Audi 80 Sport (1983-86)

Overview: The **Audi 80 Sport (1983-1986)** was a key model in Audi’s lineup, helping to establish the brand’s reputation for **sporty, well-engineered compact executive cars**. Here’s why it was significant:

- **Sportier Appeal**: The 80 Sport was designed to offer a more **dynamic driving experience**, featuring a **1.8-liter engine** with improved performance over standard models.

- **Distinctive Styling**: It had **sportier trim**, including unique alloy wheels and subtle aerodynamic enhancements, making it stand out from the regular Audi 80.

- **Foundation for Future Performance Models**: The success of the 80 Sport helped pave the way for later **high-performance Audi models**, including the **Audi S2 and RS2**.

- **Quattro Influence**: While not all versions had **quattro all-wheel drive**, the 80 Sport benefited from Audi’s growing expertise in **handling and performance**.

- **Competitive Edge**: It helped Audi compete with **BMW’s 3 Series** and other sporty compact executive cars, strengthening Audi’s position in the market.

It may not have been as iconic as the **Audi Quattro**, but it played a crucial role in Audi’s **performance evolution**. 

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COMMON FAULTS 

Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel. 

The Audi 80 Sport from 1983-1986 is a classic car, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common faults. Here are some issues that owners have reported: 

1. **Electrical Problems**: Issues with the wiring loom in the boot and the handbrake switch can cause problems. 

2. **Hydraulic Fluid**: Low hydraulic fluid levels can lead to issues, especially with the manual roof. 

3. **Parts Availability**: Finding replacement parts can be challenging due to the age of the vehicle. 

4. **Driving Position**: Some owners have found the driving position uncomfortable due to the offset steering wheel. 

5. **Dashboard Quality**: The pre-facelift models had a plasticky dashboard, which some owners found unappealing. Despite these faults, the Audi 80 Sport remains a beloved classic for many enthusiasts. 

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Generations/Trim Levels 

Please Note: Generations and Trim Levels Across Countries Generations and trim levels of vehicles often vary between countries as manufacturers tailor models to meet the preferences and requirements of specific markets. For example, a trim level designated as “GL” in the UK might be labelled as “XS” in another country. Due to these regional differences, the information provided on this site pertains exclusively to UK-specific products. 

The Audi 80 Sport from 1983 to 1986 falls under the B2 generation. This generation was produced from 1978 to 1986 and included various models and trims, including the Sport variant. 

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Trim Levels 

The Audi 80 from 1983 to 1986 was offered in several trim levels. Here are some of the main ones: 

1. **Base Trim**: Known simply as the Audi 80, it came with a 55 or 60 PS engine. 

2. **LS**: This trim level featured a 75 PS engine. 

3. **GL**: A more luxurious option with an 85 PS engine. 

4. **GLE**: The top-of-the-line trim with additional features and enhancements. Each trim level offered different equipment and engine options to cater to various preferences and needs. 

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Designer/Dimensions 

The 1983-1986 Audi 80 Sport was designed by Hartmut Warkuß. 

Here are its dimensions: - **Length**: 4383 mm (172.56 inches) - **Width**: 1682 mm (66.22 inches) - **Height**: 1365 mm (53.74 inches) - **Wheelbase**: 2541 mm (100.04 inches) - **Curb Weight**: 930 kg (2050.3 lbs) It's a classic car with a sleek design and impressive performance for its time 1.8 CL (90 Hp) 

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Production Total: 68,400 

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Price New: In 1983, the Audi 80 Sport was available in both 2-door and 4-door versions. Here are the approximate new prices for each: 

- **2-Door Version**: Around £7,500 

- **4-Door Version**: Around £8,000 

These prices reflect the competitive market for sporty and stylish sedans in the early 1980s. The Audi 80 Sport was known for its performance and handling, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts. 

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Main Rivals (Price) 

In 1983, the Audi 80 Sport faced competition from several other sporty sedans. Here are the approximate new prices of its main rivals at the time: 

- **BMW 3 Series (E30)**: Around £8,500 

- **Ford Sierra XR4i**: Around £7,000 

- **Vauxhall Cavalier SRi**: Around £6,500 

- **Volkswagen Golf GTI**: Around £6,000 

These prices reflect the competitive landscape of the early 1980s, with each car offering its own unique blend of performance, style, and features. 

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Main  Rivals (Performance)

The **Audi 80 Sport (1983-1986)** was a compact executive car with a sporty edge, competing against several notable rivals in the UK. Here’s how its performance compared: **Main Rivals & Performance Comparisons** 

- **BMW 3-Series (E30, 1982-1994)** - **Engine:** 1.8L-2.5L inline-four & six-cylinder options - **Power:** 105-170 HP - **Top Speed:** ~115-130 mph - **0-60 mph:** ~8.0-10.0 sec - **Key Appeal:** Rear-wheel-drive dynamics and precise handling. 

