1992 Audi 80 E review from Australia and New Zealand

Slight ATF fluid leak at the radiator end, problem with radiator fitting, will need new radiator (damn the automatic - never had radiator probs in any previous Audi I had, no choice - this is a Jap import with an automatic).

Slight coolant leak at the plastic coolant elbow on engine, possibly needs a new gasket.

Changed thermostat (wasn't running warm enough).

History unknown, so did full maintenance work including timing belt, fluids, auto transmission service, fuel filter.

Built like a tank - solid, no rattles, galvanised body won't rust.

Rigid - I bought this car because it's safe (with out paying through the nose for Swedish parts), a friend's survived a serious accident in an Audi with only a gash, he's bought another Audi.

Automatic is sluggish off the mark in city driving, but in the open road, can accelerate like my old 5-speed, thank goodness. Personally I'll ALWAYS go manual, but there are no 5-speed Audis in Japan, where this was imported from. Compromise - I wanted an Audi at a good price, must live with an automatic (Sob!)

Driving position not ideal for me - if I move the seat far enough back for my legs to be OK, I can't reach the steering wheel comfortably, must be an Audi trait.

My 4th Audi, new parts prices surprisingly reasonable vs. modern Jap cars, and reliable, none of my previous Audis ever stranded me.

Design still looks modern, doesn't look "older" than the A4, only different, dashboard well-designed, looks great.

All problems normal for its age, never serious.

Fuel consumption not too good around town (strange, a previous similar Audi auto had much better economy), but better in constant open road speeds.

I'm happy enough, can't wait for the A4's to come in as affordable Jap imports.