[lusso]

I've had 3 A4's one of them a sedan and 2 avants. All 1.8 t w/ garrett chips. Well worth the $500. I have always has a warranty on them. The second car had starting problems, Audi traded even up on another no questions asked. All were black. All 3 had squeeky brakes in the colder months.
I would buy another tomorrow. The new A6 avant is the best looking in the line right now.(my opinion)
My suggestion if buying w/o warranty. Purchase pre 2000 they don't have the drive by wire. And a less refined more in the seat of your pants kind of feel.

Black is a good choice b/c lower valances tend to be matte black/ gives car a more uniformed/ more purposeful look.

Just my .02