1990 Audi 80 E review from Australia and New Zealand

Break reservoir bayonet seal leaked ($20 fix).

Intermediate muffler corroded and needed replaced (whole system $500).

Moulded plastic tube at top of radiator that main hose clamps onto sheared off. Entire radiator replaced ($500).

Heater core leaked inside ventilation ducting - expensive to repair as required most of dash to be removed to access core ($800).

CV boots cracked and had to be replaced ($200).

Front factory oil-filled shock absorbers were apparently badly worn - still not convinced it was a problem, however new air-filled shocks are vastly superior and the handling is much improved. ($1200)

Felt material on doors has come unstuck and has proven a messy job to fix, the foam backing is crumbling and very sticky. However it's a repair I can easily do myself.

The car feels very sturdy, and the 2 litre engine is reasonably powerful for one of this vintage.

The factory fitted oil-filled shocks give a poor ride quality over rough roads, however after they were replaced with new air-filled shocks, the ride and handling were vastly improved. The interior is a mix of black and very dark greys - overall it is quite stylish.

My Audi 80 was in excellent condition when I purchased it and obviously well looked after. It had only 66k on the clock, and was literally close to new condition despite being 16 years old at the time.

Although I would consider the car quite reliable and I have never had it let me down in traffic, there have been several age related problems that have kept my mechanic busy (as described in the fault section of this review).

Purchased this Audi 80 four cylinder despite a preference for the 6 cylinder 1994 version - I had heard too many stories of problems with 6 to take the risk. I certainly don't regret my decision.