8/10
Comfort: 8/10
Performance: 9/10
Technology: 6/10
Safety: 8/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"This car excellently combines performance and practicality."
"I love the luxury feel inside despite its age."
"Handling remains stellar with the quattro feature."
"Fuel consumption can be heavy for daily commutes."
"Maintenance costs a bit high, but worth it for the drive quality."

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1999 Volvo V70 Wagon
1999 Saab 9-5 Wagon
1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon

Summary

The 1999 Audi A4 Avant quattro is ideal for those seeking a reliable, high-performance station wagon with classic luxury touches. While technology may have aged, its build quality and driving performance make it a desirable option in the used car market. This station wagon remains a testament to Audi's commitment to engineering excellence and presents great value for Audi enthusiasts.