Should I buy this 2009 Audi S5 4.2 V8 or keep my reliable Golf TSI?
Hey everyone, looking for advice before I make the decision.
I currently drive a 2015 VW Golf TSI with 112k miles (180k km). The car is healthy and has been reliable. For the past 2 years I’ve basically only done oil changes and haven’t had any major issues, so I’m a bit worried about leaving a car I trust.
I’m considering switching to a:
2009 Audi S5 4.2 FSI V8
88k miles (141k km)
354 hp naturally aspirated V8
Quattro AWD
ZF Tiptronic automatic
Maintenance history:
Oil changes done every 3–3.7k miles (5–6k km).
Transmission serviced at 53k miles (85k km):
fluid, filter, gasket, and connector sleeve/seal replaced.
Carbon cleaning done summer 2020 at 65k miles (105k km).
Valve cover gaskets replaced.
Suspension refreshed and brakes done in 2024 (~80–85k miles).
Timing chain health checked at 88k miles using camshaft phase readings:
around -1° to -3° KW (seems to be healthy range).
Owner has had the car 8+ years and seems to have done preventative maintenance.
I know the 4.2 V8 can get expensive if neglected, but this one seems like a maintained example. My biggest hesitation is leaving my Golf, which has been very low stress and reliable.
Would you make the switch? How reliable would you expect this S5 to be with this history, and what else should I check before buying?
Thanks!