A4 B7 2.0 Tdi....sports suspension

Hi,
I have just changed from an '02 SE Avant with 16" alloys to a '05 S-Line avant running 18" rims, yes it is a firmer ride but the handling is also a lot tighter making the whole car feel more agile.

I would have thought the sports suspension was a better route rather than just increasing alloy size, so that you get the stiffer spring ratings and damper settings, but by keeping 16" alloys will have a 'taller' tyre sidewall to absorb some of the harshness.

The difference between 16" and 18" is very minimal, I have changed twice on A4's, so the difference between dropping down from 17" to 16" would be so small ride wise I think you will regret it.

I have just changed the 17" 5 spokes on the cab for 18" S4 wheels and again can't really tell a difference.

The one area that Audi really lets itself down on, imho, is the suspension. The SE is truly awful, far too wollowy whist still managing to fell every small lump and bup in the road as if it were a crater. The sport is a little better, no better at reducing the amount of jarring but you gain a little handling. The S-line on my A3 was pretty good, actually absorbed the pot holes etc. better than any se or sport I have owned and the handling was superb.

I have just bought a cab sport and as soon as fund permit I will get some decent shocks and springs on it if I decde to keep it.

the only difference you will notice with 16" wheels is it will look a bit /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/swear.gif! And you will regret it later.

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the only difference you will notice with 16" wheels is it will look a bit /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/swear.gif! And you will regret it later.

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I agree.
I've seen new A4's with 16 inchers,and they look awful. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif

Lexus?

I've got one and don't recommend it. Fine around town, but too bouncy on the motorway, and much too much body roll and lurch when changing direction quickly. My old Leon Cupra R had a better ride, and that's saying something!