76 Votes

Nice as Nice Can Be, But Is The Audi A5 Really Worth $50k?

Agent009 submitted on 5/20/2008 Official Bell & Ross Timestamp: 1:03:38 PM

147 user comments | Category: Reviews | Source: | SOURCE: www.thetruthaboutcars.com

"Nice Audi.

" Every time I rolled up in the glossy red A5, I heard the same refrain. Young, old, rich, poor– if the onlooker had a tongue, they wagged it at me and my Audi. And there you have it. The people have spoken. I find this curious for two reasons. First, das volk haven't driven it. Second, the A5 is a two-door variant of the new A4. Has anyone other than a nurse or desperate housewife looked at an A4 and exclaimed, "Nice Audi?" Perhaps so, but the ad hoc A5 admiration society still raises an important question: is it a nice Audi?

It sure it is gorgeous. I understand Audi's decision to graft goatees onto the front of their cars– the big mouth bass look differentiates their vehicles from Bimmers– but that doesn't mean I've ever liked it. Until the A5. Fine, the corporate snout looks pretty slick on the A8, too. But the A5's gaping maw is, finally, perfectly balanced with the flanking headlights and air intakes. It's also the coupe's least sexy bit. The tail is double-take eye candy, with muscular haunches that [should] haunt Jag designer's dreams.

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Nice as Nice Can Be, But Is The Audi A5 Really Worth $50k?

About the Author

"If everything seems under control, you're just not going fast enough."
— Agent009 (View Profile)

User Comments

In black, yes.
— answer (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 1:34:07 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 12

saw black one today on the road...my jaw dropped! Even my sis who's not into cars goes "wow that looks niceee!"
— SHOWTIME (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 2:05:31 PM | | Votes: 12

Looks like junior won't be gettin' an Audi :-D
— EL34 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 3:32:50 PM | | Votes: 1

In pearl white paint....yes~~
— hao420 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 6:42:49 PM | | Votes: 4

Not worth it. I'm going for a Passat which has almost all the creature comforts I had in a leased A6 Quattro I just turned in.
— EnnNorak (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 10:07:42 PM | | Votes: -10

Why not? It's at least as nice an an E class MB.
— 993Turbo (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 6:48:21 AM | | Votes: -1

looks like every other audi to me
— lexusrox123 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 1:35:37 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: -6

Isn't it funny how the LS460 looks just like the RX350 :-?
— EL34 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 3:34:11 PM | | Votes: -4

yeah but every single audi look the same...not good
— mclaren428 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 3:48:01 PM | | Votes: 4

"Isn't it funny how the LS460 looks just like the RX350"

Yeah, if I were on acid.

Didn't "one sausage, different sizes" used to be applied to MB and BMW?
— _43LE (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 4:28:41 PM | | Votes: 4

I see what u said EL34,MB SLR look just like SLK.....
— hao420 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 6:45:02 PM | | Votes: -1

no actually the SLK front end looks like the SLR, and ITS SUPPOSED TO FOR THE RECORD.......
— bmwdrvr (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 8:36:49 PM | | Votes: 8

The grill treatment is obviously the same, but it looks far more athletic than the A4 or A6 in my opinion. Plus when you see it in black with LED's on coming towards you, it really is time to whip out the kleenex...
— Kinger (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 8:53:21 AM | | Votes: 5

It's too bad the 335XI can't be had with the sport suspension like the 335I....speaking of which, does anyone happen to know why that is exactly?
— Bmw8ter (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 4:10:10 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1

The sports package comes with bigger brakes which won't go behind the xi's 17" wheels.

It probably has something to do with the front driveshafts as well.

— lewishamiltonpimp (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 4:14:12 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1

xDrive, they're right. While the 335i Coupe comes standard with the sport suspension, getting the 335xi Coupe (regardless of whether you get the sport package or not) actually drops the sport suspension and gets you the standard suspension, same as the 335xi sedan. I don't know why they do that, I guess because they figure if you want sport you'll get the rear drive version. Now that the X3, X5, and (especially) X6 are showcasing what they can do with all-wheel drive, however, my guess is over the next couple of years as AWD becomes more and more common BMW will stop doing that and start allowing you to get the sport suspension. At least I hope they do. A 335xi with sport suspension and DPC torque vectoring would be a badass machine, especially if they wise up and finally offer xi's with the Performance Package as well.
— JRobUSC (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 5:14:31 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 3

xdrive

not sure about what happens in USA, but i thought the M sports Package comes with 18/19 inch wheels and a lowered suspension.
is the standard 335i in America already has a lower suspension??
— dayday (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 3:53:20 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 0

absoultly not and here are the reasons why. 1 go to an audi dealership and they think they have the best thing since the car was invented. 2 I wanted an s5 went to audi the following happened. 1 58800 to buy lease over 1000 a month a5 52800 to buy almost 800 to lease and thats if you can find an 08. 09 price going up from 3 to 5 % due to low dollar. 3 S5 14 miles to the gallon. 4 bmw 335xi 52k saves 7k same performance as S5 at A5 price. With the change add dinan package for 1500 get your 335 to 384 hp it doesnt void the warrentee cause it comes from bmw. Finally no maintenance on bmw But if its sheer looks you want i guess pay the xtra cause the A/S5 may be the nicest car out under 70k
— markanthony0419 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 2:08:49 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 8

