Cars: Audi

Audi is a German automobile manufacturer with headquarters in Ingolstadt, Bavaria. It is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group.
Audi's German tagline is "Vorsprung durch Technik"; this is used either untranslated or in its English translation, "progression through Technology". The English tagline is "Never Follow".

History

Press photograph of the then newly merged Audi NSU range, 1969.
The origins of Audi
The company traces its origins back to 1899 and August Horch. The first Horch automobile was produced in 1901 in Zwickau. In 1910, Horch was forced out of the company he had founded. He then started a new company in Zwickau and continued using the Horch brand. His former partners sued him for trademark infringement and a German court determined that the Horch brand belonged to his former company. August Horch was forced to refrain from using his own family name in his new car business. As the word "horch!" translates to "hark!" in German, August Horch settled on the Latin equivalent of his name — "audi!". It is also popularly believed that Audi is an acronym which stands for "Auto Union Deutschland Ingolstadt". Audi produces over 2 million vehicles annually at its main production site in Ingolstadt. Audi has another production plant in Neckarsulm.
Audi started with a 2612 cc (2.6 Liter) model followed by a four cylinder model with 3564 cc (3.6 L), as well as 4680 cc(4.7 L) and 5720 cc(5.7L) models. These cars were successful even in sporting events. August Horch left the Audi company in 1920. The first six cylinder model ,4655 cc(4.7 L) appeared in 1924. In 1928, the company was acquired by J S Rasmussen, owner of DKW, who bought the same year the remains of the US automobile manufacturer, Rickenbacker including the manufacturing equipment for eight cylinder engines. These engines were used in Audi Zwickau and Audi Dresden models that were launched in 1929. At the same time, six cylinder and a small four cylinder (licensed from Peugeot) models were manufactured. Audi cars of that era were luxurious cars equipped with special bodywork.
Pronunciation: Audi is commonly pronounced as "odd-ee", but the correct form rhymes with "howdy".
The Auto Union era
In 1932 Audi merged with Horch, DKW and Wanderer to form the Auto Union. Before World War II, Auto Union used the four interlinked rings that make up the Audi badge today, representing these four brands. This badge was used, however, only on Auto Union racing cars in that period while the member companies used their own names and emblems. The technological development became more and more concentrated and some Audi models were propelled by Horch or Wanderer built engines. During World War II the Horch/Auto Union produced the SDKFZ 222 armored car, which was used mostly in the Polish Blitzkrieg conquest and North African Campaign. It was powered by an 81 hp Horch/Auto Union V8 Engine which had a top speed of 50 miles per hour.
Another vehicle which was used in World War II to shuttle German military officials safely was known as the Kraftfahrzeug (KFZ 11) or the Horch Type 80. The military used it as a light transport vehicle which was used in the German Conquest of Poland.
Pause and a new start
Auto Union plants were heavily bombed and partly destroyed during World War II. After the war, Zwickau soon became part of the German Democratic Republic and Auto Union headquarters were relocated to Ingolstadt in 1949. In that period, the four interlinked rings were used together with the DKW badge. The company focused efforts on the DKW brand, but their two-stroke engines became unpopular. In 1958, Daimler-Benz acquired 88 per cent of Auto Union and the next year became its sole owner. Daimler-Benz developed a 72 hp (54 kW) four-door sedan, with a modern four stroke engine driving the front wheels. This model (later known as the Audi 72) appeared in September 1965, "relaunching" the Audi brand. Daimler-Benz sold the company to Volkswagen in 1964; subsequently, Volkswagen's purchase of Auto Union has led to the modernization of VW to which it gained expertise in manufacturing water-cooled vehicles. As of December 23, 2005, VW no longer places previously produced aircooled powerplants into production vehicles.

Audi 60 (1968 — 1972)
In 1969, Audi merged with NSU, based in Neckarsulm near Stuttgart. In the 1950s NSU had been the world's largest manufacturer of motorcycles but had moved on to produce small cars like the NSU Prinz (the TT and TTS versions are still popular as vintage race cars). NSU then focused on new rotary engines according to the ideas of Felix Wankel. In 1967, the new NSU Ro 80 was a space-age car well ahead of its time in technical details such as aerodynamics, light weight, safety, et cetera, but teething problems with the rotary engines put an end to the independence of NSU. Presently several lines of Audi cars are produced in Neckarsulm.
The mid-sized car that NSU had been working on, the K70, was intended to slot between the rear-engined Prinz models and the futuristic Ro 80. However, Volkswagen took the K70 for its own range, spelling the end of NSU as a separate brand.
The modern era of Audi

