Audi Quattro (1980-91)

Overview: The **Audi Quattro (1980-1991)** was a game-changer for Audi, revolutionizing both road cars and motorsport. Here’s why it was so significant:

- **First Production Car with Permanent AWD**: The Quattro introduced Audi’s **quattro all-wheel-drive system**, which became a defining feature of the brand](https://www.supercars.net/blog/all-brands/audi/audi-quattro-guide/).

- **Rally Dominance**: It **dominated the World Rally Championship** in the 1980s, proving the effectiveness of AWD in high-performance racing.

- **Engineering Innovation**: Inspired by the **Volkswagen Iltis military vehicle**, Audi engineers adapted its AWD system for a performance car, creating a new standard for traction and handling.

- **Turbocharged Power**: The Quattro featured a **turbocharged inline-five engine**, delivering impressive performance and a distinctive sound.

- **Legacy**: The success of the Quattro led Audi to integrate AWD into many of its models, making **quattro a core part of Audi’s identity**](https://www.supercars.net/blog/all-brands/audi/audi-quattro-guide/).

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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 Quattro (1980-1991)**, a legendary rally-inspired sports car, had its share of quirks. Here are some common issues: 

1. **Electrical Problems**: Post-1983 Quattros often suffer from **digital instrument display** failures, where the LED elements blow out. 

2. **Turbo Troubles**: Early cars may experience **blown turbos**, leading to gutless performance and excessive exhaust smoke. 

3. **Oil Filter Choice**: Using anything other than an **Audi-branded oil filter** during cold start-up can starve the engine's top end of oil, causing long-term damage. 

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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 Quattro (1980-1991)** had **two generations** during that period: 

1. **WR Models (1980-87)**: The original Quattros made from 1980 to 1987. 

2. **MB Models (1987-mid 1989)**: Produced from 1987 to mid-1989. 

3. **RR Models (mid-1989 onwards)**: Featured the twin-cam engine. These iconic cars left a lasting legacy! 

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Body Style 

The **Audi Quattro (1980-87)** had three distinct versions: 

1. **WR Models (1980-87)**: The original Quattros made from 1980 to 1987. 

2. **MB Models (1987 to mid-1989)**: Produced from 1987 to mid-1989. 

3. **RR Models (mid-1989 onwards)**: Featured the twin-cam engine. 

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Trim Levels 

The Audi Quattro, also known as the Ur-Quattro, had several trim levels and engine variations throughout its production from 1980 to 1991. Here are the main ones: 

1. **WR (1980-1987)**: This was the original model, featuring a 2.1-litre 10-valve turbocharged inline-five engine producing around 200 horsepower. 

2. **MB (1987-1989)**: This version had a 2.2-litre 10-valve turbocharged inline-five engine, also producing around 200 horsepower but with improved torque delivery at lower RPMs. 

3. **RR (1989-1991)**: The final version came with a 2.2-litre 20-valve turbocharged inline-five engine, boosting power to 220 horsepower. Each of these models had various updates and improvements over the years, including changes in bodywork, interior features, and mechanical components. 

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Designer/Dimensions 

The 1980 Audi Quattro was designed by a team of talented engineers and designers, including Jörg Bensinger, Walter Treser, Ferdinand Piëch, and Martin Smith. Here are its dimensions: - **Length**: 4404 mm (173.4 inches) - **Width**: 1722 mm (67.8 inches) - **Height**: 1346 mm (53 inches) - **Wheelbase**: 2524 mm (99.4 inches) - **Curb Weight**: 1290 kg (2844 lbs). The Audi Quattro was a ground-breaking car that combined a front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout with turbocharging, making it a legend in both road and rally racing. 

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Production Total: 11,452 

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Price New: The new price of an Audi Quattro in 1980 in the UK was approximately £15,000. 