If you drive an S5 you don't care about fuel economy.
— Heyhuub (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 5:00:09 PM | | Votes: 7

your right you would have to be an idiot to buy one what with a 7.0 liter 500hp Z06 getting better fuel economy than the 4.2 liter 350 hp S5....its funny it takes 8 cyliners and 50 more horses not to mention a gas guzzler for Audi to make a coupe that can keep pace with the 335xi
— bmwdrvr (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 8:44:24 PM | | Votes: -2

Not sure I agree with the notion that the buyer of a $60k car doesn't care about gas mileage.

You may not care about gas mileage but everyone I work with that has a car cares about gas mileage. And not one of us has a car under $60k.
— vman1013 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 9:23:45 PM | | Votes: 0

boohoo, you wanted something that you can't afford. like that never happened to nobody.
Oh, BTW, in life you get what you pay for!
I guess you can make your own conclusion.
— 1evlaudi (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 11:28:58 PM | | Votes: 3

if everyone from toyota to bentley, and ferrari are finding ways to save fuel economy people that can afford whatever they want care about fuel economy........this isnt the 70's. Its not about what you can afford its about social responsibility......i think a 100,000 "supposedly green" LS600h that is selling well proves that people with money care about fuel economy because of social responsibility not because they cant afford it....what a idiots argument... i can afford to waste gas so im going to....
— bmwdrvr (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 9:35:10 AM | | Votes: 1

almost forgot 335xi with the dinan software gets your 335 faster then the new m3 and you have awd
— markanthony0419 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 2:10:16 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 6

oh, almost forgot, an A5/S5 with a MTM supercharger will blow the doors off your BMW. Your point being?
— 1evlaudi (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 1:10:13 AM | | Votes: -2

No, it's not worth it ... u can't spin the inside wheel when turning&accelerating @ the same time. I'd rather drive the Hardtop Conv. SC 430 which is almost 10yrs old and had a better sound system too.
— StickShiftCamry (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 2:11:53 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: -18

when i see your username I understand your comments....jeez...

Yes it is worth every penny!
It is far more superior and larger than the more expensive CLK, and the A5 is actually priced as a 328i coupe almost option to option with the A5 having more power than the 328.
People tend to forget that!
I really like the 3 series coupe, but there is just something about that A5 that sets it appart.
Plus the A5 will not be at all street corners because of availibility.
And the A5 will have very good resale value because of that but also Audi's resale has been on the rise for the past 2 years.
— AlexTx (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 2:20:19 PM | | Votes: -1

actually, id take the a5 over any ten year old car, with a few exceptions. (aston martin, rolls, etc.)
— lexusrox123 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 5:45:22 PM | | Votes: 6

That makes me feel special "when i see your username I understand your comments", wierdo, for the record I have an '06 BMW and a CX-7 - wierdo.
— StickShiftCamry (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 1:35:27 AM | | Votes: -5

alex.

the A5 is priced the same as a 335i, not the 328i. and the 335i is a plainly superior car.
— enthusiastx11 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 10:02:36 AM | | Votes: 3

not from the drivers seat, you'll be having flashbacks of the 80's with that 1980 interior :)
— sector (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 9:10:44 PM | | Votes: 0

when you shell out 50k+ for your a5 and get smoked by some kid in a honda accord let me know how great a sports car you have.
— markanthony0419 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 2:28:27 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: -4

its not a sports car, to begin with.
— 1995e34 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 2:36:33 PM | | Votes: 6

Or My '00 Camry V6 5 Speed Manual - I'll smoke that A5 boi.
— StickShiftCamry (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 1:37:27 AM | | Votes: -3

enthusiast: Price one online and you will see with the price of the options on the Beemer, they are about the same price. The only way the A5 is more is if you opt for the S-Line package.
I priced them many times.
TO stick shift: O.K.. weirdo... you drive a beemer... so what? Am I supposed to be impressed?
Reading your comment, you look like another Amazingidiotbeemer that likes to bash Audi for no reason.
— AlexTx (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 10:06:24 AM | | Votes: 2

335i or g37 over the A5. im young so i need the performance.
— KZ258 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 2:29:05 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 5

G37 = Altima coupe....can't tell the difference, oh yeah except the 15,000 dollar price.
— Dutchman (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 5:13:05 PM | | Votes: 1

youre young so get a honda like most of the posters on this site..................
— 4x4rules (View Profile)

Posted on 5/22/2008 3:52:15 PM | | Votes: 1

its not the best, but its good to finally see audi making coupes.
— 1995e34 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 2:45:32 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 9

I have an S5, and I must say that it is one of the prettiest cars on the road... However, as far as driving is concerned, the 335 is still far ahead
— Shahan (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 3:37:25 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 11

it's gorgeous, but for that kind of money i want something more powerful underneath the hood
— carchick (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 3:37:32 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 4

quick question, did you drive the A5 with the 3.2?
— 1evlaudi (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 1:08:22 AM | | Votes: 1

I love the looks of this car, but wish it had a better engine than the 3.2

In my opinion, when you option up an A5, you're already right at the price of an S5 which is a much more unique car that has an engine befitting a true luxury sports coupe.

