2004 Audi S4 Cabriolet Quattro Published 08/12/2004

I am continually impressed by the quality and value of every new vehicle introduced into the market this year. From the most humble econo-box to the ultra luxury sedans, new models have more comfort, convenience, safety and excitement than ever. Automakers worldwide are responding to the pressures of competition, using technology to develop the best vehicles in our history. Even cars costing less than $15,000 have luxury features previously found only on high line vehicles.

Therefore vehicles priced north of $40,000 must be something very special to consider not only a great car but as a good value. The new 2004 Audi S4 Cabriolet is very special because it is not only is a great car but it may be one of the best value cars available at any price.

I often criticize sport utility vehicles for trying to be too many things for too many people. In their quest to be everything, they often do nothing right. But the 2004 Audi S4 Cabriolet is the right combination of four-seat luxury, powerful performance, top down fun and all wheel drive security. These are virtues that normally cannot be packaged together in one vehicle, but Audi has hit a home run in all four areas.

Sitting squarely in the prestige luxury segment the Audi is instantly recognizable as a European luxury-touring vehicle. Absolutely beautiful lines and graceful quality personify the Audi S4 Cabriolet. Exterior appearance remains clean even with the soft top retracted. Larger air intakes and voluminous dual exhausts are signs this is a coveted Audi S model.

Audi produces five distinctive model lines to entice even the most discriminating buyer. Nine A4 models span the range from the entry-level A4 Sedan, Sport Wagon Avant, to our exciting S4 Cabriolet. The A6 line is available in six models of wagons and Sedans including the astonishing 450hp RS 6. Flagship status belongs to the all aluminum A8 and the TT is available in both Roadster and Coupe configurations. Of course if you have your heart set on a Bavarian sport utility vehicle the Allroad Quattro may be the answer to your dreams.

Our vehicle for this drive was the outstanding 2004 S4 Cabriolet. At $58,595 this represents almost everything I desire in a vehicle.

While we have grown to expect four-wheel drive systems on pickups and sport utility vehicles, adding all-wheel-drive technology to performance cars is a relatively modern innovation. Quattro permanent all-wheel drive is a dramatic advantage in harnessing and controlling power in this performance car. On dry country back road pavement to the unexpected ice covered street, driving confidence and safety is enhanced by all wheel drive.

I grew up in the age of the big American V8 pumping out 300+ horsepower, so finding this V8 Audi produced 340 horsepower from a rather small 4.2 liter V8 was intriguing. Slightly over 18 inches long this powerful naturally aspirated V8 propelled our two-ton luxury car from a dead stop to sixty miles per hour in less than six seconds. Make no mistake; this is a true performance car. Lightweight aluminum suspension provides agile handling and exceptional ride characteristics.

Of course it was the top down luxury that topped off everything. A day trip through the flint hills of Kansas was a perfect test for this touring convertible. Rock solid and comfortable this is a convertible to travel anywhere in total luxury. Special engineering attention was given to reduce vibrations normally associated with convertibles. With the top up the interior is fully finished with minimal detection of linkage.

True it won't haul lumber for remodeling the kitchen or tow the 20ft boat to the lake, but this is my idea of a near perfect car. High performance 340 horsepower V8 power, permanent all-wheel drive, top down convertible experience, all wrapped in outstanding luxury design makes this 2004 Audi S4 Cabriolet Quattro an exceptional value for less than $60,000.

2004 Audi S4 Cabriolet Quattro
340 horsepower V8
Permanent all-wheel drive

$53,850.00 Base MSRP
$58,595.00 Price as Driven

15/21 EPA MPG

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