Sean - most likely a 330i with a 5 speed manual.
I am going to give the A4 one more chance and take it for another test drive
Some driving impressions of the A4 were . . .
First let me tell you that I took a very short drive of the A4, it lasted about 5-7 minutes and it was at night. I originally went to the dealer earlier but forgot my dirvers license, so I went back tonight about 1/2 hr before they closed so I couldn't go as long as I wanted to.
Anyway, the car is very tight (solid) feeling, more so then my 330Ci.
The interior is beautiful, the leather is a lot better quality then BMW's. The Manual was decent though the throws were a drop longer then I expected but still felt precise. The clutch was pretty good and didn't have that BMW feel that is either push all the in or let all the way out (springiness). You BMW stick drivers know the feeling of what I am talking about.
My only real complaint about the A4 is the driver's space is small. I feel kind of closed in especially compared to our 3er which kind of let's you spread out a little. Our center console is pretty far away from you, in the A4, it's RIGHT THERE !!
The engine was great and the power was very nice, or I guess I should say the torque is very nice, it's with you all the way and I found myself driving faster then I normally would for a car I'm not used to. It is a definite enthuiasts car.
The thing is I don't trust Audi's as far as comfort. I've never been comfortable in my brothers 98 A4 2.8Q because his seat -0- Lumbar support though for 99 they changed the seat to be more comfortable.
Also, my fathers Allroad which at first feels good starts to wear on me after driving it for 10-15 minutes. The drivers seat is just plain uncomfortable and the center console hits my knee in the worst way.
I think my real worry with the A4 is the comfort of the drivers environment and in particular the driver's seat . . . the support was excellent and during my drive it was great but what about after 10 minutes . . . will i still feel comfortable and will that tight space which feels ok for a test drive feel too confined :dunno:
Those are my issues and since I already know how comfortable the E46 is, then shouldn't I just stick with it.
I told the salesman my concerns and he said to come back again tomorow and go for another drive.
I thing I know for sure, sometimes it's just a matter of getting used to things so maybe the A4 is THE car for me *sorry TD*
BTW overall, the BMW is the Sports car of the 2 and the Audi is the luxury car of the 2.