Audi Quattro

Audi TT
The first Audi of the modern era was the Audi 100 of 1968. This was soon joined by the Audi 80/Fox (which formed the basis for the 1973 Volkswagen Passat) in 1972 and the Audi 50 (later, rebadged as the Volkswagen Polo) in 1974.
The Audi image at this time was a conservative one, and so, a proposal from chassis engineer Jorg Bensinger was accepted to develop the four-wheel drive technology in Volkswagen's Iltis military vehicle for an Audi performance car and rally racing car. The performance car was named the "Quattro," a turbocharged coupé which was also the first large-scale production vehicle to feature full-time all-wheel drive through a center differential (not counting the earlier Jensen FF, produced in small numbers). Commonly referred to as the "Ur-Quattro" (the "Ur-" prefix is a German augmentative used, in this case, to mean "original" and is also applied to the first generation of Audi's S4 and S6 sport sedans, as in "UrS4" and "UrS6"), few of these vehicles were produced (all hand-built by a single team) but the model was a great success in rallying. Prominent wins proved the viability of all-wheel drive racecars, and the Audi name became associated with advances in automotive technology,
In 1986, as the Passat-based Audi 80 was beginning to develop a kind of "grandfather's car" image, the type 89 was introduced. This completely new development sold extremely well. However, its modern and dynamic exterior belied the low performance of its base engine, and its base package was quite spartan (even the passenger-side mirror was an option.) In 1987, Audi put forward a new and very elegant Audi 90, which had a much superior set of standard features. In the early nineties, sales began to slump for the Audi 80 series, and some basic construction problems started to surface.
This decline in sales was not helped in the USA by a 60 Minutes report which purported to show that Audi automobiles suffered from "unintended acceleration". The 60 Minutes report was based on customer reports of acceleration when the brake pedal was pushed. Independent investigators concluded that this was most likely due to a close placement of the accelerator and brake pedals (unlike American cars), and the inability, when not paying attention, to distinguish between the two. (In race cars, when manually downshifting under heavy braking, the accelerator has to be used in order to match revs properly, so both pedals have to be close to each other to be operated by the right foot at once, toes on the brake, heels on the gas.). This did not become an issue in Europe, possibly due to more widespread experience among European drivers with manual transmissions.
60 Minutes ignored this fact and rigged a car to perform in an uncontrolled manner. The report immediately crushed Audi sales, and Audi renamed the affected model (The 5000 became the 100/200 in 1989, as in Germany and elsewhere). Audi had contemplated withdrawing from the American market until sales began to recover in the mid-1990s. The turning point for Audi was the sale of the new A4 in 1996, and with the release of the A4/6/8 series, which was developed together with VW and other sister brands (so called "platforms").
Currently, Audi's sales are growing strongly in Europe, and the company is still renowned for having among the best build quality of any mainstream auto manufacturer. 2004 marked the 11th straight increase in sales, selling 779,441 vehicles worldwide. Record figures were recorded from 21 out of about 50 major sales markets. The largest sales increases came from Eastern Europe (+19.3%), Africa (+17.2%) and the Middle East (+58.5%). In March of 2005, Audi is building its first two dealerships in India following its high increase in sales in that region. Sadly, the brand still doesn't have the global cachet of Mercedes-Benz or BMW, although Audi's reputation for quality and understated style has once again made it a highly desirable marque.
Audi has recently started offering a computerised control system for its cars called MMI (MultiMedia Interface). This comes amid criticism of BMW's fabled iDrive control, essentially a rotating control knob designed to control radio, satnav, tv, heating and car controls with a screen.
The MMI system is said to be much better, as it has a mass of buttons around a central knob, taking you to shortcuts, ie. Radio, Nav, TV, Phone, Car, etc. The screen, either colour or monochrome, is mounted on the upright dashboard, and on the A6 and A8, the controls are mounted horizontally. However, MMI is also available on the Audi A3 and A4, in place of the stereo system, with relocated heater controls. If this is ordered, the MMI screen is in the vertical position of the stereo, with the control knob to the right, and a wealth of buttons (Radio, Nav, TV, Phone, Car etc) displayed horizontally below the screen. It is notable that on the A3 and A4, the MMI screen also flips down horizontally so you can access the DVD drive (unfortunately it is NOT possible to watch DVDs on the screen without adding a third party DVD player) to change the sat nav disc, and there are also two MMC/SD card ports so you can look at photos on the screen or play MP3 files off the cards via the stereo system and in car speakers.
Auto racing
Audi has competed in (and sometimes dominated) numerous forms of auto racing. Audi's rich tradition in motorsport began with the Auto Union in the 1930s. In the 1990s Audi dominated the Touring and Super Touring categories of motor racing after success in circuit racing Stateside.
Rallying
In 1980 Audi released the Quattro, an all wheel drive turbocharged car that went on to win rallies and races worldwide. It is considered one of the most significant rally cars of all time because it was one of the first to take advantage of the then-recently changed rules which allowed the use of all-wheel-drive in competition racing. Many critics doubted the viability of all-wheel-drive racers, thinking them to be too heavy and complex, yet the Quattro was an instant success, winning its first rally on its first outing. It won competition after competition for the next two years.
In 1984 Audi launched the "Sport Quattro" car which dominated races in Monte Carlo and Sweden with Audi taking all podium finishes but succumbed to problems further into World Rally Championship contention. After another season mired in mediocre finishes, Walter Röhrl finished the season in his Sport Quattro S1 and helped place Audi second in the manufacturer's points. Audi also received rally honors in the Hong Kong to Beijing rally in that same year. Michèle Mouton, the first female WRC driver to win a round of the World Rally Championship and a driver for Audi, took the Sport Quattro S1, now simply called the S1 and raced in the Pikes Peak Hill Climb. The climb race pits a driver and car to drive up a 4,302 meter high mountain in Colorado and in 1985, Michèle Mouton set a new record of 11:25.39 and being the first woman to set a Pikes Peak record. In 1986, Audi formally left international rally racing following an accident in Portugal involving driver Joaquim Santos in his Ford RS200. Santos swerved to avoid hitting spectators in the road, and left the track into the crowd of spectators on the side, killing three and injuring 30. Bobby Unser used an Audi in that same year to claim a new record for the Pikes Peak Hill Climb at 11:09.22.
Motorsports in the USA
In 1987, Walter Röhrl claimed the title for Audi setting a new Pikes Peak record of 10:47.85 in his Audi S1 which he retired from the WRC two years earlier. The Audi S1 employed Audi's time-tested 5-cylinder turbo charged engine and generated over 600 hp (447 kW). The engine was mated to a 6-speed gearbox and ran on Audi's famous all-wheel drive system. All of Audi's top drivers drove this beast, Hannu Mikkola, Stig Blomqvist, Walter Röhrl and the female driver, Michèle Mouton. The Audi S1 enjoys a 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 2.3 s. This Audi S1 started the S-series of cars for Audi which now represents an increased level of sports options and quality in the Audi line-up.
As Audi moved away from rallying and into circuit racing, they chose to move first into America with the Trans-Am in 1988.
In 1989, Audi moved to IMSA GTO with the 90, however as they avoided the two major endurance events (Daytona and Sebring) despite winning on a regular basis, they would lose out on the title.
Touring cars
In 1990, having completed their objective to market cars in the United States, Audi returned to Europe turning first to the DTM series with the Audi V8, then in 1993, being unwilling to build cars for the new formula, they turned their attention to the fast growing Supertouring series, which took place nationally, first in the French Supertourisme and Italian Superturismo. In the following year, Audi would switched to the German Super Tourenwagen (known as STW) and then to BTCC (British Touring Car Championship) the year after that.
The FIA, having difficulty regulating the Quattro system and what impact it had on the competitors, would eventually ban all four wheel drive cars from competiting in 1998, by then Audi switched all their works efforts to sports car racing.
By 2000, Audi would still compete in the US with their RS4 for the SCCA Speed World GT Challenge, through dealer/team Champion Racing competing against Corvettes, Vipers, and smaller BMWs (where it is one of the few series to permit 4WD cars). In 2003, Champion Racing entered an RS6. Once again, the Quattro was superior and Champion Audi won the championship. They returned in 2004 to defend their title but a newcomer, Cadillac with the new Omega Chassis CTS-V, gave them a run for their money. After four victories in a row, the Audis were sanctioned with several negative changes that deeply affected the car's performance. Namely, added ballasts and Champion Audi deciding to go with different tires and backing off the turbos boost pressure.
In 2004, after years of competiting with the TT-R in the revitalised DTM series, with privateer team Abt Racing/Christian Abt taking the 2002 title with Laurent Aïello, Audi returned as a full factory effort to touring car racing by entering two factory supported Joest Racing A4s.
Sports car racing
Beginning in 1999, Audi built the Audi R8 to compete in sports car racing, including the LMP900 class at the 24 hours of Le Mans. The factory supported Joest Racing team won at Le Mans three times in a row (2000 — 2002), as well as winning every race in the American Le Mans Series in its first year. Audi also sold the car to customer teams such as Champion Racing. In 2003, two Bentley Speed 8s, with engines designed by Audi and driven by Joest drivers loaned to the fellow VW company, competed in the GTP class and finished the race in the top two positions, while the Champion Racing R8 finished third overall and first in the LMP900 class. Audi returned to the winner's circle at the 2004 race, with the top three finishers all driving R8s: Audi Sport Japan Team Goh finished first, Audi Sport UK Veloqx second, and Champion Racing third.