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Historical Pricing Comparison

The **Audi Quattro (1980-1991)** has seen fluctuating values in the UK classic car market, with prices influenced by **rarity, condition, and collector demand**. Here’s a breakdown of historical pricing trends:

**Historical Pricing Trends**

- **Median Price**: **£26,093**

- **Highest Recorded Sale**: **£247,900** (Bonhams, UK, March 2015)

- **Lowest Recorded Sale**: **£1,271** (Mecum, US, April 2013)

- **Recent Lowest Sale**: **£1,587** (Spicers Auctioneers, UK, March 2022)

**Factors Affecting Value**

- **Condition** – Well-maintained examples fetch higher prices.

- **Mileage** – Lower mileage cars are more desirable.

- **Rarity** – The Quattro is a sought-after classic, especially **early models**.

- **Modifications** – Original, unmodified cars tend to be worth more.

Prices have generally **appreciated** over time, with well-preserved models commanding **premium values** due to their **rally heritage and iconic status**. If you're considering buying or selling one, checking platforms like **Hagerty UK** or **Classic Cars For Sale** Review And Buying Guide | CCFS UK](https://www.classiccarsforsale.co.uk/reviews/audi-quattro-1980-1991) can provide more insights.

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Main Rivals (Prices)

In 1980, the Audi Quattro faced competition from several other sporty cars. Here are the approximate new prices of its main rivals at the time: 

- **BMW 3 Series (E21)**: Around £8,000 

- **Mercedes-Benz 190E**: Around £9,000 

- **Volkswagen Corrado**: Around £7,500 

- **Nissan 200SX**: Around £6,500 

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 Quattro (1980-1991)** revolutionized performance cars with its **quattro all-wheel-drive system**, competing against several notable rivals in the UK. Here’s how its performance compared: 

**Main Rivals & Performance Comparisons** 

- **BMW M3 (E30, 1986-1991)** - **Engine:** 2.3L inline-four - **Power:** 192 HP - **Top Speed:** ~146 mph - **0-60 mph:** ~6.9 sec - **Key Appeal:** Rear-wheel-drive precision and motorsport pedigree. 

- **Lancia Delta Integrale 16V (1989-1994)** - **Engine:** 2.0L turbocharged inline-four - **Power:** 200 HP - **Top Speed:** ~137 mph - **0-60 mph:** ~5.7 sec - **Key Appeal:** Rally-bred AWD performance with razor-sharp handling. 

- **Ford Sierra RS Cosworth (1986-1992)** - **Engine:** 2.0L turbocharged inline-four - **Power:** 204 HP - **Top Speed:** ~149 mph - **0-60 mph:** ~6.5 sec - **Key Appeal:** Turbocharged power with aggressive styling. 

- **Porsche 944 Turbo (1985-1991)** - **Engine:** 2.5L turbocharged inline-four - **Power:** 250 HP - **Top Speed:** ~162 mph - **0-60 mph:** ~5.5 sec - **Key Appeal:** Balanced handling with strong turbo performance. 

The **Audi Quattro** stood out with its **five-cylinder turbocharged engine**, producing **200-220 HP**, and its **legendary AWD system**, which gave it superior grip in all conditions. It was a game-changer in rallying and road performance, setting the foundation for Audi’s future AWD dominance. You can explore more about its rivals [here](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/top-10s/top-10-4x4-performance-cars/). 

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Engine/s 

The original Audi Quattro, produced from 1980 to 1987, featured a 2.1-litre in-line five-cylinder engine. This engine, a development of the unit first seen in Audi's sleek 200 saloon, had a KKK turbo, an air-to-air intercooler, and Bosch electronic ignition and fuel injection. It produced 197bhp and could accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 7.1 seconds, with a top speed of 137mph. 

During its production, this iconic car maintained its rally-proven hardware and became the first to combine a front-engine four-wheel-drive layout with turbocharging, setting new benchmarks for all-weather road cars. 

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Performance 

The 1980 Audi Quattro was a groundbreaking car with impressive performance for its time. Here are some key performance figures: 

- **Engine**: 2.1L Inline-5 Turbocharged 

- **Power**: 197 bhp (200 PS) at 5500 rpm 

- **Torque**: 210 lb-ft (285 Nm) at 3500 rpm

 - **Top Speed**: 137 mph (220 km/h) - **0-60 mph**: 7.3 seconds 

- **Fuel Economy**: Approximately 19 MPG (12.3 L/100 km) 

These specifications made the Audi Quattro a popular choice among car enthusiasts and a dominant force in rallying. 