- **Ford Sierra XR4i (1983-1985)** - **Engine:** 2.8L V6 - **Power:** 150 HP - **Top Speed:** ~130 mph - **0-60 mph:** ~7.8 sec - **Key Appeal:** Strong V6 performance with a distinctive fastback design. 

- **Alfa Romeo Alfetta GTV6 (1981-1986)** - **Engine:** 2.5L V6 - **Power:** 160 HP - **Top Speed:** ~130 mph - **0-60 mph:** ~8.0 sec - **Key Appeal:** Italian styling with a rev-happy engine. 

- **Saab 900 Turbo (1984-1993)** - **Engine:** 2.0L turbocharged inline-four - **Power:** 160 HP - **Top Speed:** ~130 mph - **0-60 mph:** ~8.5 sec - **Key Appeal:** Turbocharged power with Scandinavian durability. 

The **Audi 80 Sport** stood out with its **fuel-injected 1.8L engine**, producing **110 HP**, and a **top speed of 113 mph** GTE Specs, Performance, Comparisons - Ultimate Specs](https://www.ultimatespecs.com/car-specs/Audi/207/Audi-80-%28B2%29-GTE.html). It was praised for its **solid build quality, front-wheel-drive stability, and refined driving experience** Review | Honest John](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/audi/80cdquattro-b2/). 

You can explore more details [here](https://bing.com/search?q=Audi+80+Sport+1983-1986+UK+rivals+performance). 

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Engines 

The Audi 80 from 1983 to 1986 was offered with a variety of engines. Here are some of the options: 

1. **Petrol Engines**: - 1.3-litre (55 PS and 60 PS) - 1.5-litre (75 PS and 85 PS) - 1.6-litre - 1.8-litre - 2.0-litre 

2. **Diesel Engines**: - 1.6-litre - 1.9-litre These engines provided a range of power outputs to suit different driving preferences. 

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Performance 

The Audi 80 Sport from 1983-1986 offered impressive performance for its time. Here are some key performance figures: - **Engine**: 1.8-litre petrol engine - **Power Output**: Approximately 112 bhp (84 kW) - **Top Speed**: Around 120 mph (193 km/h) - **Acceleration**: 0-60 mph in about 9.2 seconds 

These figures made the Audi 80 Sport a competitive and enjoyable car to drive during its era. 

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Recorded in UK 2025 

As of 2025, there are approximately **46 Audi 80 Sport** models from the 1983-1986 period still licensed in the UK, with an additional **192** registered as off the road (SORN). 

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Parts Bin Engineering 

Audi shares many components across its lineup, often pulling from the **Volkswagen Group parts bin**. This strategy helps maintain cost efficiency while ensuring high-quality engineering. Here are some notable examples: 

**Shared Components** 

- **Engines** – Many Audi models use **VW Group engines**, such as the **EA888 2.0 TFSI** found in Audi, Volkswagen, Skoda, and SEAT vehicles.

- **Transmissions** – Audi shares **DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) transmissions** with Volkswagen models.

 - **Infotainment Systems** – MMI systems often incorporate **VW Group technology**, with similarities to Skoda and SEAT interfaces. 

- **Chassis & Platforms** – Audi’s **MLB Evo platform** underpins models like the **A4, A6, Q5**, while the **MQB platform** is shared with Volkswagen and Skoda. 

- **Interior Components** – Some switches, buttons, and climate control units are common across **VW, Audi, and Porsche** models. 

**Notable Examples** - The **Audi A3** shares many parts with the **VW Golf**. - The **Audi Q7** and **Bentley Bentayga** use the same **MLB Evo platform**. 

- The **Audi R8** shares components with the **Lamborghini Huracán**, including its **V10 engine**. Audi’s ability to **blend shared components with premium refinement** is a key part of its success. You can explore more about Audi’s parts-sharing approach [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/Audi/comments/qgvcwl/anytime_someone_brings_up_how_many_vw_parts_an/).

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Spares 

You can find spare parts for your Audi 80 Sport (1983-1986) at several places in the UK and Ireland. Here are some options: 

1. **[eBay](1)**: A wide range of Audi 80 spares are available, including both new and used parts. 

2. **[AutoPartsPro](2)**: Offers a comprehensive catalogue of parts for various Audi 80 models. 

3. **[Breakeryard](3)**: Provides new, used, and second-hand Audi 80 parts with delivery options. 

4. **[AutoDoc](4)**: Features a great assortment of first-class and inexpensive parts for Audi 80 models. 

5. **[123SpareParts](5)**: Specializes in spare parts for all models of the Audi 80 (81, 85, B2). These sources should help you find the parts you need to keep your classic Audi 80 Sport running smoothly. 

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Specialists NI

There are several garage services in Northern Ireland that can service your Audi 80 Sport (1983-1986). Here are a few options: 

1. **[Belfast Audi](2)**: Located at 80 Sydenham Road, Belfast, BT3 9DP. They offer a full range of Audi services and have Audi-trained technicians. 

