Vehicle Segment:
Compact Executive/Small Family Car
Brand Perception:
Audi 80 B3 represented Audi's commitment to quality engineering, comfortable interiors, and refined driving dynamics within its class.
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E30), Mercedes-Benz 190E (W201), Opel Vectra A, Ford Sierra, Volkswagen Passat B3.
Design:
Aerodynamic styling, advanced galvanized steel unibody construction, high safety standards for its era.
Engineering:
Front-wheel drive bias with optional Quattro AWD, independent suspension, focus on driver comfort and stability.
Diy Suitability:
Written for both DIY enthusiasts and experienced mechanics, offering clear, detailed instructions.
Cost Effectiveness:
Inexpensive way to maintain and repair the vehicle, saving on dealership service costs.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU).
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission overhaul, diagnosis, and repair.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, driveshafts, CV joints, differentials.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, shock absorbers, springs, bushings.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum), hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped).
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, lighting, starter, alternator, battery, instrument cluster, comfort systems.
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, mirrors, bumpers, interior trim, climate control system.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults, fault codes (OBD I), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including complete disassembly and reassembly.
Diagnostics:
Engine performance diagnostics, electrical system troubleshooting, emissions system analysis.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed engine, transmission, and differential rebuild procedures with torque specifications and tolerances.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Format Details:
Searchable PDF, enabling quick access to specific information.
Print Quality:
High-resolution, clear illustrations and text suitable for printing.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital download, printing and binding is user's responsibility).
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital download).
Completeness Statement:
100% complete and intact, covering all factory service and repair information.
Engine Family:
VW EA827 (later developed into the EA831)
Common Engine Variants:
1.6L (73-75 hp), 1.8L (75-90 hp), 2.0L (113-115 hp), 2.3L 5-cylinder (130-133 hp), 2.2L Diesel (70 hp), 2.4L Diesel (70-82 hp).
Engine Layout:
Inline-4 and Inline-5 configurations
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (early models) and Bosch KE-Jetronic/Digifant fuel injection.
Top Speed:
Varies by engine; typically 170-210 km/h (105-130 mph).
Acceleration 0 100Kmh:
Varies by engine; typically 9-14 seconds.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 91/95/98) and Diesel.
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
3-speed or 4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., ZF 4HPxx series)
AWD Option:
Optional Audi Quattro all-wheel drive system.
Manual Fluid Type:
GL-4 Manual Gearbox Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90, SAE 80W-90 - refer to manual for specific viscosity grades).
Automatic Fluid Type:
ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) - Dexron II or equivalent (refer to manual for specific type).
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan, 5-door Avant (Wagon)
Length:
Approx. 4300-4450 mm (169.3-175.2 in) depending on body style.
Width:
Approx. 1690-1700 mm (66.5-66.9 in).
Height:
Approx. 1380-1420 mm (54.3-55.9 in) for sedan.
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1100-1350 kg (2425-2976 lbs) depending on configuration.
Era Safety Standards:
Designed to meet European safety standards of the late 1980s, including reinforced safety cage and crumple zones.
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear discs or drums. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on higher trims/later models.
Steering:
Power-assisted rack and pinion steering.
Airbags:
Driver airbag became available as an option in later years of the B3 generation.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts at front and rear.
Audio System:
Factory fitted radios with cassette players, typically with 2-4 speakers. Upgrade options often involved DIN-sized head units.
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC controls. Automatic climate control was a rare option on higher trims.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional and became more prevalent in later production years.
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control system available on certain models.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; typically only basic radio and speaker connectivity. Some models offered optional central locking and power windows.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 km or 12 months (refer to manual for specific engine and oil type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial service item, typically every 60,000-80,000 km or 4-5 years for most petrol engines. Critical to follow manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type; typically 30,000 km for standard plugs, 60,000 km for platinum plugs.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0-5.0 liters (depending on engine).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3; Viscosity: 10W-40, 15W-40, 5W-40 (depending on climate and engine; consult manual).
Coolant Type:
G11 (Blue/Green ethylene glycol based) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Wear Items:
Suspension bushings (control arm, sway bar), wheel bearings, CV joints, fuel pumps, electrical connectors (corrosion), door seals, ABS sensors.
Engine Specific:
Timing belt failure (non-interference engines are forgiving, interference engines cause significant damage), fuel distributor issues (KE-Jetronic), coolant leaks from thermostat housing and heater core.
Electrical Gremlins:
Faulty grounds, corroded wiring harnesses, particularly in the engine bay and under the dashboard, can lead to intermittent issues.
Audi Legacy:
Built on Audi's reputation for 'Vorsprung durch Technik' (Progress through Technology), continuing the legacy of sophisticated front-wheel-drive vehicles.
Predecessor:
Audi 80 B2 (Typ 81/85).
Successor:
Audi 80/90 B4 (Typ 8A/8C).
Key Innovations B3:
Introduction of the Procon-Ten safety system (precursor to airbags) in some markets/models, improved aerodynamics, and galvanization of the body shell.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Ingolstadt, Neckarsulm), and other VW Group plants.
Production Volume:
Significant global production numbers contributing to Audi's growth in the late 1980s.
Design Awards:
While specific design awards for the B3 are not prominently documented, its clean, aerodynamic styling was well-received and influential for Audi's brand image.
Reliability Perception:
Generally considered a reliable car when properly maintained, with a robust drivetrain and chassis. However, like all cars of this era, age-related component failures are common.
Quality Standards:
Manufactured to stringent Volkswagen Group quality standards, including extensive use of galvanized steel for corrosion resistance.