A4 B5 vs. 3-series E36 (reliablility)

[BMWdude]

Strictly from the reliability point of view. What do you think is the more realiable car? The 1996-2001 A4 or say the 1996-1998 3-series? Or are the pretty much equal?

 

[epj3]

They have their fair share of problems, but I know the audi's are more costly to repair.

 

[Tom]

As I remember B5 Audis were not very reliable, even my 2003 B6 which I've owned for over a year had some issues with the CV Boot, bad Bose radio, HID auto adjust system.

If you're deciding between a '98 BMW vs. a '01 Audi, I would go with the BMW.

 

[Zee3Coupe]

JD Power and assoc long term brand reliability ratings place Audi (and VW) way WAY down at the bottom, while BMW is close to the top. I know a lot of people who are pleased with their leased Audi, but everyone I know that bought their audi is disgusted.

However, the kicker is the repair costs. By all accounts, the Audi is absurdly expensive to repair. A friend recently had her clutch done in her 98 A4 for approx $900. By comparison, the BMW is relatively cheap (so long as you don't take it to a dealer).

Of course, this isn't head to head, but as a rule of thumb I would not get an Audi (or VW, or Saab....)