My take, skip the A5, just pony up a couple grand to hop into the S5.

But yes, when I see this car on the road, my draw drops, and usually the driver of the Audi glares at me admirably and vice versa.

The 335i Coupe and S5 coupe are two of the most beautiful cars on the road today.
— Chip (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 3:51:42 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 10

I agree 100%!
— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 3:59:09 PM | | Votes: 5

but the 335 is at every street corner with a 16 years old blonde princess behind the wheel. Fantastic, the definition of the Ultimate princess machine.
— 1evlaudi (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 8:16:50 PM | | Votes: -2

you must not have seen any A4 convertibles running around because I can tell you whos driving those...and the tt, and the a3, and the a4....there is 4 good cars to recommend for your little princess
— bmwdrvr (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 8:45:55 PM | | Votes: 3

i hardly ever see a 335i. i see many awd 3 series, but none with 16 year olds hot chicks behind the wheel.
— 1995e34 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 10:09:04 PM | | Votes: 2

quick question? have you driven the A5?
— 1evlaudi (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 1:09:03 AM | | Votes: 1

At $50K I would much rather have a base S5 or a decently-equipped 335xi coupe. It's really time for Audi to dump this boring V6!
— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 3:53:16 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 8

is mpg the most important thing you simply cant live with in your car?
— Audi4Life (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 5:30:07 PM | | Votes: 3

When I have a coupe that does 0-60mph in 4.5 sec, I honestly don't care whether it gets 5MPG or 50MPG. Sunroofs don't make a difference to me either--they add weight and restrict headroom. Unless it's mandatory, I just wouldn't get it.

— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 5:50:59 PM | | Votes: 4

But the A5's glass roof is just as heavy as a steel roof. If not heavier. The A5 is a heavy car. You cant blame it all on the AWD system.
— LexSucks (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 6:29:50 PM | | Votes: -7

I don't know if you didn't read my comment correctly or just decided to put something random there, LexSucks.
— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 8:22:53 PM | | Votes: 3

well if you would take such a gas guzzler why not get an old 70's , muscle car, back when technology and performance wasnt important......i think whether you care about gas mileage or not, a car should be able to return a decent epa rating in 2008 and get good performance....look at a corvette, bmw 335i, G37, if they can do it why cant Audi...do they not have the know how.....
— bmwdrvr (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 8:48:51 PM | | Votes: 3

I couldn't care a rats ass about the gas milage, if overhere in europe you drive a V8 powered car, especially one as good looking as the S5 you don't give a damn about milage.
— Heyhuub (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 2:25:28 AM | | Votes: 2

the perfect explanation as to why people drive hummer h2's
— bmwdrvr (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 9:32:04 AM | | Votes: 2

Hell no it isn't worth $50K. There isn't any other sports-coupe that charges so much money for so little HP (relativity). You guys realize that a 2005 Honda Accord Coupe can out accelerate the Audi A5?
— LexSucks (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 4:11:46 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: -4

so i guess you would buy the honda then...
— Audi4Life (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 5:27:37 PM | | Votes: 6

But it can't. The 2005 Honda Accord coupe had 240hp and got from 0-60 in 7 seconds on a good day. The A5 does roughly 5.7 seconds.
— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 5:51:51 PM | | Votes: 5

I meant 06. Which has more power. It's more like 5.9 for the V6. And I've never seen an A5 test were it did better than 6.3.

Honda Info:
Horsepower : 240 hp @ 6250 rpm('03-'05), 244 hp('06)
Torque : 212 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm('03-'05), 211 lb-ft('06)
Redline : 6750 rpm

Top speed : 130 mph(electronicallly limited)
0-60 mph : 5.9 sec.(manual), 6.9 sec.(auto)
0-¼ mile : 14.5 sec @ 98.0 mph('03 manual)

Sorry but if the A5 can't best a 2 year-old Run-of-the-mill Coupe, then the A5 is hurting. Which it is (performance wise). The Standard A5 reminds me of a German version of the Toyota Solara. The Audi A5 looks faster than they actually are, which is the definition of poser car
— LexSucks (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 6:25:37 PM | | Votes: -5

blablablabla
— 1evlaudi (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 8:03:00 PM | | Votes: 2

"And I've never seen an A5 test were it did better than 6.3."

When have you even seen a test of a standard A5 in the US? It isn't available here yet. The ones you might have seen have been Euro publications where it's 0-100km/h, not to mention that is AUDI'S FACTORY TIME in Europe. Audi's factory times are always off by a half second. Like I was saying...
— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 8:19:44 PM | | Votes: 2

I LOVE the A5 but want a fully loaded one (50k) with the S4 engine...