At the 2005 24 Hours of Le Mans, Champion Racing entered two R8s along with an R8 from the Audi PlayStation Team Oreca. The R8s (which were built to old LMP900 regulations) received a more narrow air inlet restrictor, cutting power, and an additional 50 kg of weight compared to the newer LMP1 chassis. On average, the R8s were about 2-3 seconds off pace compared to the Pescarolo-Judd. But with a team of excellent drivers and experience, both Champion R8s were able to take first and third while the ORECA team took fourth. The Champion team was also the first American team to win Le Mans since the Gulf Ford GT's in 1967. This also ends the long era of the R8;, however, its replacement for 2006, called the Audi R10, was unveiled on December 13, 2005. the R10 employs many new features, including a twin-turbocharged diesel engine. Its first race was the 2006 12 Hours of Sebring as a race-test for the 2006 24 Hours of Le Mans, which it later went on to win. Audi has been on the forefront of motorsports, claiming a historic win in the first ever diesel sports car at 12 Hours of Sebring. Audi has achieved the title as the most dominant motor sport power since the start of the 21st Century, continuing its long and storied motor sport heritage.
Technology
Audi produces 100% galvanized vehicles to prevent corrosion. Along with other precautionary measures, the thus achieved full-body zinc coating has proved to be very effective in preventing rust and corrosion perforation. The body's resulting durability even surpassed Audi's own expectations, causing the manufacturer to extend its original 10-year warranty against corrosion perforation to currently 12 years. An all-aluminium car was brought forward by Audi, and in 1994 the Audi A8 was launched, which introduced aluminium space frame technology. Audi introduced a new series of vehicles in the mid-nineties and continues to pursue leading-edge technology and high performance.
The all-aluminium concept was extended to the company's new sub-compact, the Audi A2 which was launched in 2001, although this model was withdrawn from production late in 2005 as the costs of producing an all-aluminium small car proved too high for many buyers looking for a small semi-luxurious car. The aluminium body has proved better suited to larger executive models such as the large A8 saloon.
In all its post Volkswagen-era models, Audi has firmly refused to adopt the traditional rear wheel drive layout favoured by its two arch rivals Mercedes-Benz and BMW, favouring either front wheel drive or all wheel drive. To achieve this, Audi has usually engineered its cars with a longditudinally mounted engine mounted in an "overhung" position over the front wheels - the so-called "U-drive" layout. While this allows for equal length driveshafts (therefore combatting torque steer), and the easy adoption of all-wheel drive, it goes against the ideal 50/50 weight distribution. For this reason, most still believed that BMW still have the edge over Audi in terms of dynamic prowess, until the arrival of the super-fast RS4 saloon late in 2005. The car has received rave reviews and outsold BMW's M-division-badged cars and Mercedes-Benz's AMG models, its two biggest rivals in the performance arena. The car offers a 4.2 litre V8 engine with a scorching 414bhp, enough to propell the car to 62mph in under five seconds, and on to an electronically limited top speed of 155mph. The £49,980 car's best review to date was possibly provided by Top Gear, when Jeremy Clarkson set about racing the car along mountain roads in an attempt to beat a professional rock climber to the top of a large mountain. Despite Clarkson losing the exhillerating battle, he still proclaimmed Audi's RS4 an unforgettable masterpiece, and despite the price tag being a good ten thousand pounds more expensive than that of the rival BMW M3, high sales have clearly reflected the high regard in which the public hold this beautiful and most desirable of sports saloons.
In the 1970s, some vehicle manufacturers including Audi (and Subaru) designed their own all wheel drive systems in passenger vehicles. In the 1980s, all-wheel drive systems in cars became a fad, and other manufacturers like Porsche and Mercedes-Benz offered all-wheel drive systems in their cars to compete in the marketplace. Unfortunately, the all-wheel drive system in the Mercedes-Benz vehicles were riddled with problems right from the design sheet. The system also was not popular in Porsche vehicles because owners wanted the traditional performance of the rear wheel drive they got used to in older Porsches. Although Porsche and Mercedes-Benz offer all-wheel-drive systems in some cars and trucks today, neither manufacturer is as well-known for all-wheel-drive technology as is Audi. Today, after over 25 years of class-leading technology and engineering, the name quattro is an identifiable symbol and trademark that shows would-be competitors the level of quality they have to achieve in order to attempt to compete with Audi. Unfortunately, Audi have recently applied the quattro badge to models such as the A3 and TT which do not actually use the quattro four-wheel drive system, but VW's Synchro modified front wheel drive systems.
In the 1980s, Audi was the champion of the inline 5 cylinder, 2.1/2.2 L engine as a longer lasting alternative to more traditional 6 cylinder engines. This engine was used not only in production cars but also in their race cars. The 2.1L inline 5 cylinder engine was used as a base for the rally cars in the 1980s, providing well over 400 horsepower (298kW) after modification. Before 1990, there were engines produced with a displacement between 2.0L and 2.3L. This range of engine capacity was a good combination of good fuel economy (which was on the mind of every motorist in the 1980s) and, of course, a good amount of power.
Through the early 1990s, Audi began to move more towards the position of being a real competitor in its target market against Mercedes-Benz and BMW. This began with the release of the Audi V8 in 1990. It was essentially a new engine fitted to the Audi 100/200, but with noticeable bodywork differences. Most obvious was the new grille that was now incorprated in the bonnet.
By 1991, Audi had the 4 cylinder Audi 80, the 5 cylinder Audi 90 and Audi 100, the turbocharged Audi 200 and the Audi V8. There was also a coupe version of the 80/90 with both 4 and 5 cylinder engines.
Although the five cylinder engine was a successful and very robust powerplant, it was still a little too different for the target market. With the introduction of an all-new Audi 100 in 1992, Audi introduced a 2.8L V6 engine. This engine was also fitted to a face-lifted Audi 80 (all 80 and 90 models were now badged 80 except for the USA), giving this model a choice of 4, 5 and 6 cylinder engines, in sedan, coupe and cabriolet body styles.
The 5 cylinder was soon dropped as a major engine choice; however, a turbocharged 230hp (169kW) version remained. The engine, initially fitted to the 200 quattro 20V of 1991, was a derivative of the engine fitted to the Sport Quattro. It was fitted to the Audi Coupe and named the S2 and also to the Audi 100 body, and named the S4. These two models were the beginning of the mass-produced S series of performance cars.
The Audi A8 replaced the V8 in 1994, with a revolutionary Aluminium Space Frame (ASF) to save weight. The weight reduction was offset by the quattro all-wheel drive system. It meant the car had similar performance to its rivals, but far superior handling.
The next major model change was in 1995 when the Audi A4 replaced the Audi 80. The new nomenclature scheme was applied to the Audi 100 to become the Audi A6 (with a minor facelift). This also meant the S4 became the S6 and a new S4 was introduced in the A4 body. The S2 was discontinued. The Audi Cabriolet continued on (based on the Audi 80 platform) until 1999, gaining the engine upgrades along the way. A new A3 hatchback model (sharing the Volkswagen Golf Mk.4's platform) was introduced to the range in 1996, and the radical TT coupe and roadster were debuted in 1998 based on the same underpinnings. Another interesting model introduced was the Mercedes-Benz A-Class competitor, the Audi A2. The model sold relatively well in Europe, however, the A2 was discontinued in 2005 and Audi decided not to develop an immediate replacement.
The engines available throughout the range were now a 1.4L, 1.6L and 1.8L 4 cylinder, 1.8L 4-cylinder turbo, 2.6L and 2.8L V6, 2.2L turbo-charged 5 cylinder and the 4.2L V8. The V6s were replaced by new 2.4L and 2.8L 30V V6s in 1998, with marked improvement in power, torque and smoothness. Further engines were added along the way, including a 3.7L V8 and 6.0L W12 for the A8.
At the turn of the century, Audi introduced the direct-shift gearbox, a manual transmission driveable like an automatic transmission. The system includes dual electrohydraulically controlled clutches instead of a torque converter. This is implemented in some Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3 and TT models. The engine range was continually upgraded, with a 2.7L twin turbo V6 being offered in the Audi S4, A6 and allroad, while the 2.8L V6 was replaced by a 3.0L unit.
In 2001, Audi released a high performance version of the A8, dubbed S8. It featured a 360-horsepower 4.2L V8 with 317 torque.
New models of the A3, A4, A6 and A8 have been introduced, with the ageing 1.8 litre engine now having been replaced by new FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection) engines. Nearly every petrol model in the range now incorporates this fuel-saving technology, including the following:
1.6 litre 4 cylinder 115bhp, 2.0 litre 4 cylinder 150bhp (Slowly being fased out in order to make way for TSI engines - see section below), 2.0 litre 4 cylinder 200bhp, 2.0 litre 4 cylinder 220bhp, 3.2 litre V6 250-260bhp, 4.2 litre V8 350bhp, 4.2 litre V8 414bhp, & 5.2 litre V10 450bhp.
Other engines on sale and featuring in products of the Audi brand include:
1.6 litre 4 cylinder 102bhp, 1.9 litre TDi 105bhp, 2.0 litre TDi 140bhp, 2.0 litre TDi 170bhp, 2.7 litre TDi 180bhp, 3.0 litre TDi 233bhp, & 4.2 litre TDi 326bhp. All TDi models are diesels.
As a premium member of the VW Group, technologies are frequently first introduced to the mass market in Audi vehicles before being 'trickled down' to more value oriented brands such as VW, SEAT and Škoda. Recent examples of this include a number of the FSI engines mentioned above, as well as the quick-shifting DSG automatic gearbox option.
TSI technology was introduced to the Volkswagen Golf early in 2006. These engines use, initially at least, a capacity of 1.4 litres combined with both a turbo- and super-charger to produce a high power output, with lower levels of harmful carbon dioxide emissions and improved fuel economy when compared with a non-turbo or super-charged engine of a high capacity, such as 2.0 litres. The 1.4 litre TSI engine currently on sale in VW's Golf produces outputs of 140 and 170bhp. These engines have proved popular amongst the motoring press in Britain and could soon be filtered into the Audi range, with a possibility of featuring in the A3 and A4 models, as well as maybe featuring in SEAT and Skoda's model ranges sometime soon.
Models
Consumer models
50
80/90/4000
100/200/5000
A2
A3
A4
A6
A8
Q7
Allroad Quattro
Quattro
RS2
RS4
RS6
S2
S3
S4
S6
S8
TT
UrS4/S6
V8
NOTE: models in bold are current models
Racing models
Quattro S1
R8
R10
Sport
NOTE: models in bold are current models
Prototypes and concept cars
A5
A7
Allroad Quattro Concept
Avantissimo
Avus Quattro
Le Mans Quattro
Nuvolari Quattro
Pikes Peak Quattro
Q3
Q5
R8
Roadjet
RSQ (from I, Robot)
Shooting Brake
Audi
Audi Centre of Excellence
Audi Driving Experience
Audi Club of North America

