Audi TTS or BMW 135i?

[conneem]

Thanks everyone for your replies.

I will definitely get a proper test drive in the TTS before making a decision.

dr Dunkel – the truck space in the TTS isn’t too bad, especially if you fold down the rear seats. It’s not quite as big as the 135i, but it is sufficient for our weekend warrior or slightly extended road trips.

I know you can tune the heck out of the 135i with BMW performance or Dinan parts, which would likely remedy the suspension. I thought the M1 was just a rumor? If not, I might just have to wait!

I have a regular TT, just to comment on the luggage space. It is quite accomodating and with the back seats down I can get 4 tyres/wheels in the back

EVO in the UK had a 135i as a long term test car with the intention to tuning it to beat the M3 lap time on their circuit. The experiment only lasted a couple of months and ended abruptly as when they added all the BMW performance bits (power, suspension, wheels, tyres ect.), while it felt better to drive it was actually slower around the track. The 335i seems to be a better balanced car but I suppose you have to pay the extra cash for it.

While the TTS may be down on power vs the 135i it is ~140kg(300lbs) lighter so is a match up to 160km/h and in gear, however at high speeds the 135i will pull away. The less weight + standard mag ride also allows the TTS to respond better in direction changes ect.. and results it in being quicker on a track.

BMW 135i Coupe (E82) vs Audi TT-S Coupe - FastestLaps.com

Also, here is another comparison article to look at, it is the 135i against the 3.2 TT but you may pick up some more information

1-Series Coup vs rivals | Car Group Tests | Car Reviews | Auto Express

 

[Rx8]

So I finally got a test drive in the Audi TTS. I was disappointed. I still think it has better lines than the 135i, but no matter how big a turbo you put on that little 2.0 liter engine, it just doesn't feel as good as the turbo charged 3.0 liter straight 6. The exhaust note was virtually non existent and there was still a fair amount of turbo lag. In my opinion, the only thing this car has going is its good looks (inside and out) and handling. What really turned me off to this car was the price. The dealer wanted $750 USD per month on a lease! That's more than a brand new M3! Audi must be out of their minds pricing the TTS that high. I'm sure the 5 cylinder TT-RS will be a big improvement for this little Audi, but its probably not worth the money.

So my next car will not be a TTS. The 135i is still at the top of my list and I'm interested in the 335is. Just need to get a test drive in it.

Thanks to all who responded and voted!

 

[footie]

Audi need to learn that Americans are a different animal than Europeans, you guys love a bargain, I mean LOVE a bargain and bang for your buck is as important as the amount of metal you get for your hard earned dosh. BMW and Mercedes have had years of a head start and are now established brands and where as Audi might be as respected in Europe it most definitely isn't held in the same respect across the pond. So to win sales with Americans means giving them want they crave most which is a bargain.

Getting all this AoA.

 

[Rx8]

You make a good point footie. There is a perception in the US that Audi is just an overpriced VW since they share engines. But who doesn't want a good bargain? I'm sure it's not just Americans. For me, I just want to be sure I'm spending my money on a car that's going to make me smile when I turn the key and it would be big plus if I had some cash left over for a nice vacation.