Although, you can't get a fully loaded 328xi coupe for less than $45k. The 330xi coupe is def over 50k.
— M35MT (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 5:01:38 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 3

In the Chicago area, folks are apparently snapping them up. A5s are very scarse, and at a large Audi dealer in the area, they are supposedly sold out into sometime in 2009( I was surprised to hear that). I havn't seen any on the roads yet, even in the car-crazy north shore area, where you pretty much see it all on a daily basis (However, I've seen two S5s... they are stunning in dark metallic colors!). The A5 trumps an equivalently optioned CLK, but IMHO, the 335xi coupe is the best buy between the three cars.
— cybernetck (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 5:10:10 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 2

I live on the north shore and I've seen quite a few S5s, although only a couple A5s.
— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 5:52:36 PM | | Votes: 1

all A5/S5 around Chicago are pretty much sold out in less than 24h from their show at the dealership.

so the car is a success for Audi, definetely, no matter if people complain about the price/mpg/etc, it's selling really good.
— rg12345 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 8:57:40 PM | | Votes: 1

I had a chance to drive the dark grey S5 with red interior at McGrath on Waukegan while it was there. It was hard to get back into the EVO!
— Jaybrn (View Profile)

Posted on 5/22/2008 7:01:43 PM | | Votes: 1

Seen a couple, those LED lights is what makes the car looks so fierce. I would have a tough choice between the A5 and the 335. But, I would lean towards the 335, more for the money.
— no1listensanyway (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 5:47:11 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 0

I saw one in person and it's a nice looking car. Audi has a positive thing going right now, not like BMW who seems to have some kind of identity problem with design and lost sense of direction....
— simmonsdp (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 6:02:08 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 2

It's obvious Audi thinks it is worth. I'd suggest spending the extra coin and get the S5 instead of the A5. That would be worth it!
— irie77 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 6:26:40 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 4

*Audi thinks it is worth it and it appears that folks believe that it is as well. They're getting folks to pay for it.
— irie77 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 6:30:09 PM | | Votes: 4

Thanks 009 for posting this article , I keep asking myself that question all the time when I see an A5. The things is , the a5 is a really beautiful car and the pictures do not do it justice( still looks good in pictures by the way). I believe that this car shows how much money you spent on it. So if you spent 50,000 dollars on it then that is not a problem. unlike a 335i which I also like isnt really designed as well as the a5. Price for its power is the only thing that pisses me off.
— M3owns (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 6:37:05 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 6

for the a5 power because its under powered compared to a 335i.
— M3owns (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 6:38:13 PM | | Votes: 4

BMW's 328 and 335 and the Infinti G37 are better than the Audi A5
— Larry (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 6:57:27 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 0

The Audi A5 is a nice design, but for 50K Front wheel drive??? I would bet that the 328i 230 HP is faster than the 265 HP Audi.
— Larry (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 7:01:09 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: -3

Larry: the A5 only comes with Quattro. Get your information correct, and no, the 328 is not faster than the A5.
— AlexTx (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 7:05:24 PM | | Votes: 3

haters, haters and more haters; ignorant, uninformed, so called car enthusiasts that don't know nothing, and for the little they know, are completely blinded by some fanboism ( I know its not really a word).
Word of advice, if you like a particular brand, why don't you stick with the thread related to those brands, and should you want to venture to threads regarding other brands, why don't you try to make intelligent and constructive comments.
— 1evlaudi (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 8:08:53 PM | | Votes: 3

Actually a manual 328 would be the same(if not a tad faster)than a manual A5. Auto A5 would be faster than an auto 328.

I think the S5 looks great but the A5 is a bit too soft. It's more of a cruiser than a sports coupe.
— gasguzzler (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 8:20:43 PM | | Votes: 2

The 328xi CANNOT keep up with an A5.
— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 8:20:45 PM | | Votes: -2

actually your WRONG, the A5 is a FRONT WHEEL DRIVE car in America they made it only all wheel drive. in other places it is offered in front wheel drive.......secondly the 328i could keep pace with the A5, not to mention out handle it...the A5 isnt a sports coupe not even remotely its styling saids typical sports coupe.....its handling saids typical Buick. It really is a confused car, the cheap looking high gloss wood, the fake leather door panels, the brightwork on the dash and its poor ride quality with handling that fits a 95 park avenue, and i think you have a car that is a disaster. The 328xi is certainly a much more balanced, better car overall, and focused vehicle as the A5 doesnt seem to know what it wants to be. Not to mention in other countries where it is front wheel drive, the rear wheel drive 328xi makes much better companion
— bmwdrvr (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 8:42:01 PM | | Votes: -3

"actually your WRONG, the A5 is a FRONT WHEEL DRIVE car in America they made it only all wheel drive. in other places it is offered in front wheel drive..."