Audi A3

Audi A3

Manufacturer:
Audi, a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG
Production:
1996–present
Class:
Compact car near luxury car
Body style:
3/5-door hatchback
Platform:
FF, AWD Volkswagen A
Related:
Audi TT Volkswagen Golf Skoda Octavia SEAT León
Similar:
Alfa Romeo 147 BMW 1-Series Saab 9-2X Volvo C30
The Audi A3 is a compact luxury automobile built by Audi since 1996. It uses the Volkswagen A platform shared with the VW Golf, Škoda Octavia and SEAT León.
First generation (1996-2003)
The original A3 (or Typ 8L) was introduced in the European market in 1996, marking Audi's return to the lower market segments since the demise of the Audi 50. Using the VW Golf's platform, it bears a natural close resemblance to its contemporary, the Golf Mk. IV. The car was initially available only with a three-door hatchback body, in order to present a more sporty image than the Golf, in both front- and four-wheel drive. All engines had a four-cylinder configuration and were transversally mounted. After the A4, the Audi A3 was the second model in the Audi lineup to use five valves per cylinder.
In 1999, Audi expanded the range with the introduction of an entry level model (1.6 L), a sporty version (1.8 Turbo with 180 PS (132 kW)) and a more powerful Diesel (1.9 TDI with pumpe-düse technology and variable geometry turbocharger). The four-wheel-drive A3 1.8T Quattro used either the 150 hp (110 kW) and 180 PS (132 kW) and the same Haldex-based all-wheel drive system as the Audi S3 and the original Audi TT. 1999 was also the year Audi was forced to bow to market demands and introduced a hastily conceived five-door body, that the company had never intended to produce.
In late 2001, the A3 range was revised with new light clusters, an improved interior, and the introduction of a six-speed manual gearbox, on the 180 PS 1.8 Turbo and the brand new 130 PS (96 kW) 1.9 TDI. Audi's ESP (Electronic Stability Program) traction-control and brakeforce distribution computer became standard equipment.
Although the Audi A3 was replaced in Europe during 2003, the first generation model continues to be sold in developing countries, most notably Brazil.

