I heard they were $13000USD import direct from factory, I bet it will be much more if you order them from local Audi parts department.

Between your choice, I will go for CLS55.

 

Hey Shawn,

I noticed you've already got a Cayenne S in your stables. Is that not enough for your practicality needs? Unless it's your wife's daily..

If you're looking to replace the 997S, based on your list of choices, here's what I think:

CLS55: Great luxury mile muncher. Get to your destination with plenty of space for your luggage/family and still know you outrun most cars out there. I drove an E55 and man can that thing go! I'd personally choose an E over a CLS because it's a bit more macho-looking and more spacious

QuattroPorte: I agree with the looks of the car (and relative rarity), but the transmission (paddle-shift) suspension and braking are SOOO disappointing for what you'd expect. It also feels very cramped inside

RS4: It's a totally different class of car to the others, much smaller inside and out. 6-speed only I believe. But if your wife doesn't mind another manual, this would be my choice mainly because it's the ONLY car on your list that you can actually TAKE TO THE TRACK and not feel embarassed doing so.

So RS4 would be my choice out of these. But, if you can stretch your budget to an M5, you will not regret it. I've seen a vid of a track sprint between an M5, 997S, 04 Gallardo, Skyline, and the M5 came out on top (close race though). Of course, many factors are involved here, but I won't get into that. Although I personally wouldn't take an M5 on the track, it goes to show that it has been developed with "fun" in mind.

As for looks, I don't think you can beat the raw aggression/potential of the RS4 considering its price

My 3 cents

 

Thanks for the feedback. I am tossing it around. The Cayenne just bores me and eats too much fuel. I do alot of weekend trips and I want somthing fast yet comfortable. I was cramming my daughter in the back for the two hour jaunts to see grandpa and grandma but her legs are getting too long now.

 

Concerns about MB - brake by wire on E or CLS class car. Stopping power no where near as good as 997. I would go for RS4 - great car, all wheel drive, etc.

 

My old mans E63 stopps pretty damned good. I think the brakes are upgraded for 07. Was surprised to see two piece rotors on her, thats for sure.

 

Taken from Edmunds review of the 2007 E63 review - you are correct for 2007, changes in the braking system:

"Another satisfying improvement involves a new braking system. From 2003 through 2006, the E-class came equipped with touchy and grabby electrohydraulic brakes, a system dubbed Sensotronic Brake Control. But no other automaking rival mimicked Mercedes in offering the electric brakes, so the Stuttgart company has taken the hint and ditched the expensive and unsatisfying SBC system in favor of solid, predictable, and easily modulated conventional hydraulic brakes. Well, well, whaddya know? Another satisfying improvement involves a new braking system. "

 

You mean CLS63 im guessing... but i'd take the cls out of all of them, even though the RS4 is definentaly an awesome car.

 

sean the maserati is the way to go

 

I am interested in your porsche when you decide to sell it! Please PM if you do! M5 would be a great choice, 6spd or smg!

 

I have a few people to PM sounds like. Makes it hard to make a decision, I hate to make a mistake.

 

I would dump the Cayenne as it bores you. I personally would pick the E63 or an M5 over the CLS/RS4. The E550 4matic is not a bad alternative either. 380 horses, excellent value in my opinion, if you need AWD.

Coming from an E55, I find the handling of the 997 addictive.

 

We just rolled 39,000 miles on our E500 and bought it new 14 months ago. I heard about the quality issues before we made the purchase, but I have to tell you that it has been pretty much flawless. My absolute favorite attribute to the car is that you can take make a 4-5 hour trip and get out feeling refreshed. It is awesome to have the performance and comfort. It doesn't really matter much to me that I have a lot of power under the hood on a weekend trip if I get out of the car feeling like I have been beat up! Of course the AMG version will be a lot more kick in the pants, but we have been very happy with the E500 and will be purchasing more MB in the future (but not before I get a 911. I have been waiting since first grade for one)
-Ryan

 

get the rs4

 

this says it all

 

I went the opposite. Had a modified E55 and sold for my 997S. haven't looke back, and will most likely be ordering a TT. You should probably add the M5 to your list. I've never liked the looks of the CLS but that's just me. I do like the Qport but haven't driven it. I understand they are coming out with a full auto box next year.