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I'VE narrowed down my choices between a 2002 Audi A6 Quattro 2.7T (with 64K miles) and a 2004 Saab 93T Arc (with 33K miles). B0th are around 18K but I would like to know which car is more reliable and has better resale value. Also, I would like to know how much maintenance each of these cars would cost on average. Which car would you choose if you had the option?  

I have no real data to support any conclusions about resale value or long-term reliability, especially considering the inherent unknowns about buying a used car.  Did the previous owners use synthetic oil in these turbocharged cars (a sometimes-overlooked necessity, even if the owners manual doesn't say so)?  Did they use low-detergent 87 octane gasoline when they both require premium?  

There's no escaping the uncertainties, but the newer car with lower mileage is probably the more logical choice if piece-of-mind is a primary concern.  

Dynamically, however, I'd pick the A6 with the 2.7T every time.  It's quick, refined, attractive, and beautifully styled and finish on the inside.  With AWD, it's effortless in the snow.  It's also a big, solid German car that's unflappably stable and quiet at high speed.  The 9-3 Arc is a nice car, but Saab's GM ownership has taken a toll on their historic uniqueness without improving their overall capabilities.  The 9-3 handles well, accelerates well, and feels pretty solid.  But everything else in that price category (when new) is as good or better than the Saab.  Then again, at $18K with 33K miles, it'd be pretty hard to justify the older A6 if you weren't in love with it.