Best Car Reviews - 1988 Audi 80/90 quattro

Introduction

The 1988 Audi 80/90 quattro epitomizes the innovative engineering and timeless class that Audi is renowned for. Released in the late '80s, this model was designed with the passionate driver in mind, targeting those who seek a reliable and thrilling driving experience wrapped in a sleek, compact package. What sets this model apart is its pioneering all-wheel-drive system, an emerging technology at the time that underscored Audi's forward-thinking approach to automotive design.

Design and Exterior Features

The Audi 80/90 quattro boasts a classic yet bold aesthetic. Its frame is compact, exuding a poised surety on the road while signaling the performance potential within. Notable exterior elements include:

Distinctive grille featuring Audi's iconic four-ring emblem.
Streamlined headlights that advance the aerodynamic shape.
Subtle yet sophisticated body lines that convey both elegance and strength.
Available alloy wheels enhancing the model's sporty appeal.

These design choices established the Audi 80/90 quattro as a forward-looking subcompact vehicle, turning heads with its crisp, clean lines and elegant style.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the Audi 80/90 quattro offers a refined cabin that prioritizes driver and passenger comfort. Key interior features and quality include:

High-quality materials throughout, offering a luxury feel uncommon in its class.
Strategically placed controls enhancing driver convenience and safety.
Ample legroom and ergonomic seating for comfort over long journeys.
Thoughtful storage solutions, with both practicality and style in mind.

Optional leather upholstery and sophisticated design further emphasize the vehicle's luxurious feel, ensuring you travel in comfort and style.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Audi 80/90 quattro sports a powerful 5-cylinder FFS engine that sends power to all four wheels via a manual 5-speed transmission. This setup allows the car to go from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 9 seconds, making it a radical choice for those who value both versatility and performance.

Driving Experience:

City: Engaging and responsive, making urban commutes less of a chore.
Highway: Cruises smoothly with stable handling at high speeds.
Corners: Excellent grip and balance, thanks to the quattro all-wheel-drive system.

With a fuel consumption of 16.53 L/100 km, the model offers competitive efficiency for its era.

Technology and Connectivity

For its time, the Audi 80/90 quattro was loaded with impressive tech, including:

An analog dashboard interface with clearly visible instrumentation.
AM/FM radio and cassette player as standard.
Manually operated windows and door locks, prioritizing simplicity and durability.

This car is equipped with all the essential features needed in the era, proving Audi’s commitment to high quality and reliable technology solutions.

Safety Features

The 1988 Audi 80/90 quattro doesn't skimp on safety:

Robust passenger cell and crumple zones designed to improvement the safety of its time.
Anti-lock braking system (ABS) for enhanced control.
Height-adjustable seatbelts for personalized safety.
Designed to meet all federal safety standards of its time.

Pricing and Variants

When initially released, the Audi 80/90 quattro had a base price of approximately $20,000 USD. Compared to its competitors, such as the BMW 3-Series and the Mercedes-Benz 190E, it offered remarkable value given its all-wheel-drive capabilities.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Innovative quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Solid build quality.
Punchy 5-cylinder engine.
Luxurious interior with high-quality materials.
Excellent handling and performance.

Cons

Higher fuel consumption.
Limited modern technology integration.
Noisy at higher speeds.
Maintenance can be costly over time.
Lack of modern safety advancements.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Owning an Audi 80/90 quattro requires an annual maintenance budget of approximately $1,200 USD. Common issues with this model include:

Cooling system leaks.
Frequent brake wear.
Suspension noises from wear and tear.
Electrical system glitches.
Rusting in older models.

Rating

Overall, the 1988 Audi 80/90 quattro scores a commendable 8 out of 10. Here's a breakdown:

Design: 8/10
Comfort: 8/10
Performance: 9/10
Technology: 7/10
Safety: 8/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"This Audi still delivers on its promise of durability and performance after all these years."
"Fuel consumption is on the higher end, but the driving experience makes it worthwhile."
"A classic beauty that still catches eyes wherever I go."
"Would love more modern features, but the quattro system is unmatched."
"Maintenance costs can add up, but it's worth it for the reliability."

Best cars in this category

1988 BMW 3-Series
1989 Mercedes-Benz 190E
1988 Saab 900
1988 Volvo 240
1989 Toyota Celica

Summary

The 1988 Audi 80/90 quattro is suited for drivers who value performance, style, and reliability. Although it might lack some of the modern technologies found in newer models, it more than makes up for it with its robust engineering and classic good looks. Overall, it's a remarkable subcompact car that continues to impress enthusiasts decades after its release, making it a valuable addition for those seeking a blend of classic style and innovative engineering.