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Illustration of the Audi quattro

Ascent to the premium segment

The 1980s and 1990s brought several technical innovations that allowed the brand with the four rings to position itself higher up in the market. Optimised aerodynamics, highly efficient engines, the modern ASF aluminium lightweight construction concept and, above all, the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system – which is still a hallmark of the brand today – set new standards. For the first time, Audi expanded its model range into the luxury and sports car segments. One of the Ingolstadt-based company’s new models in this area was the Audi TT, a timeless design icon.

Overview

 

Audi quattro (1980-1991)

Illustration of the Audi quattro on a grey background

All-wheel drive changes everything.

The Audi quattro made all-wheel drive popular both on the road and in motorsport. The sports coupé was produced from 1980 to 1991 and kicked off quattro’s triumphant success as well several years of dominance in rallying. Due to its superior traction, which improved driving safety, all-wheel drive technology gradually found its way into all model series.

More details

Audi quattro:

  • Engine: Petrol engine, 5 inline cylinders, turbocharging 
  • Displacement: 2,144 cm³
  • Power output: 147 kW/200 PS at 5,500 rpm
  • Top speed: 222 km/h
  • Length/width/height: 4,404/1,720/1,340 mm
  • Unladen weight: 1,290 kg

 
 

Audi 100 (1982-1991)

Illustration of an Audi 100 in red against a white background

Aerodynamic champion.

The Audi 100 (C3) is a prime example of Audi’s rise to a technically innovative premium brand. Thanks to its highly aerodynamic body, the vehicle had a record drag coefficient of 0.30. This product line also saw the introduction of further technical innovations, such as TDI engines and full galvanisation. The Audi 100 helped Audi to expand its internationalisation strategy and successfully enter the Chinese market.

More details

Audi 100 TDI (C3):

  • Engine: Diesel engine, 5 inline cylinders, direct injection, turbocharging 
  • Displacement: 2,460 cm³
  • Power output: 88 kW/120 PS at 4,250 rpm
  • Top speed: 200 km/h
  • Length/width/height: 4,793/1,814/1,421 mm
  • Unladen weight: 1,320 kg

 

Avant RS 2 (1994-1995)

Illustration of an Avant RS 2 in blue on a grey background

The athlete among the estate cars.

This sporty estate car came about through a joint project with Porsche and was the first RS model in the history of Audi. It successfully combined the performance of a sports car with the practical advantages and understated appearance of a family car. When it was launched in 1994, it was the fastest and most powerful Audi production car ever built.

More details

Avant RS 2 (B4):

  • Engine: Petrol engine, 5 inline cylinders, turbocharging
  • Displacement: 2,226 cm³
  • Power output: 232 kW/315 PS at 6,500 rpm
  • Top speed: 262 km/h
  • Length/width/height: 4,509/1,695/1,386 mm
  • Unladen weight: 1,595 kg

 
 

Audi A8 (1994-2002)

Illustration of an Audi A8 in ruby red against a white background

Lightness in the luxury class.

With this luxury-class saloon, the brand cemented its place in the exclusive circle of premium manufacturers. Technical features such as optional quattro drive and a new lightweight aluminium body based on the Audi Space Frame construction principle enabled outstanding driving dynamics for a vehicle of this size. Turbo diesel technology with direct injection (TDI), which had not previously been offered in this class, was added to the portfolio in 1997, opening the way for diesel engines at the top end of the market.

More details

Audi A8 4.2 quattro (D2):

  • Engine: Petrol engine, 8 cylinders in a V configuration
  • Displacement: 4,172 cm³
  • Power output: 220 kW/300 PS at 6,000 rpm
  • Top speed: 250 km/h
  • Length/width/height: 5,034/1,880/1,440 mm
  • Unladen weight: 1,750 kg

 

Audi TT (1998-2006)

Illustration of a TT car in red on a white background

Style icon.

In 1998, Audi caused a sensation in the compact class by launching a sports car based on the A3 platform. The model, available as a coupé and a roadster, served as a further building block for the brand’s premium positioning. Its minimalist design language made it a style icon from the outset. The name TT was a nod to a motorsport tradition, the Tourist Trophy on the Isle of Man, reinforcing the sporty credentials of the car, which was produced in Győr, Hungary.

More details

Audi TT 1.8 T (8N):

  • Engine: Petrol engine, 4 inline cylinders, 20 valves, turbocharging
  • Displacement: 1,781 cm3
  • Power output: 132 kW/180 PS at 5,800 rpm
  • Top speed: 228 km/h
  • Length/width/height: 4,041/1,764/1,346 mm
  • Unladen weight: 1,280 kg

 

Discover the other eras of the Audi product history

Illustration of the Horch 1

The beginnings

Audi and its predecessor brands were among the pioneers of automotive engineering at the beginning of the 20th century. The brands covered all vehicle segments, producing everything from entry-level to luxury models.

Illustration of the Audi front on a grey background

United to form Auto Union AG

With the merger of Audi, DKW, Horch and Wanderer to form Auto Union AG in 1932, the manufacturers ensure their survival in the crisis thanks to synergies and segmentation.

Illustration of the car Union SP 1000 Roadster RGB

The era of the economic miracle

After the currency reform in 1948, the need for mobility grows in Germany. Auto Union GmbH and NSU Werke AG focus on two-wheelers and automobiles.

Illustration of the NSU Ro80 RGB

The Four Rings with a new profile

Increasing demands on cars require a reorientation, that is mastered by relaunching the traditional Audi brand.

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Notice: All consumption and emission values are based on the characteristics of the German market.