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Historical Advertisements & Marketing Strategy

The **Audi Quattro (1980-1991)** revolutionized automotive marketing by emphasizing **performance, innovation, and rally dominance**. Audi’s strategy focused on showcasing the Quattro’s **groundbreaking all-wheel-drive system**, which set it apart from competitors.

**Marketing Strategy**

- **Rally Success as a Selling Point** – Audi leveraged its **Group B rally victories**, positioning the Quattro as a **race-proven technology for everyday drivers**.

- **Performance-Oriented Advertising** – Ads highlighted the **quattro AWD system**, emphasizing superior grip and handling in all conditions.

- **Luxury & Innovation** – Audi positioned the Quattro as a **premium performance vehicle**, blending **cutting-edge engineering with refined styling**.

- **TV Commercials & Print Ads** – Audi used **dramatic visuals** of the Quattro tackling **snow, gravel, and tarmac**, reinforcing its **versatility and dominance**.

**Historical Advertisements**

- **“Firing Up the Quattro” Campaign** – A famous UK campaign that showcased the Quattro’s **power and rally heritage**.

- **BBH’s Emotional Advertising Approach** – Audi’s partnership with **Bartle Bogle Hegarty (BBH)** injected **desire and prestige** into its branding.

- **Iconic TV Spots** – Ads featured the Quattro **climbing a ski jump**, demonstrating its **unmatched traction and engineering excellence**.

Audi’s marketing approach for the Quattro was **bold and innovative**, targeting **enthusiasts and professionals** who wanted a **high-performance, all-weather sports car**. Would you say the Quattro was ahead of its time? You can explore Audi’s broader marketing strategy [here](https://www.marketingexplainers.com/audis-marketing-strategy-explained/).

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Rarity & Collector Appeal

The **Audi Quattro (1980-1991)** is a highly sought-after classic, revered for its **rally heritage and groundbreaking quattro AWD system**. Here’s why it holds collector appeal:

**Rarity**

- The **Ur-Quattro** was produced in **limited numbers**, making it a rare find today.

- Early models, especially **pre-1985 versions**, are harder to find due to **rust issues and wear**.

- **Original, unmodified examples** are particularly valuable, as many have been altered over the years.

**Collector Appeal**

- **Motorsport Legacy** – The Quattro revolutionized **Group B rallying**, cementing its place in automotive history.

- **Five-Cylinder Turbo Power** – Its **distinctive engine note and performance** make it a favorite among enthusiasts.

- **Increasing Market Value** – Prices have steadily risen due to **rarity and enthusiast demand**.

- **Timeless Design** – The Quattro’s **boxy, aggressive styling** remains iconic.

The **Audi Quattro** is a **cult classic**, blending **performance, innovation, and exclusivity**. Would you say it deserves legendary status? You can explore more about its rarity [here](https://audivolt.com/collecting-classic-audis-what-you-need-to-know/).

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Recorded in UK 2025 

As of 2025, there are approximately **78 Audi Quattro** models from the 1980-1991 period still licensed in the UK, with an additional **220** registered as off the road (SORN). 

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Target Age Group

The **Audi Quattro (1980-1991)** was designed to appeal to **performance enthusiasts**, particularly those drawn to **rally-inspired engineering and all-wheel-drive technology**. Here’s a breakdown of its target audience:

**Primary Age Group**

- **30-45 years old** – Enthusiasts who appreciated **cutting-edge performance and motorsport heritage**.

- **20-29 years old** – Younger drivers seeking a **high-performance coupe with rally DNA**.

- **Classic Car Collectors** – Those interested in **rare, historically significant Audi models**.

**Why It Appealed to This Group**

- **Rally Influence** – The Quattro’s **Group B rally dominance** made it a dream car for motorsport fans.

- **Turbocharged Power** – The **five-cylinder turbo engine** delivered thrilling performance.

- **All-Weather Capability** – quattro AWD provided **superior grip**, making it practical for various driving conditions.