WELL WE WEREN'T TALKING ABOUT OTHER PLACES WERE WE???

If we were, we wouldn't be talking about a BMW 328. The A5 competes with the EUROPEAN BMW 330i COUPE.

"secondly the 328i could keep pace with the A5"

I'm waiting for you to actually back this up. You can say that but I won't believe you until it's proven.

The rest of your post is retardedly biased and should be disregarded.
— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 11:07:35 PM | | Votes: 0

oh god....more comments from the great misinformed....vw biased S4 how pitiful.....ill take your worthless challenge nevertheless and prove that its not just me that thinks the A5 isnt a sports coupe at all but a poser.....any mag in the US that has reviewed has said its not a sports coupe, and has trashed its overly light steering(ever heard that complaint about any car hmmm es330, buick, cadillac dts.....sports coupe no)
— bmwdrvr (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 12:26:28 AM | | Votes: 0

"The 328xi CANNOT keep up with an A5."

I was talking about RWD 328i not AWD 328xi. The weight penalty/distribution of an AWD is too much for a sub-300hp 3500lb+ car...which is why I say A5 is more of a tourer than a sport performance coupe. Same goes for 328xi.
— gasguzzler (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 1:56:03 AM | | Votes: 1

wrong.....the 328xi is faster than the 328i as the 335xi is faster than the 335i....not to mention all wheel drive or not a BMW still remains its characteristic best in class, benchmark, handling dynamics, it doesnt turn into a overly light car just because of all wheel drive....
— bmwdrvr (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 9:37:06 AM | | Votes: -3

Sorry buddy but 328xi is not faster than the 328i. 328xi weighs 230lbs more and is slower to 60 by .6 seconds. Also why would AWD turn the bimmer into an "overly light car"? It's the opposite, hence the weight and distribution penalty. I'm not saying it doesn't handle well, but AWD does come with SOME penalty.
— gasguzzler (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 11:44:49 AM | | Votes: 2

Worth it for 40K...
— hao420 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 7:15:58 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 2

keep smoking that 420 man!

— 1evlaudi (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 8:15:26 PM | | Votes: -1

BTW, agent 009
thanks again for posting an article which you know will start a flame war. Good job!
And it is clear, reading the TAC article, that that guys has absolutely no idea what he is talking about, not counting that unless you are a moron and get your A/S5 from a broker, a dedicated Audi brand specialist will show you how to navigate the MMi and the A/C controls.
I have long learn that journalism in this country is not about facts but personal opinions, but I can not respect a guy writing that he doesn't like the wheel design on "a specific car", how is that relevant to anything regarding that vehicle? And who cares that he doesn't like the wheels?
Who cares if the car is slow or fast from 0to60 than a BMW or a Honda, it's a coupe, its purpose is to generate emotions (for the buyer, not for the ignorant punk that can't afford it-well even for them-) and generate traffic to Audi showrooms.
If any of you on this thread don't get that, then I am sorry for you.
— 1evlaudi (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 8:25:56 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 3

bmwprincessdrvr

you are the epitome of a blind ignorant fanboy that exercises poor uneducated judgement and makes blind ignorant comments out of thin air.
There must be a better way to express your opinion than just bash the competing product and tell the World that your favorite brand is the best.
I am sorry for you, your friends(if you have any) and your family and I will forgive you if you are a 12 years old child.
— 1evlaudi (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 8:52:44 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1

you must be psycho......you know we are talking about cars right???? save the personal insults for the middle school playground only children are so hurt by others opinions that they have to result to such foolishness.......the a4, tt, and certainly the a4 cabriolet thats i see are mostly driven by women, the tt is a college girls car like i said, and the a4 convertible is most certainly one.....thats my opinion thats what I see whenever I see one....deal with it
— bmwdrvr (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 12:29:50 AM | | Votes: -1

Yes, if you have money buy it if it appeals to you, if you don't have the money tough, a car company is a buisness and they have to make money. Audi isn't Oprah and giving cars out for free. I would be laughing if i could pick up an A5 for 50k here in Aus 50k would get an A3 or base A4. Stop complaining
— DasAuto (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 9:04:53 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 3

bmwdrvr

oh!!! did I hurt your feelings? too bad!

BMW are completely over rated, and you completely missed my point, if a BMW "is the ultimate driving machine", then why is it that 90% of the time when I see the driver of a 3 series, it is a woman...? Same goes with X3. X5, and 7 series and Z4. It seems, only the 5 series is driven by men.??
I have absolutely no problem with A4, A3 and TT being driven by women, those are safe, fuel efficient vehicles and Audi does not pretend to have the ultimate driving machine. And I doubt that all those women driving BMW's are driving them to the track, even if that would be a cool thing that I am not opposed to.

