From: bob@ncube.com (Bob Kehoe)
Subject: Audi 100CS Quattro/Volvo 850 GLT
Organization: nCUBE Computers, Beaverton, Oregon, U.S.A.
Date: Tue, 8 Sep 1992 18:20:21 GMT

A few quick notes on my road-testing the above cars,
based on a week in each and not going into all the
technical specifications of each:

1992 Audi Quattro 100 CS:  A beautifully turned out
automobile with quality/fit/finish of others I've tested
in this price range ($32,900).  The full-time AWD, at least
in the dry-pavement situations I experienced was there but
not noticeable.  I was hoping for some wet-weather driving,
but alas the pacific northwest hasn't experienced these driving
conditions in an (unfortunately) long time.

Ergonomics overall were very good - a road car for 4 which won't
wear you out for long periods of driving.  All controls are nicely
laid out and non-threatening.  One measure I use with road-test
cars is trying to figure everything out quickly without referring
to the owners manual.  The only downside, and this is for today's
cars in general, is that I, the old fart, find both radio and HVAC
control that are controlled by a godzillion buttons confusing.  I
don't like to take my eyes off the road to figure out which selections
I need to make.  Fortunately, cars like the Audi allow one to go into
an automatic mode for HVAC - select the temp you wish and it'll take
care of itself.

The one thing that I felt the Audi (V6) needed was more punch.  It puts
out about 172hp (and this was a 5-speed), but it was bog-slow in acceleration.
I found myself using 2nd and 3rd a lot for quick acceleration.  One note -
this Audi was SO QUIET that I found myself having to drive by the tach a lot.
It's very easy to approach the redline without knowing it.  I'd like the punch
of, say, the Mazda V6 (also about 172hp.).  Then again, the Audi weighs in about
3800lbs.

Because of the past, Audis in general tend to depreciate quite a bit over the first
year.  I don't know if that trend is continuing, but sometimes it's better to let
the first owner take the big hit in the first year.  Audi locally reports that the
sales of the 100 are up quite a bit.  All told, I was very impressed with the Quattro.

Volvo 850 GLT:  Volvo's first (to my knowledge) journey into the front-drive world, 
coupled with a wonderful and torquey 5-cylinder putting out around 142hp.  I don't yet
know or understand why Volvo decided to go fwd.  Having been a past Volvo owner and
enthusiast, I was really looking forward to testing their latest addition.  I really
WANT to like the new 850, but.....(must note that this car was an early production model
without full certification - maybe the only one in the area.)

Styling - typical Volvo, based on the 7-series styling, though scaled down a bit with a
few rounded corners.  IMO, Volvo should've been a little more radical in styling this
platform.  Only another Volvo enthusiast will recognize it's uniqueness.  Also in the
interior department - the typical Volvo layout.  Not as nicely laid out as the Audi -
the tach especially is 1/2 way hidden by the steering wheel.  The fit/finish of the
test car is not up to the standards of this price class ($25-$30K), in my opinion.
Quite a bit of road noise as well, coupled with the buzzy motor.

But the driveline/handling is what makes the Volvo enjoyable.  A bit heavy in the steering
department, but it corners like a snake.  A very secure feeling.  There are also quite a
few interior rattles, exhaust (I think) rattling, and other little things that hopefully
won't be there in the full production mode.  The most serious flaw which I found is with
the sunroof operation.  Going either from the full-open position or the vent position,
there is no positive 'closed' lock position.  I actually have to get out to look at the
sunroof to make sure it is, in fact, closed completely.  If they don't take care of this,
I'm afraid a lot of owners will be caught off-guard.

Like I say, I really want to like the new 850.  In my opinion, Volvo won't win any NEW
Volvo owners, but will get the attention of the die-hards.  The market in this price
range is just too keen with other European models and, of course, the Japanese.
Time will only tell, but I don't believe the new model brings Volvo into the 21st Century.
Oh- one note also to Volvo.  The integral kid's seat in the middle of the back seat is ok,
but don't charge me more for it - make it an option.  A lot of folks will never use it
and I don't think the sticker should be upped for it's inclusion as standard equipment.

Next Week:  Toyota MR2 Turbo

bob

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