Day 3: Dallas-bound

Arriving in Memphis at nearly 8:00 p.m., we soon realized we were the townspeople. So quiet, you could hear a pin drop. Downtown Memphis was reminiscent of a bad western movie.

Needless to say, there is not much else to expand upon about Memphis.

Following a night’s stay in The Madison, my partner and I soon found out that we had taken second place in our A4 3.0 TDI. Surprisingly, the vehicle obtained over 37 miles-per-gallon. Considering we were not trying the last half of the leg, we were happy with our results. I estimate if we had not been filming, the A4 could have easily topped over 40 MPG for the day.

Source: rp

Not bad for a 3700 pound pseudo-luxury sedan.

Following our announcements, we packed up our auto and headed directly for our next stop; Little Rock, Arkansas. The three hour jaunt was quite enjoyable. Even in top gear, the A4 can pull well for passing – no need to downshift. When we reached our destination, I had the opportunity to open the windows and give the A4 some gas in first gear. Wow, the sound is astonishing. The turbo makes a glorious whistle while resonating this powerful, truck noise.

Source: rp

After a brief lunch, we left the colorful city of Little Rock and motored on to Dallas. Much greater distance than anticipated. Thankfully, passersby managed to entertain us throughout.

One guy, just outside of Little Rock, happened to notice our camera crew. Trust me, it is not that hard when you have two individuals following in a Q7, hanging out of the sunroof and doors, videotaping and photographing. Our mystery man made sure to pose for our cameras and continued to make a total fool of himself. It was great.

Source: rp

It was these moments that I came to love on the marathon.

Onward bound. You would be surprised how many cows there are in Texas. Quite shocking, actually. I am convinced the entire United States receives a vast quantity of their beef from the Lone Star State.

After being harassed by inpatient drivers and truckers, we soon became within three miles of our stopoff for fueling. Unfortunately, it appeared that Dallas has quite a traffic problem, although, it is nothing compared to New York jams.

Source: rp

This gave us a chance to make friends in traffic. After all, everyone wants to be on television. So, we gave that chance to several people we spoke with while in the jam.

Eventually, we made it. The hotel where we stayed, The Joule, must be one of the finest hotels in the land. Even turning on my room’s lights was as magnificent as one of Beethoven or Mozart’s symphonies. Like the Audi, it too had a ridiculously amount of useless technology. You have to love it.

If you have the means, I highly suggest spending the night.

End of day three.

If you would like to see more pictures and videos from the journey, go to UnitedPictures and download the items.

Source: rp

rp

Day 2: Journey to Memphis

Do you think cornfields are boring? Yeah, so do I. However, when you are behind the wheel of an A4 3.0 TDI, things change quickly; not to mention lanes.

Starting the morning right, by getting keys to my Audi, I headed out to the starting grid. Car number 8, my new love until October 13.

The A4 may be the best car out of the entire fleet. It has the best styling, nicest interior and great power. I adore the sport seats with alcantara inserts. Fantastic for gripping.

Source: rp

Upon start-up you would not think you are behind the wheel of a diesel. Chatter is kept to a minimal level and pick-up comes on briskly. The flag drops and we are rolling. After realizing the GPS navigation system has no idea what it is stammering on about, we find our way to Michigan Ave. and the satellite picks up the vehicle.

Finally, able to put the hammer down. Well, not exactly. Utilizing a very simple strategy, I pin the vehicle’s speedometer at 70 miles-per-hour and give the throttle the slightest touch. Every millimeter counts. Every hill’s incline and decline counts. If a feather lands on the A4 whilst flying overhead, you bet, it will count.

Source: rp

Chicago to Memphis is most likely one of the most interesting routes to travel. Being born and raised in the New York City region, culture shock sets in. Barns, cornfields, silos, and horses surround in all directions. The horizon falls straight to the ground.

Source: rp

After the first leg, my partner and I were guessing we received over 35 MPG. Considering we did not even try for the second half of driving, my partner and I were quite content with our estimates.

More to follow.

rp