1996 Audi A4 Trims and Specs

The 1996 Audi A4 was the replacement for the previous Audi 80/90, and the 2.8 Sedan was the front-wheel drive model in the two-car lineup. It came, appropriately enough, with a 2.8-liter, 172-hp V6 and 5-speed manual transmission. A 5-speed auto tran was optional.

Luxury and comfort are the Audi buzzwords for its sedans, and standard features on the 1996 A4 Sedan include cruise control, power driver's seat, power mirrors, windows, and locks, fog lights, air conditioning, automatic climate control, intermittent wipers, dual front airbags, and 4-wheel ABS. Options add on leather seats, a ski bag, sunroof, heated seats, and remote entry. Common problems with the 1996 Audi A4 Sedan include costly maintenance, electrical failures, not enough legroom in the backseat, and poorly designed cupholders. Owners seem to like the overall style, comfort, and road handling, feeling that the A4 is safe and solid.

Almost identical to the base 2.8 sedan, the 1996 Audi A4 2.8 quattro add a key ingredient -- quattro all-wheel drive. This Audi technology not only offers better handling and road grip, but it performs superior to most SUVs in snow and ice and off-road. It shares the same 2.8-liter, 172-hp V6 engine and standard 5-speed manual transmission. An optional 5-speed automatic is available.

Interior features are also of the same luxurious and high-end quality as the FWD sedan, though the 2.8 quattro includes a locking differential, a center console, and leather trim for the steering wheel. Power everything, cruise control, rear defogger, security system, air conditioning, and fog lights are all standard. Heated leather seats, a ski bag, and sunroof are options on the 1996 A4 2.8 quattro. Highlights for owners include the all-wheel drive capability, especially in the snow, handling and cornering that make for a run ride, and the list of standard features. Negatives are bad cupholders and lots of costly repairs.