BMW reliability is becoming more and more questionable, the fit and finish is average at best, check out the X6 as an example. The design, even if a subjective matter, is a subject of controversy to say the least. The lease programs have cost millions of dollars to BMW, the used car values are dropping like stone. BMW has nothing to do with the "ultimate driving machine" anymore, it is selling a badge for "faux-bourgeois", "nouveaux-riches", snob and princesses.
It is a disgrace to the origins of this once great manufacturer.
Even the new M3, despite being a great performer, has become too polished and civilized, which makes a car like the RS4, even being an older platform and a bit more raw, a better, more rewarding car to drive, because it demands your attention and you need to work it.

SO! now Mr. Bmwdrvr, we are talking about cars, do you know what you are talking about?
— 1evlaudi (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 12:53:27 AM | | Votes: -2

lets check reliability reports for AUDI, remember the 2.7twin turbo, or the 1.8 turbo awful engines, not to mention Audi cant build a reliable V8........an Audi has never graced any reliability list.......oh and by the way which out of the 3 german luxury brands didnt even make the top 10 list for residual values because it is way to low to even be ranked....AUDI....with poor sales in the US, and best sellers from BMW, and Mercedes despite their thousands of dollar price difference between their japanese competition.....the problem with AUDI is they are illogical choice, why anyone want such a bland car, that is an illogical choice...........is AUDI getting better? yes, the A4 shows that, the fact they have an A5 to complain about poor its performance is proof, but they are not there yet, maybe one day in the future......but right now they have way to many negatives than positives...unlike many other luxury cars that are top of the class namely Lexus, Infiniti, BMW, and Mercedes
— bmwdrvr (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 9:43:55 AM | | Votes: 0

"lets check reliability reports for AUDI, remember the 2.7twin turbo, or the 1.8 turbo awful engines, not to mention Audi cant build a reliable V8..."

LMAO, let's see, I have owned ALL THREE of those engines. '00 A6 2.7T quattro, bought my son a '98 A4 1.8T quattro and now I have the S4. NONE OF THEM EVER HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE ENGINE. In fact, the only problems I've ever had with them were the headlight washer caps popping off the A6 a couple times and an oil leak with the A4.

I'm sorry, but simply look it up. Audi is AHEAD OF BMW in virtually every reliability publication. But it's pretty obvious that very few cars are actually unreliable these days. I would feel comfortable owning either.
— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)

Posted on 5/22/2008 10:56:14 PM | | Votes: 1

The A/S5 both share with the g37 the title of most overrated coupes on the road. Good looking without a doubt, but hardly gorgeous.

And I just cant imagine paying $50k for what is now an average amount of HP, when for the same money I could
have the highly-tuneable, brilliant handling 335 coupe.
— tattedtwice (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 9:11:41 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: -1

everyone talks about performance like 90% of buyers are enthusiasts...real world most BMW drivers don't know their car is RWD. They just buy it and then get the nice shiny "BMW" license plate frame to make sure everyone knows it, because the BMW badge right above it isn't clear enough.
— aarononymous (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 9:28:19 PM | | Votes: 1

"Good looking without a doubt, but hardly gorgeous."

You haven't seen one.
— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 11:08:30 PM | | Votes: -1

yet the 3 series and 5 series here in the us are the best selling cars in their class i think performance is certainly an importance to alot of people.......maybe when AUDI gets the performance, epa ratings, poor reliability and horrible depreciation under control they will appeal to more buyers
— bmwdrvr (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 12:32:16 AM | | Votes: 3

Funny then that here in Europe the only BMW's that can keep up with their competetive Audi's sales wise are the 3 series and the X5. Even the 5-series can't keep up with the sales of the A6. Not to mention the new A4 is hardly even out yet.
— Heyhuub (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 2:32:17 AM | | Votes: 2

LOL! HELL NO this Audi is **NOT** worth FIFTY thousand dollars! Audi has screwed up BIG TIME with the pricing on this. NOBODY is buying it! Here in Scottsdale, I've barely seen TWO.

For starters, there's a nicely equipped Porsche Cayman just waiting for somebody ready to spend that kind of money.
— randy33 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 9:47:39 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1

well, like we don't have enough of the "larry's" and Bmwprincessdrvr, now comes randy33, who knows everything.
Huh! dude! you barely see them because there are barely any available, the luckiest dealer will receive maybe 4-5 A5 tops per month, S5 are not even at 1 per month per dealer. So if you don't know what you are talking about, shut up !!!
BTW, people are paying $5K to $10K over for those cars every time there is one available, so that solves the argument of HOW MUCH THAT CAR IS WORTH; IT IS WORTH MRE THAN WHAT AUDI IS ASKING FOR.
At my dealership, where we also have Porsche and BMW, people looked at the S%, with a $10K mark-up and say "well $68K is not that expensive".
The proof is in the public opinion and response to the product, not some dumb journalist or some badge fanboy that doesn't black from white.
— 1evlaudi (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 10:48:44 PM | | Votes: 4

"For starters, there's a nicely equipped Porsche Cayman just waiting for somebody ready to spend that kind of money."

Oh, you mean a Porsche Cayman with no alarm, no power seats, no leather, no xenons, 17" wheels and a crappy stereo?

