Just picked up our FSI after dropping off the TDI.
First off, any A2 is a great car and Audi should be applauded for turning the concept into reality. Its just shades of greatness in my opinion. However as with any radical idea there have been some problems, in both the build quality and Audi UK / Audi dealer responses to certain problems.
I was lucky enough to be given numerous A2s as courtesy cars whilst my A6 TDI was being serviced (every 4 months - 30k/year) - and this got us into A2 ownership. When I was given my first courtesy A2 I though it was a joke. However, once I'd seen its Tardis like interior - and sporty (for an Audi) driving style I was hooked.
Comparing TDI to FSI back to back again, I'd stick with my earlier comments. It may have been just the TDI I had, but it feels heavier to drive than the petrols. The TDI needs just under 2000rpm to feel comfortable and pulls hard from 2500 to 4500, much lower than 2k and it feels like its straining(unlike my old A6) - this means because of the high gearing you need to change gear a fair bit (3rd up to 30, 4th up to 40, 5th only 50 and above). Our FSI pulls cleanly from anout 1500, and starts pulling strongly at 2500, so you can keep it in 5th from under 40.
Main thing is to get as long a test drive as you can - hopefully back to back with a TDI and a petrol. To get near the performance of the TDI you have to go for the FSI, which also has the benefit of the larger fuel tank.
The 1.4 petrol is fine up to about 50, and actually feels faster than it really is. Once wound up on a motorway at 80 its great as 5th gets into the power band. But get baulked and it means lots of down changes to get going again. That was the main reason why we switched to an FSI.
If you're doing lots of miles the econmic reasons for going for a TDI (mpg, servicing) do add up (e.g. £900/year at 30k miles just in fuel). At 10k/year its less clear cut.
As for common faults, as a general guide probably the newer the car the better. Though older cars that have been sorted (as per our old 1.4) can make good buys if you can get all the history on it. Searching the threads would be a good idea, as I don't think there is a FAQ available - please shoot me down if there is. A small list of my own:
- driveshaft clunks
- windscreen wiper design
- loom problems
- AM Radio reception
- condensation in headlights
- various trim rattles
- boot not shutting properly
- mooing noise from EGR valve
What budget have you got ? TDIs seem to go for about 1k more than similar age 1.4 petrols, there are some good value nearly new FSIs around as the recent £250 climate/paint offer took 1k of the list price of al A2s.
We sold our 1.4 SE 2000/X 12k miles for £9k recently which was a fair price. Dealers will add at least £1k to private prices. All cars will still have part of their 3 year warranty left, but be aware there are some odd spec imported models around.
Dave
1.6SE