Era:
Pioneering the premium compact coupe segment for Audi in the early 1980s.
Target Audience:
Discerning drivers seeking a blend of performance, style, and Audi's renowned build quality.
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E30), Mercedes-Benz 190E (W201), Ford Capri, Opel Monza.
Differentiation:
Front-wheel-drive platform (unique in its class), sophisticated Quattro all-wheel-drive option, advanced aerodynamics for its time.
Design:
Sleek, aerodynamic coupe styling with clean lines, embodying the design language of the era.
Powertrain Options:
Available with efficient inline-five engines and the groundbreaking Quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Driving Dynamics:
Known for its balanced handling and comfortable ride, especially with the Quattro system providing superior traction.
Applicable Model Years:
1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987
Engine Coverage:
All engine variants covered
Transmission Coverage:
All transmission types covered (Manual and Automatic)
Trim Level Coverage:
All trim levels covered
Estimated Page Count:
High volume, likely 1000+ pages
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, manual transmission, automatic transmission, drive axles, differential
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (hydraulic, parking brake), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, starting and charging system, instrumentation, engine control unit (ECU) and sensors, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), sound system
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC system, body sealing
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, component testing procedures, fault code interpretation (where applicable)
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body repair
Installation:
Component replacement, accessory installation (e.g., trailer hitch, fog lights), timing belt installation
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline-5 Cylinder, SOHC and DOHC variants
Displacement Common:
2.1 Liters (2144cc)
Displacement Later:
2.2 Liters (2226cc)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 115 hp to 130 hp for naturally aspirated, up to 160 hp for fuel-injected models.
Torque Range:
Approximately 124 lb-ft to 140 lb-ft.
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (e.g., Pierburg 2E, Zenith Stromberg) and Bosch K-Jetronic CIS (Continuous Injection System) fuel injection.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Premium recommended)
Engine Code Examples:
JN, KE, KV, KU, WT (for 2.2L Turbo KG)
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., ZF 3HP22)
Drive Layout:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) standard, Quattro All-Wheel Drive (AWD) optional.
Final Drive:
Various gear ratios depending on engine and transmission configuration, often with a limited-slip differential (LSD) on Quattro models.
Length:
Approx. 4390 mm (172.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1350 mm (53.1 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2500 mm (98.4 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1150 kg - 1350 kg (2535 lbs - 2976 lbs) depending on configuration
Crash Test Results:
Not extensively tested by modern standards, but benefitted from Audi's robust B2 platform construction.
Braking System:
Front: Ventilated discs; Rear: Solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts
Body Construction:
Unibody construction with front and rear crumple zones, side impact beams.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional amplifier and additional speakers. Later models offered more advanced audio.
ABS:
Available as an optional feature on many models.
Original Connectivity:
Basic, with analog systems and no modern connectivity features.
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace as needed or at 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Timing Belt:
Replace every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years (critical due to interference engine design).
Engine Oil:
API SG, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent.
Engine:
Timing belt failure (interference engine), oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets, distributor cap and rotor wear, fuel injection system maintenance (K-Jetronic).
Electrical:
Aging wiring harnesses, instrument cluster issues, alternator and starter motor wear, fuse box corrosion.
Chassis:
Suspension bushing wear, rust on body panels (wheel arches, rocker panels), brake component wear.
Brand Focus:
Audi, known for its engineering prowess, 'Vorsprung durch Technik' philosophy, and innovative technologies like Quattro.
Facelift:
Minor styling updates and technical revisions throughout its production run, notably the introduction of larger engines and improved aerodynamics towards the end of the 1980s.
Production Period:
1980-1987
Manufacturing Location:
Ingolstadt, Germany