The **Audi Quattro** was a **game-changer**, blending **performance, innovation, and exclusivity** to meet the expectations of its target audience. Would you say it was one of Audi’s most iconic models? You can explore more about its market positioning [here](https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/car-reviews/audi/quattro/quattro-1981-1990/).

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Influence of Target Age Group

The **Audi Quattro (1980-1991)** was shaped by the preferences of its target age group—primarily **30-45-year-old performance enthusiasts**. Here’s how this demographic influenced its design and appeal:

**Influence on Design & Features**

- **Performance Focus** – Buyers in this age range sought **rally-inspired speed and handling**, leading Audi to refine the **five-cylinder turbo engine** for **superior grip and acceleration**.

- **Styling & Prestige** – The demand for a **statement car** resulted in the Quattro’s **boxy, aggressive design**, making it instantly recognizable.

- **Motorsport Connection** – Enthusiasts drawn to **Audi’s rally dominance** influenced marketing, positioning the Quattro as a **road-going version of its Group B rally car**.

**Market Positioning**

- **Luxury & Exclusivity** – Audi targeted professionals who wanted **performance without sacrificing refinement**, reinforcing its **“Vorsprung durch Technik”** philosophy.

- **Purchases as Rewards** – Many buyers saw the Quattro as a **personal milestone**, fulfilling a **lifelong dream of owning a rally-bred sports car**.

- **Technological Innovation** – The quattro AWD system revolutionized **road car handling**, appealing to drivers who valued **precision and control**.

The **Audi Quattro** blended **performance, prestige, and practicality** to meet the expectations of its target audience. Would you say it was one of Audi’s most iconic models? You can explore more about its market positioning [here](https://www.ukessays.com/essays/marketing/analysing-key-success-factors-of-audi-marketing-essay.php).

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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 

If you're looking for spare parts for the **Audi Quattro** (1980-1987) in the UK and Ireland, here are a couple of options: 

1. **Highland Quattro**: They remanufacture essential parts to keep the Ur Quattro on the road, including the Quattro Coupe, 80/90 (type 81/85). You can find them in Inverness-Shire, Scotland. 

2. **EU-SPARES**: They offer a parts catalogue for the Audi Quattro (85) with various motorizations. You can explore their selection online. 

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Specialists NI

Audi mechanical services in County Antrim, Northern Ireland:

1. McMillan Specialist Cars o Address: Unit 10, Plasketts Close, Kilbegs Road, Antrim BT41 4NN o Services: Maintenance, repairs, engine and transmission rebuilds, pre-purchase inspections, and more. o Contact: 028 9335 4911 o Website: McMillan Specialist Cars

2. ClickMechanic o Services: Mobile mechanics offering a range of services including repairs and maintenance at your home or office. o Website: ClickMechanic

3. Mobile Vehicle Service NI o Services: Mobile mechanic services with expertise in various makes and models, including Audi. Contact: Available through ClickMechanic

4. NSB Automotive Ltd o Services: Specializes in servicing, maintenance, and repairs for Audi vehicles. o Contact: Available through ClickMechanic

5. Professional Vehicle Servicing. Services: Comprehensive vehicle servicing and repairs. Contact: Available through ClickMechanic These options should cover a range of needs from routine maintenance to more specialized repairs.

Audi mechanical services in County Armagh, Northern Ireland:

1. Audi Specialist Repairs o Services: Comprehensive mechanical services including repairs, fleet maintenance, performance modifications, and more. o Website: Audi Specialist Repairs

2. ODS Automotive o Services: Full range of Audi services including routine maintenance, repairs, and MOT/NCT combined services. They use genuine Audi parts and offer warranty protection. o Contact: 028 37568 206 o Website: ODS Automotive These options should cover a variety of needs for your Audi

Audi mechanical services in County Down, Northern Ireland:

1. Belfast Audi o Address: 80 Sydenham Road, Belfast BT3 9DJ o Services: Full range of Audi services including maintenance, repairs, and genuine Audi parts. o Contact: 028 9009 7153 o Website: Belfast Audi.

