I owned an '85 5000S. It was good until around 120K. Then it started falling apart. I finally got rid of it with 190K on it. The last 50K mile probably cost $10-$12K. Fortunately, I purchased a five year UNLIMITED MILEAGE warranty, so the insurance co. took the bite for most of the cost.

The weird thing is, I loved that car. The interior was so plush compared to a 300D of the same year. I think the Audi retailed for around $20K and a Mercedes around $32K. Although when you factor in all the $$$ spent on repairs, the Benz was still a better deal.

I have always liked the way Audi's looked and drove. The big draw back is resale value, they have had a history of poor resale. Audi still hasn't recovered from the hatchet job 60 Minutes did on them.

I'd own one again, except I've had such good luck with Mercedes.

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Mr. BILL

91 300E 120K
90 300SE 275K (sold)
92 BMW 525iM 120K
90 BMW 525iA 175K
85 300D 175K (sold)
84 300SD 245K (sold)