Couldn't the same thing be said about a $50K BMW coupe?
— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 11:09:59 PM | | Votes: 4

Alarm? What car has alarms these days?
— StickShiftCamry (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 12:47:32 AM | | Votes: -1

+1 S4cab

a base Cayman is about $58K and you don't get much besides the driver pleasure, but I didn't know that the "5" was in the same segment as the cayman...
Which proves randy33 is an imbecile
— 1evlaudi (View Profile)

Posted on 5/20/2008 11:21:40 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 3

Yes. My friend who traded an A6 in for an A5 couldn't believe how good it was. He says it was the best car he has ever driven (and he has driven some good ones) and definitely worth the price.

I think it is worth that price, however only just. I wouldn't buy it for any more (i'd probably wait one year for a used one to come out)
— nine (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 4:43:21 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 2

No where near worth this price, as with most Audi's they are based on Skoda's & Volkswagens(poor mans cars)!!!

They all look the same aswell...

— ubercool (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 5:58:41 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 0

imbecile
— 1evlaudi (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 10:05:06 AM | | Votes: 0

Seeing that for 56K u can get M3, C63 and ISF, i think A5 is not worth 50K at all. 40K max.

btw S5(not A5) looks good no doubt. Especially in Red. A5 looks a bit dull.

JUGNU
— JUGNU (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 6:09:00 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: -2

another imbecile
— 1evlaudi (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 10:06:14 AM | | Votes: 1

When Audi came up with their corporate grill the idea was really nice. Sporty and Fiece looks was just what they needed to transform their image.
But then, all models started looking the same and it got kinda boring. The new A4 and A5 look exactly the same from the front and rear which is not a very smart idea. At least BMW's 3 coupe is totally different from the sedan since they appeal to different buyers.
Also, the BMW 3 coupe looks less bloated than the A5 yet is actually more spacious in the rear (normal adults in the BMW vs kids/dogs in the A5).
One smart thing from Audi would have been to actually price the A5 lesser than an equivalent BMW 3 coupe to attract potential buyers...but they didnt!!
One more warning, dont be surprised if you buy your A5 now and then Audi decides to come up with a new one in 3 years!!
— mojo81 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 9:02:15 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1

"The new A4 and A5 look exactly the same from the front and rear which is not a very smart idea. At least BMW's 3 coupe is totally different from the sedan since they appeal to different buyers."

You must be kidding.

To me, the A4 and A5 look just as different from one another as the two 3 Series models. I don't understand where you draw that conclusion. The A5 doesn't have a single body panel in common with the A4, and it looks it; have you seen either of them? Obviously not the A4, but the A5?
— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 7:17:40 PM | | Votes: 2

"Same headlight/taillight design..IDENTICAL."

Come ON.

You know they're not IDENTICAL. The A4's headlamps have the curved shape, similar to the current model but sharper. The A5's are square. At the rear, the difference is more subtle, but it's definitely there; the taillamps are also different. I don't know if you actually think they are identical, but they're not. Do you wear glasses? And no, I'm not asking to be a smart ass--do you?
— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)

Posted on 5/22/2008 10:52:24 PM | | Votes: 1

The reason you dont see these cars here in america is not cause there is super demand for them its because audi is not sending them here. They are sending them to china and india where they can actually turn a profit because of the low dollar. 2009 prices are going up 3-5%. If they sent them here you could get them its not because there are all these people after them they are keeping the supply down on purpose.
— markanthony0419 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 9:24:44 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 2

im not saying they arent selling. they are selling the ones they have. i am saying audi isnt sending that many to the US. The quanity they have or had yes are sold out. The question is is it because of super demand or just not that many cars
— markanthony0419 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 9:46:22 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 3

it's a beautiful car, but...

for $50k you can get a loaded 335i. and there's simply no comparison between the performance of these two cars.

for the money, i'd stick with my 335i.
— enthusiastx11 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 9:59:28 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1

good for you, let me know when your first direct injection pump fails
— 1evlaudi (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 10:07:13 AM | | Votes: 0

For $50K you can also get a base S5. So I wouldn't buy an A5 3.2 under any circumstances.
— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 7:15:57 PM | | Votes: 1

and yet another imbecile, you must be bmwdrvr boyfriend
— 1evlaudi (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 10:08:12 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1

Oh really?
Then tell me which VW is the same as the A5????
Oh yeah that's right.... there is not....

To stickshift: All cars have alaem, except BMW that charges you for it on the 3 series!! What the hell is that all about?????

To Mojo: and you base the fact that Audi will change the A5 in 3 years on what????
— AlexTx (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 10:20:20 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 2

i have a 335xi and i would get the s5 over it if the lease were better.
i wouldnt get the a5 over the 335xi though.
i get 13mpg but i drive kinda hard.
i think s5 is hot ( just wish it didnt cost so damn much)
— iamdabest1 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 10:59:00 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 2

I think that the S5 is one of the most beautiful cars I have seen in many years. The interior is top shelf but the price is just way too much. Sorry but they want over 1,000 a month on a lease on a car that stickers similar to my Infiniti M45 sport and I am paying 25% less. I can't justify the premium at this time. I love it but when it is hot the stealerships will price what the market will pay. I can only hope that the prices come back down to earth because I want a S5 real bad!!
— drakarula (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 12:38:47 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 4

Nice car, but not worth the money. I would take the G37 in a heartbeat. It is faster and in my opinion looks way better and more aggressive.
— PerformanceGuy (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 1:14:02 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1

With the exception of the R8, the S5 is the best looking car in the Audi lineup.