1st generation Audi A3
Engines
1.6 L (1595 cc/97 in³), 75 kW (102 PS)
1.8 L (1781 cc/108 in³), 92 kW (125 PS)
1.8 L (1781 cc/108 in³) light-pressure turbo, 110 kW (150 PS)
1.8 L (1781 cc/108 in³) turbo, 132 kW (180 PS)
1.8 L (1781 cc/108 in³) turbo, 154-165 kW (210-225 PS) (S3)
1.9 L (1896 cc/115 in³) turbo Diesel, 66 kW (90 PS)
1.9 L (1896 cc/115 in³) turbo Diesel, 81 kW (110 PS)
1.9 L (1896 cc/115 in³) turbo Diesel, 96 kW (130 PS)
Second generation (2003-)
In the 2003 Geneva Motor Show, Audi launched the second-generation of the A3, the Typ 8P, designed by Walter de'Silva. Originally launched as a 3-door hatchback only with four cylinder engines, it featured a new mechanical platform, a redesigned and more spacious interior, new petrol engines with Fuel Stratified Injection and standard six-speed gearboxes (except on the base 1.6).
In mid 2003, the line was updated with two sports models, a 2.0 Turbo FSI version with 200 PS (147 kW) and a 3.2 VR6 engine (for the first time) with 250 PS (184 kW). Quattro four wheel drive and the S-Tronic semi-auto gearbox were introduced as optionals (quattro is standard on the V6) on every model 140 PS and over.
A new 5-door body, dubbed Sportback, was introduced in June 2004. Unlike the previous generation, the new A3 Sportback is 8 cm (3 in) longer than the base 3-door body, and includes improved rear cabin space and a larger luggage compartment (370 litres). It also received the new front grille originally introduced in the A8 W12.
In 2005, the S-Line trim level, with new sporty decorative elements, became available in certain models, and the 3-door received the same frontend as the Sportback. For the first time, the A3 became available in the American market, exclusively with the Sportback body, with the base 2.0 TFSI introduced in 2005 and the 3.2 V6 quattro following in 2006. In April 2006, the lineup was expanded with the introduction of a more powerful 2.0 TDI with 170 PS (125 kW).
In August 2006, Audi announced the arrival of the S3 version, which will become the new range topper. The 2.0 TFSI engine was uprated to 265 PS (195 kW), thanks to a higher turbo pressure of 2.2 bar, and is available with a standard 6-speed manual and Quattro. The second generation S3 is capable of accelerating to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.7 seconds. The springs and dampers were tuned for a harder setting, and ride height lowered in 25 mm (1 inch). 225/40 R18 tyres are standard.
Engines
1.6 L (1595 cc), 75 kW (102 PS)
1.6 L (1598 cc) FSI, 85 kW (115 PS)
2.0 L (1984 cc) FSI, 110 kW (150 PS)
2.0 L (1984 cc) FSI turbo, 147 kW (200 PS)
3.2 L (3189 cc) V6, 184 kW (250 PS)
2.0 L (1984 cc) FSI turbo, 195 kW (265 PS) (S3)
1.9 L (1896 cc) turbo diesel, 77 kW (105 PS)
2.0 L (1968 cc) turbo diesel, 103 kW (140 PS)
2.0 L (1968 cc) turbo diesel, 125 kW (170 PS)
Trivia
In the Spring of 2005, Audi began a massive alternate reality game to advertise for the A3, known as The Art of the Heist.
:

Audi A4
Audi A4
Manufacturer:
Volkswagen AG
Production:
1995–present
Predecessor:
Audi 80
Class:
Entry-level luxury car / Mid-size executive car
Body style:
4-door sedan4-door station wagon2-door convertible
Platform:
FF/AWD
Similar:
Alfa Romeo 159 BMW 3 Series Infiniti G35 Jaguar X-Type Lexus IS Mercedes-Benz C-Class Volvo S40 Saab 9-3 Volvo S60

First generation

Production:
1995–2000
Engine:
1.6 L, 1.8 L 20V, 1.8 L 20V Turbo, 2.6 L V6 (1996-1999), 2.4 L V6 30V (1998-2000), 2.8 L V6 30V, 1.9 L TDI, 2.5 L V6 TDI
Transmission:
5-Speed Automatic Overdrive5-Speed Manual Overdrive
Wheelbase:
103.00 in.
Length:
178.00 in.
Width:
68.20 in.
Height:
55.80 in.
Fuel capacity:
16.4 gal.
The Audi A4 is an entry-level luxury car / mid-size executive car produced by the German automaker Audi since 1995. It is the replacement of the Audi 80 (called the Audi 4000 in North America) and Audi 90.
B5 (1995-2001)
Audi debuted the model in 1995 on Volkswagen's B5 platform, which it shared with the fourth generation Volkswagen Passat. Like the Passat, it had a longitudinally-mounted engine and standard front wheel drive, although the vast majority of A4s Audi sells in North America come optioned with their quattro all wheel drive system. The Avant station wagon arrived a year later.
A wide range of engines were available to European customers, between 1.6 and 2.8 L, and a 1.9 L Diesel available with VW's new "pumpe-düse" technology, capable of achieving a then high power value of 110 PS (81 kW), although Audi's 2.8 L V6, carried over from the old 80/90 was the only engine option in North America until 1997.
The Audi A4 was the first model in the Volkswagen Group to feature the new 1.8 L 20V motor with five valves per cylinder, based on the unit Audi Sport had developed for their Supertouring race car. A turbocharged version produced 150 PS (110 kW) and 210 Nm (155 ft.lbf) of torque. This technology was added to the V6 family in 1996, starting with the 2.8 L V6 30V, which now pumped 193 PS (142 kW).
Audi also debuted their new Tiptronic transmission on the B5 platform, based on the unit Porsche developed for their 964-generation 911. The transmission is a "manumatic", meaning it offers the driver a choice of driving the car as either an automatic or a clutchless manual.
The B5 A4 is arguably a watershed model for Audi. Previously regarded as somewhat of a bit-player in the luxury car segment, the massive improvement in quality and engineering with the B5 A4 made buyers realise that there was now a marque other than BMW and Mercedes. Combined with the radical TT concept (later a production car), Audi emerged as a leader in the luxury car market.
B5 facelift (1998-2001)
Audi refreshed the model in the 1997 Frankfurt Motor Show, with sales beginning in Europe in early 1998. Besides the introduction of a 2.4 L 30-valve V6 (replacing the outdated 2.6 V6), the most important additions to the range were the 2.5 L V6 TDI engine with 150 PS (110 kW) and standard quattro and a 6-speed gearbox, as well the new high-performance S4, now part of the A4 lineup (the previous S4 had been a Audi 100). New taillights, headlights, door handles, and other minor exterior/interior changes rounded out the cosmetic updates.
In mid 1998, the 1.8T engine available outside Europe had its power output raised to 170 PS (125 kW), while the 12-valve V6 was replaced by the 30 valve unit that had been available in Europe for two years.
In 1999, Audi debuted an even higher performance model, the RS4, like its predecessor RS2 available only in the Avant body.

B6 (2000-2005)
Second generation

Production:
2001–2005
Engine:
1.6 L, 2.0 2.0 FSI; L 20V, 1.8 L 20V Turbo, 2.4 L V6 30V, 3.0 L V6 30V, 1.9 L TDI, 2.5 L TDI, 3.0 L TDI
Transmission:
5-Speed Automatic Overdrive5-Speed Manual Overdrive6-Speed Manual Overdrive
Wheelbase:
104.30 in.
Length:
179.00 in.
Width:
69.50 in.
Height:
56.20 in.
Fuel capacity:
17.4 gal.
An all-new A4 debuted in late 2000, now riding on the B6 platform. The 1.6 L base model remained unchanged, but most other gasoline engines received either displacement increases or power upgrades. The 1.8 20 valve Turbo was now available in two additional versions, with 150 or 180 PS (110 or 132 kW), this one with a standard six-speed gearbox, while the naturally aspirated 1.8 L straight-4 and 2.8 L V6 were replaced by 2.0 L and 3.0 L units, still with five valves per cylinder, the most powerful of which was capable of 220 PS (162 kW) and 300 Nm (221 ft.lbf) of torque. The 1.9 TDI engine was upgraded to 130 PS and was now available with quattro, while the 2.5 V6 TDI high-end model was introduced with 180 PS (132 kW) and standard quattro. The Avant arrived in mid 2001.
Two 2 litre engines were on offer, the standard 2.0 20v engine with 128Bhp and the more economical 2.0 FSI 16v engine with 147 Bhp. The former accelerates from 0-62mph (0-100kmh) in 9.6, whilst the latter manages to do the same in 9.3 seconds. When driving, the 20v engine feels (sounds) faster than the FSI because of the sharp bursts of power whereas the FSI tends to deliver the power in a smooth manner, and needs higher revs to get the most out of it.
For 2002, Audi upgraded power in the 1.8 Turbo engines to 163 and 190 PS (120 and 140 kW respectively), and in the 2.5 TDI intermediate version to 163 PS. A year later, Audi reintroduced the S4, now powered by a 344 PS (253 kW) 4.2 L V8, as well as an A4 Cabrio convertible variant, finally replacing the 80-based Audi Cabriolet that had been discontinued in 1998.
Audi also introduced a continuously variable transmission developed by LuK, named Multitronic, which replaced the Tiptronic on front wheel drive models. The transmission won considerable praise from the automotive press and is generally regarded as being the best of its type in the world, due to its light weight and promptness in response, but its use was limited to models with a maximum of 310 Nm (229 ft.lbf).
Borrowing from the Audi A6, the boot was redesigned to remove the extension of the top edge with a smoother fold line, and the taillight assembly now forms part of the top line.
A new cabriolet version of the A4 was introduced in 2002 to replace the ageing Audi 80-based model. It incorporated some minor styling changes which eventually found their way to the sedan version (such as body-colored lower bumper and sill panels).
B7 (2004-present)
Third generation

