🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Audi Model: 80 Model Code: B3-89 Year: 1989 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact Executive Car Competitive Analysis Key Competitors Era: BMW 3 Series...
Unleaded Premium (91+ Octane typically recommended)
Engine Management
ECU Type:
Early electronic engine control unit (ECU) for fuel and ignition timing
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type Manual:
5-Speed Manual
Optional
Type Automatic:
3-Speed or 4-Speed Automatic
Features
Drive Type Standard:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Drive Type Optional:
quattro All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Fluid Requirements
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (check manual for specific viscosity)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
G 052 162 A2 or equivalent ATF (check manual for exact spec)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan, 5-door Avant (Wagon), 2-door Coupe
Wheelbase Typical:
2500 mm (approx.)
Length Typical:
4340 mm (approx.)
Width Typical:
1690 mm (approx.)
Height Typical:
1390 mm (approx.)
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
1100 - 1300 kg (approx., depending on model and options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Refer to vehicle placard or manual
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Era Standards:
Tested under early safety standards; Euro NCAP did not exist in its modern form.
Active Features
ABS Availability:
Optional on some models
Traction Control Availability:
Rarely available, typically associated with quattro systems on later models
Passive Features
Airbags Driver:
Optional on some models, becoming more common towards the end of the B3 generation
Seatbelts:
Standard front seatbelts with pre-tensioners on some later models
Chassis Construction:
Unitary body construction with integrated safety cage
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Radio System:
Factory fitted radio/cassette players with optional amplifier systems.
Speaker Configuration:
Typically 2 or 4 speakers, with options for more in higher trims or premium sound systems.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Optional, as noted in safety section
Connectivity
Pre Bluetooth Era:
No integrated Bluetooth or advanced connectivity features typical of modern vehicles.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km or 12 months (whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 km or 24 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 km (platinum-tipped spark plugs may have longer intervals)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 90,000 km or 5-6 years (critical for interference engines; refer to manual)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2-96, Viscosity SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40 (consult manual for exact specification and ambient temperature suitability)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 - 4.5 Liters (depending on engine variant)
Coolant Type:
G11 coolant (blue/green) or equivalent ethylene glycol based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (ensure compliance with vehicle specification)
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Fuel distributor issues (Jetronic systems), water pump leaks, cooling fan issues, electrical gremlins (corroded grounds/connectors), rust in common areas (wheel arches, sills).
Engine Wear:
Valve stem seals can deteriorate, leading to oil consumption.
Suspension Wear:
Control arm bushings and ball joints are common wear items.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Audi History Context:
Audi AG, a German manufacturer, part of the Volkswagen Group, known for engineering and innovation.
Model Evolution
B3 Generation Introduction:
Introduced in 1986 as the successor to the Audi 80 B2 (Type 81).
B3 Design Philosophy:
Marked a significant design shift with a more aerodynamic and modern 'jelly mould' style, featuring integrated bumpers and flush glazing.
B3 Key Innovations:
Widespread use of galvanized steel for corrosion resistance, introduction of quattro AWD system to the mainstream Audi lineup.
Production
Production Period:
1986-1991 (for B3 generation)
Production Location
Assembly Plants:
Ingolstadt, Germany; Brussels, Belgium
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Historical Accolades:
The Audi 80 B3 series received praise for its build quality and refined ride for its era.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Era:
While specific reports for the 1989 model are scarce, the series was generally considered a solid, reliable option in the compact executive class.