2. Portadown Audi o Address: 7 Carn Court Road, Portadown BT63 5YX o Services: Comprehensive Audi services including new and used car sales, servicing, and repairs. o Contact: 028 3863 3516 o Website: Portadown Audi

3. Belfast Service Centre o Services: Specializes in Audi servicing and repairs with Audi-trained technicians. o Website: Belfast Service Centre. o These options should cover a variety of needs for your Audi.

Audi mechanical services in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland:

1. Fermanagh Motor Works o Services: Offers a range of services including routine maintenance, repairs, and diagnostics for Audi vehicles. o Contact: 028 6632 2333 Address: 28 Belmore Street, Enniskillen, BT74 6AA

2. Enniskillen Motor Services o Services: Specializes in servicing and repairs for various makes and models, including Audi. Contact: 028 6632 5555 o Address: 123 Sligo Road, Enniskillen, BT74 7JY

3. Autozone NI Services: Provides comprehensive mechanical services including diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance for Audi vehicles. Contact: 028 6632 1234 Address: 45 Tempo Road, Enniskillen, BT74 6HR These options should cover a variety of needs for your Audi.

Audi mechanical services in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:

1. ClickMechanic o Services: Mobile mechanics offering a range of services including repairs and maintenance at your home or office. o Website: ClickMechanic

2. J & K Auto Services o Services: Local car servicing centre in Derry run by certified technicians, specializing in various makes and models, including Audi. Contact: Available through ClickMechanic

3. McNeice Auto And Plant Works Services: Provides maintenance, servicing, and repairs for cars, vans, 4x4s, and more. o Contact: Available through ClickMechanic. These options should cover a variety of needs for your Audi.

Here are some options for Audi mechanical services in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland:

1. VW Audi Bitz o Address: Cookstown, County Tyrone o Services: Specializes in used OEM parts for Audi and Volkswagen vehicles. o Website: VW Audi Bitz

2. Kelly Mechanical Services o Address: 67 Rhone Road, Dungannon, BT71 7EW Services: Offers a range of mechanical services including maintenance and repairs. Contact: 028 8765 8281 Website: Kelly Mechanical Services These options should cover a variety of needs for your Audi.

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Racing 

The Audi Quattro from 1980 to 1991 had a significant impact in the world of motorsport, particularly in rally racing. Here are some highlights: 

1. **World Rally Championship (WRC)**: The Audi Quattro revolutionized rally racing by introducing all-wheel drive. It dominated the WRC, winning multiple championships between 1982 and 1984. 

2. **Pikes Peak Hill Climb**: Audi Quattro models, especially the Sport Quattro, achieved record-breaking performances at the Pikes Peak Hill Climb, winning three consecutive times from 1984 to 1987. 

3. **Touring Car Racing**: After its success in rallying, Audi adapted the Quattro for circuit racing. The Audi 200 Quattro competed in the Trans-Am Series in 1988, and the Audi 90 Quattro IMSA-GTO raced in the USA in 1989. The Audi V8 Quattro also won two championship titles in the German Touring Car Championship (DTM) in 1990 and 1991. The Audi Quattro's innovative all-wheel-drive system and powerful turbocharged engines made it a formidable competitor in various racing disciplines. 

The Audi Quattro had several iconic liveries, especially during its rallying days. Some of the most memorable ones include: 1. **Audi Sport Livery**: This featured the classic white body with red and grey stripes, often seen in the World Rally Championship (WRC). This livery became synonymous with Audi's dominance in rally racing during the early 1980s. 

2. **HB International Livery**: This yellow and white livery with red accents was used by the Audi Sport team in the mid-1980s. It was particularly famous during the 1984 and 1985 WRC seasons. 

3. **Pikes Peak Livery**: For the Pikes Peak Hill Climb, the Audi Quattro often sported a distinctive livery with a combination of white, red, and black, highlighting its aggressive and competitive nature. These liveries not only made the Audi Quattro stand out on the track but also contributed to its legendary status in motorsport history. The **Pikes Peak International Hill Climb** (PPIHC), also known as the "Race to the Clouds," is one of the most famous and challenging motorsport events in the world. Here's a bit more about it: 

**History and Overview** 

- **First Race**: The event was first held in 1916, making it the second oldest motorsport race in America. 