Production:
2004–present
Engine:
1.6 L; 2.0 L 20V, 1.8 L 20V Turbo, 2.0 L TSFI, 3.2 L V6 FSI, 1.9 L TDI, 2.0 L TDI, 2.7 L TDI, 3.0 L TDI
Transmission:
5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, CVT
Wheelbase:
104.30 in.
Length:
180.60 in.
Width:
69.80 in.
Height:
56.20 in.
Fuel capacity:
18.5 gal.
Audi introduced a redesigned A4 in late 2004, now riding on the B7 platform, which is completely unique to Audi and not shared with Volkswagen. Nonetheless, the B7 is really a revision of the outgoing B6, and not a ground-up redesign. This is confirmed by Audi's internal platform nomenclature, which uses PL46 (longitudinal passenger car platform, size 4, generation 6) for both B6 and B7 chassis.
The engine lineup received many additions, the most notable of which was the introduction of Fuel Stratified Injection on the new 2.0 TFSI and 3.2 V6 FSI, respectively capable of 200 and 255 PS (147 and 188 kW), although these engines dropped the five-valve design in favor of the more widely known four valves per cylinder configuration, as the design was incompatible with the direct injection system. The new 2.0 TDI engine now combined Pumpe Düse (PD) technology with 16 valves for the first time, while the larger 2.5 TDI was increased to 3.0 L, with 204 PS (150 kW). quattro was available either as an option or standard on most mid- to high-end models, with multitronic and Tiptronic automatic gearboxes available throughout the entire lineup. As per the B6, multitronic is available only on front-wheel drive models and Tiptronic only available on quattro models.
In addition to the carry-over S4, which remained unchanged on the technical side, Audi has reintroduced the RS4 to the lineup, for the first time on the sedan body and with a normally aspirated 4.2 V8 FSI engine. Another notable inclusion is the 3rd-generation quattro system which uses 40:60 front-rear power distribution. A limited edition variant first introduced in late 2005, named "DTM Edition", was reintroduced in 2006 as a regular option, the 2.0T FSI engine now engineered to 220 PS (162 kW) with standard quattro. The front grill assembly has changed to be full height in the same manner as the Audi A6.
The B7 Cabriolet model arrived later than the other two body variants, with sales beginning in February 2006. Brand new on the Cabriolet was an entry-level 2.0 TDI version, but to date this is not being offered with the Multitronic gearbox.
Current lineup
A4 Engine Setup
Power
Sedan
Avant
Cabriolet
1.6
102 PS

2.0
130 PS

1.8 T
163 PS

1.8 T quattro
163 PS

2.0 TFSI
200 PS

2.0 TFSI quattro
200 PS

2.0 DTM Edition
220 PS

3.2 FSI
255 PS

3.2 FSI quattro
255 PS

4.2 S4
344 PS

4.2 RS4
420 PS

1.9 TDI
115 PS

2.0 TDI
140 PS

2.0 TDI quattro
140 PS

2.0 TDI
170 PS

2.7 TDI
180 PS

3.0 TDI quattro
233 PS

Audi A6
Audi A6

Manufacturer:
Volkswagen AG
Production:
1994–present
Predecessor:
Audi 100
Successor:
None
Class:
Mid-size luxury car / Executive car
Body style:
4-door sedan, 5-door wagon
Platform:
FF, AWD
Similar:
Acura TL Cadillac STS Citroën C6 Lexus GS Renault Vel Satis Saab 9-5 Jaguar S-Type Volvo S80
The Audi A6 is a mid-size luxury car / executive car produced by the German automaker Audi. It is available in sedan and station wagon (Avant) body styles. The second generation A6 was also used as the basis for the Allroad. Its primary competitors are the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5-Series, Alfa Romeo 166, Jaguar S-Type, Lexus GS and Volvo S80.
C4 (1994-1997)

C4 Audi 100 sedan- note this is pre-facelift 100, not an A6
In 1994, the latest generation (C4) of the Audi 100 was facelifted and re-badged as the A6, to fit in with Audi's new naming policy (as the A8 had just been introduced). The exterior was largely left unchanged from the C4 100, the same happening with chassis and engine and transmission choices.
Up until 1997, the A6 came with several different engines, two of them Diesel, and most of them available with Audi's quattro four wheel drive system. The A6 was also available with sedan and Avant bodies.
The C4 design was available with the following engines:
Engine
Cyl.
Power (PS)
1.8 20V
4
125
2.0
4
115
2.3
5
133
2.6
V6
150
2.8
V6
174
2.8 30V
V6
193
S6 2.2 T
5
230
S6 4.2
V8
280
S6 4.2 Plus
V8
326
1.9 TDI
4
90
2.5 TDI
V6
115
2.5 TDI
V6
140
C5 (1997-2004)

