Could be my imagination but seems like a lot of ads say "recent $5k rebuilt transmission" or something to that effect. Of course parts availability is nothing like MB. And the fact that you are posting here is probably an indication of how bad the forums.
Thanks everyone. I stumbled into a beautiful 99 A8 Quattro. Black with ecru leather. Super clean, straight, unmolested, 122k miles. Loaded, of course, since very litle was optional. Drove it and *surprise* the trans is clunky. The research I've done in the past 24 hours is somewhat contradictory but consists largely of horror stories of hideous cash outlays for repairs. Trans replacement is #1 issue. Ouch.
Again, thanks, and moderater feel free to delete this whole thread if you see fit.