A6 2.5TDI - Should I get one?

[Splitty]

Hi Guys
I'm about to have a look at a 1996 with about 120k miles, Just reading through some of the posts on here, there seem to be quite a few problems with them. Is that a fair comment?
I'm told it will do 40 - 45 mpg is that realistic?
The cam belt is due for a change and that seems to be about £500-£600 ouch.
I like the car but am beginning if I ought to start looking for a 1.9TDI instead.

Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

 

[meatychi]

How much are you looking at paying for it?

I struggle to get anything above 33 mpg with mine!

Not sure how good the older 1.9's are at pulling the 6 around! I'd stick with the 2.5!

 

[K7ERG]

Go for the 2.5tdi

 

[Splitty]

Looking for £2,300 which I think is probably the top end.

Just had a look at it.Looks nice apart from rust on 1 wheel arch and drives well.
It's a manual, so I resume that should make it more economical than an auto.

 

[nivagh]

Yeah, manual will be more economical than auto - you can keep it in a higher gear than auto would naturally select, for one thing. Also faster in acceleration and easier to apply engine braking.

 

[Jason]

We had a 100 2.5tdi (5 cylinder) best ****** car that we have ever had,would do 45/50mpg regardles of whether you were flat out,great for towing,sold it with well over 300K and still going strong.

Only thing to watch is the syncro going on second gear,being picked up by the primary shaft and gearbox knacked.