2jzfanboy

I'm looking to buy a new(to me) car. Ive narrowed it down to an early 2000's Audi a4, s4, gs300, or a gs400. I've been searching and reading this forum for a few weeks now and I'm leaning toward a gs300. I love the fact that a 2jzgte swap(from what Ive read) is pretty simple, this would be my overall goal for the car. Unless I go with the 400 in which case I would just get rims, maybe lower it, and try to keep it clean looking. From what I've read the gs only comes in auto, which is kind of a downer, and if you do swap a stick there is no tasteful center console. (I could be wrong, I've been reading this and Audi forums for weeks now and my brain is mush)

Sorry, I'm rambling, but this is why I've posted. I love the entire interior but hate the gauges. Is there any aftermarket, or other stock guages that would fit? Thanks

Mike813

iTrader: (5)

if you are definite on getting a swap down the line the 300 is best for you. as all swapped cars or modified engines you might run into problems down the line if something is not done properly. a well maintained 400/430 will be reliable all around + the power of the v8 will keep a smile on anyones face.

there are a few members who has done custom center consoles with fiberglass so it can be done if youre willing to spend the $ or if you have the ability yourself.

i havent seen anyone with aftermarket gauges yet but they have done custom lighting/needles to enhance the look of the vehicle to their liking. check with some lighting vendors here if you need them to customize it for you.

oslouie

Having owned both (98' GS3 and 03' A4), I'd take the A4 for the nice interior and Quattro feature and that's about it. The GS3 has way more to offer and it's gonna be more reliable than any Audi. Audi's are known for electrical problems that can be hard to track down. I'm not saying that the Lexus will be problem free but I'd rather be replacing suspension parts than tearing out the interior to chase down broken/rusted wires. There was a time where my A4 wouldn't even start until I replaced all the broken vacuum lines and if you ever have to do the timing belt on an Audi, good luck because you're looking in the upwards of $800+ for labor. It requires a special Audi $1500 tool.

2jzfanboy

I'm leaning towards the gs400. I would love to swap a gte into a gs300 but it would be so far down the line I think I'm better off getting 400. I've heard the same about the audi having electrical problem. I'm not a mechanic but I know my way around a motor so I would be doing most work myself unless it was something I a was uncomfortable tackling. I would hate having to shell out 1500 for a special tool or paying 800 just in labor. Im seeing gs's online with 200,000 miles and still being reliable and that's awesome. I just don't feel like I would get that with an Audi.

oslouie

My hands are rather small. I can do things that others can't without having to take off a bunch of other crap but when I had to replace the coolant sensor on my A4, that took me 3 hours to do and it was only located under the intake manifold.

NEbiker10

iTrader: (1)

Just bought my gs400 today...unless you are reallly going to do a gte swap buy the 400.

dont even waste your time with Audi....




you WILL regret it

Mofoe

love my gs