i have a 97 audi a4 2.8l with 180,xxx miles, i was wondering how long to these cars last if u keep up with maintnence, how long is it before the engine just completely gives out.

Here is a quip for you>>> When asked why Volvo's are so good, the Swedish engineer answered "We design the engine to last through 3 transmissions and the transmissions to last through 3 engines. The truth is: Euro cars can last for darn near ever, if you do the maintenance as prescribed in your owner's manual..The vulnerabilities are, changing the timing belt when called for to prevent engine damage. If you use synthetic oil, the engine will hardly ever show wear. One interesting thing about an Audi is that there are oil jets engineered into the block to keep the wrist pins on the pistons constantly covered with oil. I have personally seen Audi engines with 245,000 miles and are still going strong. The best thing to do is preventative maintenance, use MobilOne 0W-40 oil and only tier one fuel, such as Mobil gas(when they say "drive your engine clean", they mean it!!!) Never,never,never use American (green) coolant, as it rots rubber hoses and head gaskets and wears out aluminum parts. and keep your underbody and underhood CLEAN. Frequently clean the engine bay and watch for deterioration of the CV joints and bearings. Good Luck!!!!