C O V E R     S T O R Y

In Europe, the battle between BMW and Audi has been very fierce.  In fact, several European car critics consider these two manufacturers as direct rivals especially for their target audience of the young entrepreneur type.  However, these two manufacturers went their separate ways when dealing with how they should entertain this crowd.  BMW has went to the more traditional way by having rear wheel drive coupled with super-precise steering and sweet sounding normally aspirated engines.  On the other hand, Audi has taken the four-wheel drive approach and employing the use of turbo and five-valve per cylinder technology on their cars.  Having tested a BMW 328Ci a year back, it would be interesting to note who would win when the BMW takes on the Audi A4 1.8 Turbo Quattro. 

Before you start drooling and / or scratching your head when it comes to the availability of this car in the local market, I have to be honest to tell you that this car is an import.  Though the A4 variants available in the Philippine market are the 1.8-liter normally aspirated front wheel drive and 1.8-liter turbo front wheel drive only.  Both of these cars are good enough, but the 1.8-liter turbo Quattro is what really defines an A4.  The test unit comes straight from California, USA and thus has a standard a 5-speed automatic transmission plus graphite-finished interior and sunroof. 

Upon gazing at the Audi, the car is a wonderful blend of German conservatism and advanced engineering.  The clean lines of the A4 though not as distinct as the BMW 3-series still have a great sense of style in them.  In fact, though the car design is actually a bit more than 4 years old, the design is a classic to behold and the lines don’t give you the idea that this car is already due for a change.  The A4’s austere design is further complimented by the headlamp and tail lamp treatment.  The test unit in the A4’s best color, silver, is a wonder to behold, easily thrashing the BMW 3-series in exterior design, fit and finish.  The 15-inch mags are also a wonder, the design actually derived from the Audi Avus show car a few years back, actually complement the car quite nicely.  Nice details abound the car especially with regards to its hood latch, which is cleverly hidden between the Audi rings logo.

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