C5 Audi A6 sedan quattro
In 1997 the scene changed strikingly for the A6. With the introduction of an ambitious new design (C5) and a new pack of engines, the A6 moved up a notch and was positioned alongside the hegemonious BMW 5-Series and the solid Mercedes E-class. The new A6 presented itself with a wide range of engines and configurations. The crisp 30-valve 2.4 and 2.8 V6 engines represented the bulk of the A6's development programme, but the resilient 2.5 V6 TDI and the powerful all-new Audi S6 were the flagships. As an alternative to the manual transmission, a 5-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission was also available.
The C5 Sedan body arrived in 1997, and the Avant body in 1998 in Europe. In the US, the C4 continued for 1997, with the C5 sedan appearing in 1998, and the C5 Avant appearing in 1999. However, in Canada, there was no Avant (wagon) available at all in 1998 -- Audi dropped the C4 Avant at the end of the 1997 model year, and jumped straight to the C5 Avant in 1999 in conjunction with its release in the US. The North American cars were identical with the exception of the Canadian models receiving daytime running-lights, and child-seat tethers (which were a common dealer-installed option in the US). All of the North American C5 A6 models received the 2.8 litre, 30-valve V6 engine. S6 and All-Roads were an exception to this.
In 2000 the A6 received a facelift which saw little change in the design of the car but presented a few notable changes in terms of engines. The 1.8 L engine was removed and replaced by a 2.0 L powerplant with 130 PS (96 kW). The 1.9 L TDI was tweaked into producing a maximum of 130 PS (96 kW) and 310 Nm (228 ft.lbf), receiving a 6-speed gearbox in the process. The 2.4's power was slightly upgraded and the 2.8 V6 was replaced by a 3.0 L engine boosting 220 PS (162 kW). The turbocharged 2.7 L was given a tweak on the turbo resulting in 250 PS (184 kW) and 330 Nm (244 ft.lbf), controlled by standard quattro. The V6 Diesel was also slightly modified resulting in 163 PS (120 kW) (after the second modification) and 350 Nm (258 ft.lbf). A new more powerful V6 diesel was also introduced presenting 180 bhp and 370 nm. In addition, A6's bound for North America were now available with the turbocharged 2.7 L engine and the 4.2 L V8 borrowed from the Audi A8.
Also new was the revolutionary Multitronic drive by wire continuously variable transmission, available in most front wheel drive models in the lineup. All models, except the 2.0 petrol and 1.9 TDI, were available with Audi's four wheel drive system, quattro. A four wheel drive version of the estate with raised ground clearance and slightly altered styling was sold as the Audi Allroad Quattro, Audi's first crossover SUV.
In the late years of the A6 C5 design, a monstrous Audi RS6 model was presented. Producing a staggering 450 PS (331 kW) and 560 Nm (413 ft.lbf), it propels the A6 from 0-100 km/h in 4.7 sec and on to 200 km/h in under 18 seconds. This model saw the end of the C5 design which was replaced in 2004 by a new model.
The C5 design was available with the following engines:

C5 Audi A6 avant
Engine
Cyl.
Power (PS)
1.8 20V
4
125
2.0 20V
4
130
1.8 T
4
150
2.4 30V
V6
165/170
2.8 30V
V6
193/200
3.0 30V
V6
220
2.7 T
V6
230/250
4.2
V8
300
S6 4.2
V8
340
RS6 4.2 T
V8
450
1.9 TDI
4
110/115/130
2.5 TDI
V6
150/155/163
2.5 TDI
V6
180
C6 (2004-present)

USDM Audi A6 C6
The new A6 (C6) was released in 2004. Designed by Walter De Silva, the new model is much longer (492 cm) and features more sophisticated technology. Most notably is the MMI (Multi Media Interface) which is a system controlling in-car entertainment, satellite navigation, climate control, car settings such as suspension configuration and optional electronic accessories through a central screen interface. This has the advantage of minimizing the wealth of buttons normally found on a dashboard by replacing them with controls which operate multiple devices using the integrated display. On the engine side the new FSI direct injection technology was introduced for the first time outside the race track. Although the line of engines represents the same progression as the former model, all engines were new. The Multitronic automatic transmission continues as an alternative alongside a new 6-speed Tiptronic gearbox available in the high end models. Quattro four wheel drive is available in most of the lineup, and standard in the most powerful models.
Like the previous model, the A6 is available with other body options. The Avant arrived during the course of 2005, while in China, a longer version was introduced in the same year, named A6 L. The Allroad model is slated to make its debut during 2006. The sporting S6 was introduced in the Frankfurt Motor Show, with sales beginning in early 2006. It is powered by a Lamborghini-derived V10.

Technical diagram of the quattro system used in the C6
The C6 design was available with the following engines:
Engine
Cyl.
Power (PS)
2.0 TFSI
4
170
2.4 30V
V6
177
3.2 FSI
V6
255
4.2/FSI
V8
335/350
S6 5.2
V10
435
2.0 TDI
4
140
2.7 TDI
V6
180
3.0 TDI
V6
225/233
Awards
The A6 was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 2000 and 2001. The updated 2005 A6 won the World Car of the Year award for 2005.

Audi A8
Audi A8

Manufacturer:
Audi AG, subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, Germany
Production:
1994–present
Predecessor:
Audi V8
Class:
Full-size luxury car
Body style:
4-door sedan
Platform:
FF, AWD
Similar:
BMW 7 Series Lexus LS Maserati Quattroporte Mercedes-Benz S-Class Jaguar XJ

A rare 2001 Audi A8 L 6.0 W12
The Audi A8 is a full-size luxury car built by the German automaker Audi to replace the V8 model as its flagship offering. Although the Volkswagen Phaeton, long wheelbase Jaguar XJ8 and Lexus LS 430 compete in the same size and price category as the A8, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series are often thought to be its primary rivals. On the market since 1994, it has fully established itself as a popular alternative to these long-running competitors. Most versions feature Quattro all-wheel-drive as standard as well as a multitronic or tiptronic automatic transmission.
First generation (1994-2003)
The A8 debuted in Europe in 1994, although it wasn't until 1997 that it became available in North America. Unlike the V8 model, which was built on an existing steel platform, the A8 debuted on Audi's then-new D2 platform, an all aluminum space frame which helped to significantly reduce weight without being any less rigid.
In addition to being the world's first car built on an entirely aluminum platform, updates to the car in 1997 included the addition of six interior airbags, making the A8 the first vehicle to be so equipped.
For 2001, Audi introduced their new W12 engine, a compact 6.0 L unit developed by mating two 3.0 L VR6 engines together at the crankshaft, similar to the 3.6 L engine from the V8 model which had been created by mating two inline-four cylinder engines at the crankshaft. The engine quickly became available in the A8, although only to European and Asian customers and only in long-wheelbase versions of the car. From its introduction through its discontinuation in 2003, only 750 of the W12 models were produced.
Second generation (2003-current)
A second generation went on sale early in 2003 using Audi's D3 platform. The model was longer than before, with room for five adult occupants in the cabin, including enough legroom in the rear for six-footers-plus to stretch out in the rear in absolute comfort.
Audi restyled the D3 platform A8 range slightly in 2005, endowing all variants with a tall and wide so-called single-frame grille inspired that of the Nuvolari concept car. The top-of-the-line 12-cylinder W12 version was the first to be equipped with this grille before it was introduced to less potent A8s. Subsequently, all current Audi models down to the Audi A3 have adopted this controversial styling element. In addition to the styling update, new engines became available to European and Asian market customers. The entry-level 3.0 V6 was replaced by a new 3.2 L unit featuring FSI, which it shares with the new A4. More significantly was the introduction of a 4.2 L Diesel V8 engine generating 240 kW (326 PS) of power, the most powerful Diesel engine Audi has ever offered in a passenger automobile. The engine uses two turbochargers and two intercoolers with each turbocharger functioning exclusively for one set of four cylinders.
The A8 is available with the following wide range of engines:
3.0 L (2967 cc) V6 TDI, 171 kW (233 PS), 0–100 km/h in 8.0 s
3.2 L (3123 cc) V6 FSI, 191 kW (260 PS), 0–100 km/h in 8.0 s
4.2 L (4134 cc) V8 TDI, 240 kW (326 PS), 0–100 km/h in 6.0 s
4.2 L (4163 cc) V8 FSI, 257 kW (350 PS), 0–100 km/h in 6.1 s
6.0 L (5998 cc) W12 FSI, 331 kW (450 PS), 0–100 km/h in 5.2 s
In most markets outside Europe, only the 4.2 V8 and 6.0 W12 petrol powerplants are available.
Audi S8

2003 Audi S8
In 2001, Audi introduced an S8 variant in the vein of Mercedes-Benz AMG models. Although it shared the standard model's platform, it featured a re-tuned, 360 PS (265 kW) version of the standard V8 engine, a re-tuned suspension with larger wheels and upgraded tires, enlarged brakes and a re-calibrated version of the 5-speed Tiptronic transmission (European-spec models had a 6-speed manual transmission option); quattro was standard. Production of the first-generation S8 ended in 2003, shortly before the introduction of the D3 platform A8.
In the last quarter of 2005, Audi introduced a new S8, now powered by a 450 PS (331 kW) V10 engine derived from the 5.0 L V10 used in the Lamborghini Gallardo. Much public confusion surrounded this engine choice after Audi's initial announcement because its power output is identical to that of the W12 motor, prompting people to ask why Audi would bother with the development of the V10.

