1992 Audi 80 from Germany - Comments

Electrical pump of the central locking system failed at 80.000 km in 1999.

One of the rear disk brake assemblies started to leak hydraulic fluid in 2002 at 100.000 km, a costly repair because both sides had to be exchanged.

Apart from that nothing in between service intervals.

This car is one of the most solid cars ever built in Germany, particular in its class.

Although it only has the weakest engine (90 hp) with the Monotronic fuel injection it produces enough torque to never feel underpowered.

What I do not like is the sound between 120 and 140 km/h, the overall frequency then becomes very unpleasant.

Everything in this car handles well and the road grip is even better than in a 1979 Volkswagen Golf GTI that I remember well for its go-cart-like handling. Inside and outside finish is still superb, even after 11 years and without having paid too much attention except for the odd visit to the car wash.

I also have the 90HP engine. It is indeed very noisy at 3900RPM (which equals 130 km/h in 5th gear). The car is very well built and the breakdowns don't come along that often. Despite the lack of HP, I still like the engine. Because it's a 2 liter you have plenty of torque at low revs. It's also very economical for a petrol engine of that size. The car has a fantastic gear box and the visibility is superb. The only thing I don't like is the overpowered power steering and the super soft suspension. You don't feel the car as much as you want to feel it and the diving while accelerating/breaking makes me often feel sick. But when you fit some sporty springs it should be over. It's just a great car. And I'm going to enjoy it as long as possible.

The 2 litre is slow, but go for the 2l 16v. I'm sure you will see why the suspension is how it is because it handles at 155mph.