2. **[Belfast Service Centre](3)**: Located at Units 5-7 Prince Regent Road, Belfast, BT5 6QR. They specialize in Audi servicing and repairs. 

3. **[Portadown Audi](2)**: Another official Audi dealership part of the Agnew Group, offering comprehensive Audi services. These garages should be able to provide the expertise and parts needed to keep your classic Audi 80 Sport in top condition. 

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Racing 

The Audi 80 Sport from 1983-1986 did compete in racing, particularly in rally events. One notable example is the **Audi 80 quattro** which was fielded by Audi Sport UK and David Sutton Motorsport in the 1983 British Open Rally Championship. This model was also entered in the 1984 and 1985 WRC Safari Rally. The Audi 80 quattro performed well in these competitions, showcasing Audi's innovative four-wheel-drive technology and solidifying its reputation in motorsport. 

The Audi 80 Sport, particularly the quattro variant, participated in several notable motorsport events during its era. Here are some highlights: 

1. **British Open Rally Championship (1983)**: Audi Sport UK, in partnership with David Sutton Motorsport, entered the Audi 80 quattro in all rounds of this championship. 

2. **WRC Safari Rally (1984 and 1985)**: The Audi 80 quattro was converted to "Safari-spec" and competed in the WRC Safari Rally, finishing 1st in class and 10th overall in Group A in 1984. It also participated in the 1985 event but retired while leading its class. 

3. **Goodwood Festival of Speed**: The restored Audi 80 quattro has participated in historic rally events, including the Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2017 and 2018. These events showcased the Audi 80 Sport's capabilities and helped solidify Audi's reputation in motorsport. 

Valuation

The value of a 1983-1986 Audi 80 Sport today can vary depending on its condition, mileage, and other factors. Here are some approximate values based on different conditions: 

- **Fair Condition**: £1,500 - £2,500 

- **Good Condition**: £2,500 - £4,000 

- **Excellent Condition**: £4,000 - £6,000 

- **Concours Condition**: £6,000 - £8,000 

As for the difference in value between the 2-door and 4-door versions, there isn't a significant difference in value between the two. Both versions are valued similarly, with the condition and originality of the car being the primary factors affecting its value. 

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Clubs 

There are several **Audi owner clubs** in **Northern Ireland** where enthusiasts can connect, share experiences, and attend events. Here are a few notable ones: 

**Northern Ireland Audi Owners Club (NIAOC)** - **Website:** [Northern Ireland Audi Owners Club](https://niaoc.co.uk/) - **Founded:** December 2017 - **Location:** Bangor, Co Down - **Events:** Regular meetups, charity drives, and classic car shows - **Contact:** Marc Edgar (Founder) – **+44 7928 432776** 

**Audi TT Northern Ireland** - **Facebook Group:** [Audi TT Northern Ireland](https://www.facebook.com/groups/AudiTTNorthernIreland/) - **Location:** Belfast - **Focus:** Audi TT owners and enthusiasts 

**Audi Owners Club (UK) – Northern Ireland Section** - **Forum:** [Audi Owners Club UK](https://www.audiownersclub.com/forums/topic/6186-new-in-northern-ireland/) - **Community:** Discussions, meetups, and technical advice If you're looking to join a club, **NIAOC** is one of the largest and most active Audi communities in Northern Ireland.

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HISTORY 

The **Audi 80 Sport (1983-1986)** was a performance-oriented variant of the **B2-generation Audi 80**, designed to offer a more engaging driving experience while maintaining Audi’s reputation for **quality and refinement**. 

**Origins & Development** - The **Audi 80 Sport** was introduced in **1983** as a **sportier version** of the standard Audi 80, featuring **styling enhancements and improved performance**. - It was positioned as a **competitor to BMW’s E30 3-Series**, offering **front-wheel drive stability** and a **fuel-injected engine**. 

- Audi refined the **B2-generation 80** with **better aerodynamics and upgraded suspension**, making the Sport model more dynamic. **Technical Highlights** 

- **Engine:** 1.8L inline-four, producing **110 HP**. - **Transmission:** 5-speed manual. - **Top Speed:** ~113 mph. - **0-60 mph:** ~9.5 sec. - **Weight:** ~1,000 kg, contributing to its nimble handling. 

*Design & Features** - The **Sport model** featured **distinctive alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, and sport seats**. 

- Audi introduced **fuel injection**, improving throttle response and efficiency. 

- The **quattro AWD system** was available on higher-performance variants, enhancing grip and stability. 

**Legacy & Impact** 

- The **Audi 80 Sport** helped establish Audi’s reputation for **sporty yet practical sedans**, paving the way for later models like the **Audi 90 and A4**. 

- It remains a **cult classic among enthusiasts**, appreciated for its **solid build quality and engaging driving dynamics**. - The **B2-generation Audi 80** was eventually replaced by the **B3 model in 1986**, marking the next evolution in Audi’s compact executive lineup. Would you say the **Audi 80 Sport** deserved more recognition among classic performance sedans? You can explore more about its history [here](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_80). 

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