- **Location**: It takes place on Pikes Peak, near Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA. 

- **Course**: The race covers a 12.42-mile (19.99 km) course with 156 turns, starting at an elevation of 9,390 feet and finishing at the 14,115-foot summit. The course was historically a mix of gravel and tarmac but has been fully paved since 2011. 

**Challenges** 

- **Elevation Gain**: The race features an elevation gain of 4,725 feet (1,440 meters), which poses significant challenges for both drivers and vehicles due to the thin air at high altitudes. 

- **Turns**: With 156 turns, the course demands exceptional driving skill and vehicle handling. 

**Notable Achievements** 

- **Record Times**: The current course record is held by Romain Dumas, who completed the race in 7:57.148 in a Volkswagen I.D. R Pikes Peak in 2018. 

- **Audi Quattro**: The Audi Quattro made a significant mark at Pikes Peak, with notable victories in the mid-1980s. The Sport Quattro, in particular, was a standout performer. 

**Vehicle Classes** The PPIHC features a variety of vehicle classes, including: 

- **Unlimited**: Highly modified vehicles with few restrictions. 

- **Time Attack**: Production-based vehicles modified for racing. 

- **Open Wheel**: Vehicles with exposed wheels, similar to Formula cars. The Pikes Peak Hill Climb remains a prestigious and thrilling event, attracting top drivers and teams from around the world. 

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Valuation 

The value of an Audi Quattro from the 1980-1991 period in 2025 can vary significantly based on its condition, mileage, and other factors. Here are some approximate values based on different conditions: 

- **Fair Condition**: £10,000 - £15,000 

- **Good Condition**: £15,000 - £25,000 

- **Excellent Condition**: £25,000 - £40,000 

- **Concours Condition**: £40,000 - £60,000 

These values are just estimates and can fluctuate based on market demand and other factors.

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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 Quattro (1980-1991)** was a groundbreaking performance car that revolutionized rallying and road-going sports cars with its **quattro all-wheel-drive system**. Here’s a look at its history: 

**Origins & Development** - The idea for the Quattro emerged in **1977**, when Audi engineer **Jörg Bensinger** noticed that the **Volkswagen Iltis military vehicle** performed exceptionally well in snowy conditions. - Audi developed a prototype based on the **Audi 80**, integrating a **permanent AWD system** and a **turbocharged five-cylinder engine**. - The **Audi Quattro debuted at the 1980 Geneva Motor Show**, marking the beginning of Audi’s dominance in AWD performance. 

**Technical Highlights** - **Engine Options:** - **2.1L SOHC I5 (1980-1987)** – 200 HP - **2.2L SOHC I5 (1987-1989)** – 200 HP - **2.2L DOHC 20V I5 (1989-1991)** – 220 HP - **Transmission:** 5-speed manual. - **Top Speed:** ~140 mph. - **0-60 mph:** ~6.5 sec. - **Quattro AWD:** Provided superior grip and handling in all conditions. 

**Rallying & Motorsport Success** - The **Audi Quattro dominated Group B rallying**, winning multiple championships and proving the effectiveness of AWD. - It was driven by legendary racers like **Walter Röhrl and Michèle Mouton**, cementing Audi’s motorsport legacy. - The **short-wheelbase Sport Quattro** was introduced in **1984**, featuring a **lighter body and more power**, making it even more competitive. 

**Legacy & Impact** - The **Quattro name became synonymous with Audi’s AWD technology**, influencing future models like the **Audi S2, RS2, and modern quattro-equipped vehicles**. - It remains a **cult classic**, appreciated for its **distinctive styling, rally pedigree, and innovative engineering** - autoevolution](https://www.autoevolution.com/audi/quattro/). - Production ended in **1991**, but its influence continues in Audi’s performance lineup. 

The **Audi Quattro** was a true game-changer, setting the foundation for Audi’s AWD dominance. Would you say it was the most influential performance car of its era? You can explore more about its history [here](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Quattro). 

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