Model Generation:
Third Generation (C3)
Model Years Covered:
1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991
Engine Codes Common:
WC, WX, RT, PS, RU, KG, MC, HP, NP, 3B (for 200/quattro models which may overlap in this generation's technical service information)
Segment:
Executive Car / Large Family Car
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts.
Competitors:
BMW 5 Series (E28), Mercedes-Benz W124, Volvo 240/740, Saab 9000, Ford Scorpio.
Design:
Aerodynamic 'biodynamic' design penned by Hartmut Warkuß, known for its low drag coefficient. Available in sedan and avant (wagon) body styles.
Technology:
Pioneering use of galvanized steel bodywork for corrosion resistance, advanced quattro all-wheel-drive system, and innovative Procon-ten safety system (early form of pre-tensioned seatbelts and airbag precursor).
Reputation:
Known for build quality, comfort, and advanced technology for its era, especially with the quattro drivetrain.
Powertrain:
Engine overhaul, fuel injection systems (K-Jetronic, KE-Jetronic, CIS-E), ignition systems, exhaust systems, engine cooling systems, lubrication systems.
Drivetrain:
Manual and automatic transmissions (e.g., 016, 095, 099), front-wheel drive (FWD), quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) system components, drive shafts, CV joints, differentials.
Chassis:
Front and rear suspension (McPherson struts, independent rear suspension), steering systems (power steering), brake systems (disc and drum, ABS if applicable to specific models), wheel bearings.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, lighting systems, starter motor, alternator, battery, instrument cluster, power windows, central locking, climate control electronics.
Bodywork:
Body panel repair and replacement, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim removal and installation, sealing and weatherstripping.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance checks, oil and filter changes, coolant flushes, spark plug replacement, belt tensioning and replacement, brake pad inspection.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, electrical faults, starting problems, and performance degradation. Includes diagnostic procedures for fuel injection and ignition systems.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper rebuilding, suspension component replacement, and electrical component repair.
Adjustments:
Valve lash adjustment (if applicable), ignition timing adjustments, idle speed control, clutch adjustment, brake system bleeding.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostic procedures and detailed torque specifications.
Engine Type:
Inline-5 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated and Turbocharged
Displacement Range:
2.0L to 2.3L (2144cc for many common variants)
Horsepower Range:
90 hp (100) to 165 hp (100 CS quattro, 200 turbo)
Torque Range:
148 Nm to 245 Nm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch K-Jetronic, KE-Jetronic, CIS-E (CIS-Electronic) Fuel Injection Systems, some models with Carburetors in early markets.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Typically every 60,000 to 90,000 miles (96,000 to 145,000 km) or 4-5 years, depending on specific engine and climate. Consult manual for exact interval.
Engine Block Material:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Transmission Type Early:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Late:
3-Speed and 4-Speed Automatic Transmissions (e.g., ZF 4HP22)
Quattro AWD:
Center viscous coupling differential and rear differential in quattro models.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Consult manual for specific fill quantities.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III / Mercon equivalent (or specified Audi fluid). Consult manual for specific fill quantities.
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan, 5-door Avant (Wagon)
Curb Weight Range:
1200 kg - 1500 kg (approximate, depending on engine and drivetrain)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Refer to vehicle placard (typically 1800-2000 kg)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x112 mm
Common Tire Sizes:
175/70 R14, 185/70 R14, 195/65 R15 (depending on trim and year)
Crash Test Data:
Era-specific safety standards. No standardized crash ratings like modern NHTSA/Euro NCAP available for this period.
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear discs or drums. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trims and later models.
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts. Procon-ten system on some models.
Body Construction:
Unit-body construction with extensive use of galvanized steel for corrosion resistance. Reinforced safety cage.
Audio System:
Factory-installed cassette players or push-button radios, often with optional amplifiers and premium speaker systems.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) became increasingly common on later models and higher trims, offering improved stopping control.
Power Features:
Power windows, power mirrors, and central locking were common options or standard on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control was available on many models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 km or 6 months for conventional oil. Synthetic oil may extend this interval. Always refer to the specific model year and engine recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 km or annually, or more frequently in dusty conditions.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH, ACEA A2/A3. Viscosity typically 10W-40 or 5W-40 (check manual for specific engine requirements).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 - 5.0 liters for most 5-cylinder engines (including filter). Consult manual.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (e.g., G11). Diluted 50/50 with distilled water.
Fuel System Durability:
K-Jetronic/KE-Jetronic systems can be sensitive to dirt and fuel quality, potentially leading to uneven running or starting issues. Rebuild kits for fuel distributors and cold start valves are available.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring harnesses, especially in the engine bay and door jambs, can degrade, leading to intermittent electrical faults. Common areas include sensor wiring and door lock actuators.
Suspension Wear:
Wear in bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends is common due to age and mileage, leading to steering looseness or knocking sounds.
Climate Control:
HVAC blower motor resistors, vacuum actuators for blend doors, and refrigerant leaks in the A/C system are common failure points.
Parts Status:
Many common wear items are still available from aftermarket suppliers. Specialized parts or trim pieces may require sourcing from specialized Audi parts dealers or salvage yards.
Audi Legacy:
Audi has a long history of engineering innovation, particularly with its pioneering quattro all-wheel-drive system and front-wheel-drive technology.
C3 Development:
The C3 generation Audi 100 (introduced in late 1982 for the 1983 model year) was a significant departure from its predecessor, featuring a more aerodynamic and modern design. It laid the groundwork for the Audi 100/A6 lineage.
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform and technologies with the Audi 200 and early Audi V8 models. The quattro system was a key differentiator.
Production Period:
1982-1991 (for the C3 generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Ingolstadt)
