akula-ssh

One could also supercharge the 2.8 to get high HP numbers: PES claims 295 at crank.

white a4

but the 2.8 engine cost more, the supercharge cost more, and the engine is heavier.

akula-ssh

I thought GT2X plus programming plus FMIC (or DSMIC) isn't cheap either? Plus, SC'ed 2.8 gives a flatter torque curve, thus different power delivery from the more high-strung 1.8T.

white a4

yeah, cheaper than a SC, but still expensive.

Stevelev

I had 2 B5's in my family. The 2.8 engine is smooth and quiet but is heavier in the front end. This ends up costing you in the handling department (not as nimble feeling) and the steering feels much heavier. The 1.8t is much more fun to drive (with a chip and exhaust) but perhaps will not be quite as refined.

I doubt getting much more than 200-210 WHP can be accomplished without a BT.

brettuzzi

The B5 was from 1996 to 2001.5 (2002 for the S4s).

The 1.8t engine was first available in 1997 (engine code: AEB) with 150hp and 162lb-ft, and underwent no major changed until MY 2000. In 2000, they changed the Drive-by-cable to Drive-by-wire (seen as a disadvantage to tuners), and the engine remained rated for 150hp. In 2001, the 1.8t received a small boost - the engine was left unmolested, but the stock tuning was upgraded to provide 170hp stock.

The 2.8 engine was available from the car's inception - if you see a 1996 A4 (recognized by the euro-plate trunk), it has the 2.8 unless an engine swap has been done. It was rated for 172hp, though output was bumped to 190 when they switched to 5valves/cylinder to match the 1.8t engine in 1998.


To anyone serious about tuning, the 1.8t is definately the engine of choice. With just a chip, you can bump output to 207hp / 232lb-ft - easily outpacing the 2.8. As someone mentioned, you can supercharge a 2.8 with the PES kit - though this is only available for the 30v model (2.8s from 1998 and newer). If you have a 12v 2.8, you're SOL for tuning options. Supercharging a 2.8 is expensive, and while you can do it, I'll always prefer a 1.8t. People have taken stock-internal 1.8ts to 450hp+, as the pistons and other assorted internals are forged, not cast.

Incidentally, the 1.8t engine shares distiction with Ferrari and Bugatti as being the only car maker using 5valves/cylinder. Audi claims an advantage, but no proof has been offered. It CAN enhance high-speed breathing, but of course, low-end torque can suffer without a countermeasure. F1 cars used to use 5v/c, but now switched to 4.

Two12V's

I like the 2.8 A4 not because i think its a better engine but overall a nicer car. Some of the little things really set it off for me when i bought it but are mainly taste related. For instance i like the chrome trim around the window and the interior woodgrain is classy touch on the inside. I have never had a 1.8 but i think they would be a much better drive for sure when tuned, but having no experience with it im not sure of the longevity of the engine over the long haul. I have 2 2.8's both older 12V's and all i can say is i have beaten the living crap out of one of them and this engine is a tank. I can say this with confidence only because of my 93 90 2.8, i do not care for this beast as i should and the engine has never waivered. Sure it takes 3-5 seconds to get going in it when i punch the accellerator, but when cruising the hwy on the daily commute she's quiet and has the power i need when i give'er. Nearing 300,000k and i have no doubts about reliability day to day.

spooling_at_23pounds

man...theres no comparasin between a 2.8 and a 1.8t chipped...if u want those fancy things like chrome trim and wood dash then sure go with the 2.8 but i would definately not base my big a$$ purchase on those type of looks. Im sure you can spend aorund 300$ and get urself a chrome trim kit and a wood dash for a 1.8t that will drive circles around the 2.8 with a stock appearance. Obviously you can supercharge a 2.8 but thats not at all the point. You buy a 1.8t and for under 400$ you can get an amazing chip that will add crazy amounts of power. If your going to supercharge a stock car i would buy a 2.8...sure its nice but you can spend a little extra dough and buy urself an s4 or an e36 m3.

A3A4Tom

2.8 is for those who are looking for V6 refinement, luxury and features. 1.8T is perfect for those who want to mod the forced induction engine with sporty aluminum trim interior.