Best Car Reviews - 1989 Audi 100 quattro

Introduction

The 1989 Audi 100 quattro marks an iconic year in Audi's midsize car lineup. Released in the late 80s, it was designed for those who valued performance coupled with reliable all-wheel-drive (AWD) capability. Targeted mainly at driving enthusiasts and families seeking a stable, all-weather ride, the Audi 100 quattro was set to stand out with its notable engineering and performance elements. With its striking design and sturdy build, this model quickly became a popular choice for those seeking both luxury and practicality in a midsize sedan.

Design and Exterior Features

The 1989 Audi 100 quattro boasts a sleek, aerodynamic design that encapsulates the essence of European automotive aesthetics during its era. The car presents a poised and robust stance, with standout features that elevate its exterior appeal.

Distinctively sloped front end featuring the brand's trademark grille.
Smooth, flowing lines that extend towards a subtly tapered rear.
Streamlined body for enhanced aerodynamic efficiency.
Rectangular headlamps integrated seamlessly into the vehicle's fascia.
Moody, understated tone-on-tone color options.

Interior and Comfort

Inside the Audi 100 quattro, the cabin reflects Audi's commitment to luxury and comfort. The layout is intuitive, providing easy access to controls, while material quality enhances the overall driving experience.

High-quality upholstery options, featuring premium cloth.
Ergonomically arranged dashboard with clear instrumentations.
Spacious seating area providing ample legroom for front and back passengers.
Manual climate control for customized comfort.
Adjustable steering wheel to optimize driving position.

Performance and Handling

Powering the 1989 Audi 100 quattro is a five-cylinder engine paired with a manual 5-speed transmission. This drivetrain setup is a hallmark of Audi's engineering prowess, offering robust performance and commendable handling.

Engine: 2.3L inline-5 cylinder.
0 to 100 km/h in approximately 9.5 seconds.
Fuel consumption: approximately 16.5 l/100 km, although driving habits can vary this figure.
Exceptional 4-wheel or all-wheel drive system for enhanced traction.
Responsive and agile performance, especially in varied weather conditions.

Technology and Connectivity

While the technology in the 1989 Audi 100 quattro may not match today's standards, at its time, it offered dependable and user-friendly features.

Basic AM/FM audio system with crisp sound quality.
Analog clock embedded in the dashboard for classic appeal.
Simple yet effective dashboard instrumentation.
Manual sunroof option for added luxury.
Thoughtfully placed storage compartments.

Safety Features

The Audi 100 quattro's safety features reflect industry standards of the late 80s, offering decent protection for its time.

Anti-lock braking system (ABS) to enhance braking performance.
Driver and front passenger airbags for added safety.
Unibody construction for increased crash protection.
Seatbelt pretensioners reducing slack during impact.
Solid crash test evaluations, ensuring reliable safety performance.

Pricing and Variants

Initially rolling out with a base price, the Audi 100 quattro undercut many of its competitors in the luxury sedan bracket, offering competitive value for money.

Base price: approximately $23,000 USD at its release.
Available in various trims, tailored to different luxury and performance preferences.
Comparatively cheaper than other luxury midsize sedans of its time, yet rich in features.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Superior traction and stability offered by AWD system.
High build quality with durable materials.
Spacious and comfortable interior, ideal for long journeys.
Classic yet stylish design that's aged gracefully.
Manual transmission appeals to driving purists for a more engaged experience.

Cons

High fuel consumption, not the most economical in its class.
Outdated infotainment technology aligns with its era.
Limited availability of spare parts as the car ages.
Noisy engine during high-speed cruising.
Heavy steering feel, which may not appeal to all drivers.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Maintenance costs for the 1989 Audi 100 quattro can be moderate, with a few common issues arising due to the vehicle's age.

Estimated yearly maintenance cost: $1,200 USD.
Oil leaks can occur and require attention.
Suspension components may wear out prematurely.
Electrical system gremlins can sometimes pop up.
Rust issues on certain body parts, particularly around the wheel arches.
Brake system maintenance, a common point of concern in older models.

Rating

Overall, the 1989 Audi 100 quattro garners a respectable rating for its blend of performance and luxury.

Design: 8/10
Comfort: 7/10
Performance: 8/10
Technology: 6/10
Safety: 7/10

Overall Rating: 7.2/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"I love the AWD; it handles like a dream in the snow."
"The interior still feels plush after all these years."
"Fuel economy is definitely a downside, but the driving thrill compensates."
"Had to repair some rust spots, a common issue with older cars."
"The exterior design still turns heads!"

Best Cars in This Category

1989 BMW 5 Series
1989 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
1989 Volvo 740
1989 Saab 9000
1989 Ford Taurus SHO

Summary

The 1989 Audi 100 quattro is best suited for enthusiasts who appreciate classic European engineering and those living in regions where weather conditions demand superior traction capabilities. With its blend of luxury, reliability, and performance, it remains an appealing choice for collectors and fans of vintage cars, offering a nostalgic driving experience from an era gone by. Despite certain limitations typical of older models, its unique charm and commendable performance continue to hold a place in automotive history.