Vehicle Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E36), Mercedes-Benz W202 C-Class, Acura Integra, Lexus ES250
Distinguishing Features:
Quattro all-wheel drive, refined 5-cylinder engine, upscale interior, solid build quality
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection (K-Jetronic/Digifant), ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission (016), Automatic transmission (097/098), clutch, drivetrain components (CV joints, axles)
Brake Systems:
Front disc brakes (vented), rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair
Suspension Steering:
Front independent suspension (McPherson struts), rear torsion beam/independent suspension (depending on specific model variant), power steering system
Electrical Systems:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, central locking, diagnostic connectors, fuse/relay locations
Body Chassis:
Body construction, panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, chassis components, corrosion protection
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components and servicing
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, timing belt replacement, belt tensioning
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnostics and repair, fuel system servicing
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common issues
Technical Data Charts:
Torque specifications, fastener tightening sequences, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Depth Of Information:
Detailed, comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls
Engine Type:
Inline 5-cylinder, naturally aspirated
Engine Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2309 cc)
Engine Code Example:
NG, AAR, ABK
Horsepower Peak:
Approximately 130-137 hp @ 5500-5800 RPM (depending on market and specific engine code)
Torque Peak:
Approximately 137-140 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 RPM (depending on market and specific engine code)
Fuel Delivery System:
Bosch K-Jetronic CIS (Continuous Injection System) or Digifant II electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type Required:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating typically 91 RON/87 AKI or higher)
Ignition Type:
Electronic ignition with distributor or distributorless ignition system (DIS)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically G11 (blue) or compatible (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (Type 016)
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (Type 097/098)
Drivetrain Options:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) or Audi's legendary Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (specific Audi specification recommended)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (check specific Audi recommendation)
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan, 2-door Coupe
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2610 mm (102.8 inches)
Overall Length:
Approximately 4400 mm (173.2 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1300-1450 kg (2866-3197 lbs), depending on configuration (sedan/coupe, FWD/Quattro)
Crash Test Data Availability:
Limited official NHTSA/IIHS data for this specific year, but general structural integrity was considered good for its era.
ABS Availability:
Available as an option, standard on some higher trims
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard on most models
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners (front)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Crucial! Typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4-5 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on spark plug type (copper, platinum).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Engine Oil Specification:
API SH/SJ, ACEA A2/A3. Viscosity: 5W-40 or 10W-40 recommended (consult manual for specific climate conditions).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 (or DOT 3 if specified)
Common Wear Items:
Suspension bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, CV boots, ABS wheel speed sensors, ignition coil/module failure, fuel distributor issues (K-Jetronic).
Electrical Gremlins:
Can be prone to minor electrical issues due to age, particularly around door locks, window regulators, and instrument cluster components.
Corrosion:
Check for rust, especially in wheel arches, rocker panels, and around the battery tray.