It may be the best looking coupe in the $50K range.

The LED daytime running lights at the front is an incredibly nice touch.

IMO, great looks justify the price.

— weaponX (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 2:56:29 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 3

I completely agree, why do you think people buy Aston Martins? Not because they drive better than Porsches. They don't. This is the same thing.
— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 7:14:28 PM | | Votes: 2

I am too tall to fit into either the A5/S5 or the 328/335 coupes, so I have no dog in this fight. Let me interject some objectivity into this flame war.

True, the 328xi is cheaper than the A5, & offers free maintenance during the warranty period. However, the A5 is better equipped than the the 328xi. By the time you equip the BMW to the same level as the Audi, and add a few options (automatic gearbox, navigation, premium audio system, and rear parking asist) the A5 is only $520 more expensive (MSRP prices).

While there is nothing wrong with the BMW's looks, the Audi wins the beauty contest.

As for performance, the Audi A5 would probably have a slight acceleration advantage due to its higher torque & lower lb/hp ratio. The Audi also has better gas mileage.

A sport suspension is included in the A5's S-line package, and is not available at all on the 328xi. One can order 19" staggered wheels and tires with the "Sport Package" available on the BMW, but you still are stuck with the stock suspension. Thus I suspect the Audi will corner a little better than the BMW.
— Audiphile (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 3:27:53 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 2

Decide what is most important to you, and choose between these two fine cars. You won't go wrong with either one.

However, once one equips the cars similarly, the BMW 335i and the Audi S5 cost only $5,000 or so more than their respective lower-priced sisters. I would recommend coughing up the extra five grand and get yourself a true high-performance sport coupe - either the Audi S5 or the BMW 335i.
— Audiphile (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 3:35:48 PM | | Votes: 2

imo, audi and aston are leading the way in design for the next generation of automobiles.

a new audi on the road in the evening looks like a little club-on-the-go. the r8 and a5 just speak fashion much like the upper echelon astons.

bmw angel eyes and altima styled rear lamps are out; audi led is in.
— minimalist (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 7:30:02 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 3

yes it is... compared to a 67,000 turtle looking lex SC430... i must say that quality wise/performance/looks is a value of an audi priced at this range
— shabaru (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 8:03:21 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 3

it depends on what you're looking for. If all you expect is the traditional quality build of an Audi then 50k is worth your money. If you're looking for awesome performance then you may have to look at the 335i.

but I think the A5 has more road presence than the 3 series. something I want in a car.
— Agent63 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 8:17:56 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 2

To AlexTx: in 2002 they came up with a new A4, then a new one in 2005, and now a new one in 2008. So their pattern appears to be 3 years where BMW and Merc stick to the 6 year plan.

To S4cabriofoxone: I have seen both the A4 and A5 and they look the same from the front and the rear (same headlight and taillights design). It wouldve been wiser to differentiate them more

— mojo81 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 9:09:17 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1

At the end it boils down to what you are looking for in your car:

1) Pure driving pleasure and involvement -> BMW
2) Nice modern interior and day to day cruiser with more exclusivity -> AUDI
— mojo81 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 9:13:05 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 2

A loaded A5 is ~$51,000

A loaded 335i coupe is ~$57,000

The A5 price seems good to me. Pluse it looks way better.
— filthyrich (View Profile)

Posted on 5/21/2008 10:58:33 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1

My loaded 335i was 50k. And I was unable to do Euro delivery (due to work), which would have cut the price by another 7%. In the bay area, lease prices on an S5 are totally insane. I heard a quote of $1600 a month, with is in M3 and 911 territory.

Anyway, the S5 is stunning, just stunning. I really love it.
— supermoto (View Profile)

Posted on 5/22/2008 3:59:35 PM | | Votes: 1

A loaded S5 coupe is just under $58K!

BTW, supermoto, you can also do Euro delivery and get a price reduction on an S5. Just FYI.
— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)

Posted on 5/22/2008 10:48:53 PM | | Votes: 1

1999 Dodge Avenger ?
— JWalkerLegrande (View Profile)

Posted on 5/22/2008 9:56:18 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1

1evlaudi my point wasnt that you can supe up a bmw or an audi my point was you would have 8k change with the bmw over the audi and how you could spend that money. sure you can do the same thing with audi but your still behind by 8k
— markanthony0419 (View Profile)

Posted on 5/22/2008 2:02:35 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1

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Nice as Nice Can Be, But Is The Audi A5 Really Worth $50k?

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