November '08 Featured AZ'er: Billi's 2004 A4 sedan

User Name: Billi
Real Name: Fredrik Tangen
Location: Darbu, Norway
Year of Vehicle: 2004
Model of Vehicle: A4 quattro sedan
Engine of Vehicle: 1.9 TDI 130hp

Color of Vehicle: Owner's custom color (influenced by a 1981 Chrysler)

 

Yes you read the title right. It's not a misprint. Looking at the photos, you may assume that's an RS 4. I mean certainly the year of the car couldn't be right, as that would make it a B6 and that sure looks like a B7. Now unless you've been following the original build thread, you'd still be quite confused. You'd probably be thinking to yourself that if this was in fact a B6 A4 that's been converted into what looks to be a B7 RS 4, why would anyone go through all that trouble? Well aside from the obvious answer, that it just looks so damn badass, you have to also understand a thing or two about the price of cars and of fuel in Norway (where this month's Featured AZ'er resides). You'd also have to factor in one more variable as to why someone would do all that work...because they can!

Fredrik, who goes by the username Billi here on The Zine, happens to have some very talented friends. Those talents can be seen here in the following photos, as the skills and art of automotive body-modifications and paint-work has been taken to a whole other level. For those of us in other countries, such as the United States and Canada, such conversions may not make sense. In European countries like Norway and Sweden though, it's a bit more common amongst the automotive enthusiast crowd. As Fredrik explains it, the cost of purchasing and operating an actual RS 4 is far more expensive than making your much more efficient (while albeit much slower) 1.9 liter turbocharged diesel-powered A4 simply look like one.

The last major factor in such a project is the thrill of the challenge. Most, if not all of us here, know exactly what the "Mod Bug" is. Well that urge, that sickness if you will, comes in varying degrees and lasts for varying lengths of time. For some of us it's the need for new wheels, a better suspension setup, different bumpers, a unique paint color, or maybe all of the above. I suppose you could relate it to those who enjoy "flipping" houses. The fun is in taking on a complete redesign. In taking one thing and making it look totally different, totally unique, totally their own. From the foundation to the roof, that's exactly what Fredrik has taken on here. While it still might seem crazy to some of us it's hard to deny the artwork done here. He was up for the challenge, he did it because he could, he had the resources, and he and his friends pulled it off masterfully.

 

� Engine/Exhaust:

� Wheels/Brakes:

• Stock/OEM RS 4 19" Wheels
• Stock/OEM RS 4 Brakes

 � Interior: 

• Stock/OEM RS 4 front bumper
• Stock/OEM RS 4 rear bumper
• Stock/OEM RS 4 hood
• Stock/OEM RS 4 trunk
• Stock/OEM RS 4 front fenders
• Stock/OEM RS 4 rear fenders
• Stock/OEM RS 4 front grille
• Stock/OEM RS 4 sideskirts
• Stock/OEM RS 4 headlights
• Stock/OEM RS 4 taillights
• Stock/OEM RS 4 side mirrors
  
• Yellow Lamin-X on headlights
• Yellow Lamin-X on foglights
• BMW M3 trunk lip

• Installing bigger stereo with RNS-E
• OEM RS 4 steering wheel
  

 

Q (Audizine): So how long have you owned this car?
A (Billi): About one and a half years.

 

Q: What was your main purpose or goal with the car?
A: A daily driver. Wanted a diesel because of the silly prices here in Norway.

Q: Think you'll be getting another one anytime soon?
A: Nope. Building a garage is priority number one right now.

 

Q: Is this your first Audi? If not, what other models and years have you owned?
A: No, the first was a 1996 A4 1.9 TDI 90hp that got new paint and some Caractere styling. The second was a 2000 A4 1.9 TDI 110hp quattro that was converted to a S4 looker.

 

Q: How long have you been into Audis and in the European tuning scene?
A: Since my first Audi, about 8 years I guess.

Q: And how long have you been into cars in general, as an enthusiast?
A: Since before I got my license. Long time ago.

 

Q: Where do you think your automotive passion and enthusiasm comes from?
A: It's simply the internal quest for making my cars look better.

Q: What do you love most about your current car?
A: The overall look.

Q: What's your biggest peeve in regards to the car, the one thing you dislike the most?
A: Right now...the stereo.

Q: Can you explain your modding style?
A: Sheep in wolf's clothing. (laughs)

 

Q: Do you prefer to do the work yourself, or do you have a shop or specific person perform the work for you?
A: I'm very lucky to have a best friend who is an expert body modifier, Pål-Andre Fredriksen!

 

Q: Which mod are you the most proud of or happy with?
A: Putting the B7 RS 4 body on an B6 A4 is definitely one thing to be happy about!

Q: Please describe your fondest memory of owning, modifying, or driving your A4?
A: The time building it. That is always the best! Once the car is finished, I tend to look for another project.

A: Just go for it! Don't be afraid to let your buddy cut into your car. (laughs)

Q: Bold words, I like it! And lastly, do you have anyone you'd like to mention or thank?