Segment:
Executive Sedan/Wagon
Competitors:
BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Volvo 740/940
Design:
Aerodynamic 'Tear Drop' Design, Audi Space Frame (ASF) precursor elements
Drivetrain:
Available quattro AWD system was a significant differentiator
Engineering:
German engineering, focus on build quality and comfort
Engine:
All Engine Variants (e.g., 2.3L 5-cylinder)
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmissions
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and quattro All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Suspension:
Front and Rear Suspension Systems
Brakes:
Brake System Components and Service
Steering:
Power Steering System
Electrical:
Complete Electrical Schematics and Component Testing
Body And Chassis:
Bodywork, Doors, Windows, and Chassis
Climate Control:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
Fuel System:
Fuel Injection System (CIS-E, KE-Jetronic)
Exhaust System:
Exhaust System Components and Repair
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics
Repair:
Component Removal, Disassembly, Assembly, and Installation
Rebuilds:
Engine, Transmission, and Major Component Rebuild Procedures
Adjustments:
Alignment, Valve Clearances, Fuel System Adjustments
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Fluid Capacities
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds)
Engine Code:
JN, NF, KU, AAN (example variants)
Configuration:
Inline 5-Cylinder (typically)
Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2309 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 130-140 hp (naturally aspirated), 165 hp (turbocharged 20v in later models/S4)
Torque:
Approx. 137-150 lb-ft
Injection Type:
Bosch CIS-E (Continuous Injection System - Electronic) or KE-Jetronic
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
System:
Electronic Ignition
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM Cassette Stereo System, often with premium options available.
ABS:
ABS availability as mentioned in safety.
Features:
Basic for its era; focus was on mechanical engineering and comfort, not extensive electronic connectivity.
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, consult manual for exact specification.
Timing Belt:
Crucial replacement interval, often around 60,000 miles or 5 years. **Extremely important for 5-cylinder engines.**
Engine Oil:
Typically 5W-40 or 10W-40 synthetic, refer to manual for specific viscosity and API rating.
Coolant:
G11 (Blue) or G12 (Red) Antifreeze/Coolant (check manual for correct type).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron III or equivalent automatic transmission fluid.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.
Electrical System:
Degradation of wiring insulation, failing dashboard components (e.g., VDO gauges), door lock actuators.
Fuel System:
CIS-E issues, failing fuel accumulators or pressure regulators, injector seal leaks.
Engine:
Timing belt failure (catastrophic), coolant leaks from plastic components, valve cover gasket leaks.
Suspension:
Worn ball joints, control arm bushings, and strut mounts.