2006 Audi S8
However, Audi claims that the V10 revs more quickly than the W12, and that its lighter weight helps give the S8 a lower overall curb weight and better weight distribution (the SWB model being 20 kg lighter). Initial reviews from European automotive magazines seem generally positive.
Audi's factory performance claims for the V10 S8 indicate a 0-100 km/h time of 5.1 seconds. This would put it in a competitive range with the Mercedes-Benz S 55 AMG and the S600 (powered by a twin-turbo V12), the BMW 760Li (powered by a naturally-aspirated 12 cylinder engine) and the company's own A8L W12, although the upcoming version of the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG will be faster, albeit at a much higher price.
The previous S8 came to popular prominence after the movie Ronin, starring Robert De Niro, where its dramatic speed combined with its size became a useful plot element, and gained the car much international attention.
A8 Coupé

1997 Audi A8 Coupé built by IVM Automotive
In 1997, IVM Automotive of Munich, Germany built a 2-door Audi A8 Coupé. The car was unveiled at the 1997 Geneva Motor Show. Audi hired IVM to build the prototype, and was considering production of the vehicle. The coupé had a re-engineered alloy body shorter than the production A8 sedan. Like the Mercedes-Benz CL-Class, there was no central pillar, giving the car a seamless design with a gradually sloping roofline. The car included custom leather seats and could seat four. Ultimately, Audi decided not to put the coupé into production, citing lower-than-expected sales figures for the similar BMW 8 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupé. Only one A8 Coupé was ever built. The single prototype, painted a color called "Ming Blue Pearl," remains the property of IVM Automotive and resides in Munich. Its last public appearance was in 2002 on a series of test drives. As of 2006, there are still no plans for an A8 coupé series.

Audi Q7

Audi Q7

Manufacturer:
Volkswagen AG
Production:
2006–present
Class:
Full-size luxury SUV
Body style:
4-door SUV
Platform:
AWD
Engine:
4.2 L V8
Transmission:
6-speed automatic
Wheelbase:
118.2 in (3002 mm)
Length:
200.2 in (5085 mm)
Width:
78.1 in (1984 mm)
Height:
66.8 in (1697 mm)
Curb weight:
4950 lb (2245 kg)
Related:
Porsche Cayenne Volkswagen Touareg
Similar:
Cadillac Escalade Land Rover Range Rover Lexus LX Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
The Audi Q7 is a full-size luxury SUV produced by the German automaker Audi since 2006, released at the same time as the competing Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. The Q denotes a new family of vehicles for Audi, designated the 7 in its placement between the Audi A6 and Audi A8.
The Q7 shares rides on the Volkswagen E platform. Based on the Audi Pikes Peak Quattro concept car, the Q7 is designed more for on-road use even than its Volkswagen cousin. It has faired comparatively poorly in road tests involving off-road driving, being described in The Times as "absolutely useless". It lacks the Touareg's locking differentials and low-range transfer case but gains a third-row seating option. The production model was unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show in January 2006.
Audi's 350 PS (257 kW), 440 N·m (325 ft·lbf) 4.2 L (4163 cc) V8 and 280 PS (206 kW) V6 3.6 L gasoline engines are offered, with a 233 PS (171 kW) V6 Diesel engine making up the bulk of the sales in Europe.
Lawsuit on the use of the letter Q
In early 2005, Nissan sued Audi over the use of the letter "Q" as a model name. Audi is using the "Q" for the designation of their quattro all wheel drive system used in production cars for over twenty-five years (Audi's "quattro" trademark is actually an umbrella term for several types of all wheel drive systems developed by Haldex AB, Torsen and Borg-Warner, the latter being used in the Q7). Nissan's Infiniti marque had been using Q as the name for sedans (the Q45) and SUVs (the QX4 and QX56) since 1989.
Trivia
The song playing during the Audi Q7 is Streets of Tomorrow, sung by Carla Vallet. [1].

Audi Allroad Quattro
Audi allroad Quattro
Manufacturer:
Volkswagen AG
Production:
2000–2005
Class:
Crossover
Body style:
5-door wagon
Related:
Audi A6
Similar:
Subaru Outback Holden Adventura
The Audi allroad Quattro was an Wagon crossover automobile produced by Audi from 2000 to 2006. The allroad Quattro remains in production in the UK.
Model Information
The allroad shares its platform with the second generation "C5" A6 Avant (station wagon), although an advanced air suspension, larger wheels with all-terrain tires and flared and unpainted bumpers give it a distinct appearance and more overall flexibility over varying terrain; Audi's quattro system is standard equipment.
Audi's 2.7 L, twin-turbo V6 was available initially, alongside the 2.5 L TDI Diesel engines with 132 kW (180 PS) and 370 N·m (273 ft·lbf) torque. A variant of the corporate 4.2 V8, shared with the A6 sedan, was made available in 2003, first in North America and later in other markets, and a less potent TDI followed in 2004.
The allroad was designed with the capability to tackle rough road conditions in mind; its standard adjustable air suspension system can lift the car high enough to provide 21 cm (8.3 in) of ground clearance and a low-range mode, absent from other quattro equipped vehicles, can be selected with the touch of a button. When used in conjunction, the two systems made it possible for the allroad to complete a Land Rover test-course, thus far it is the only car-based SUV that has been proven capable of doing so in testing. Conversely, the air suspension can lower the vehicle down to only 16 cm (5.5 in) above road level and simultaneously stiffen the spring and damper rates to provide a sporty driving experience much like that of the Audi S6. Many owners choose to fit their allroad with a sportier, road oriented tire to emphasize it's sporty side, as most owners will never venture onto terrain rough enough to necessitate having a tire specifically designed for off-road conditions.
Sales
Despite this versatility and generally positive word of mouth from owners and magazine reviews, allroad sales failed expectations in the North American market it was originally designed for, and most of its sales came from Europe, especially its native Germany. Its somewhat high price, lack of market identity in its segment and Audi's ambiguous advertising seem to have been the primary contributing factors; buyers who tend to normally seek either the more car-like look and ride of station wagons or the larger, less ambiguous styling of mid-sized, truck based SUVs tended to reject the Allroad as being too little like either.
Sales had a slight increase in 2004, due to the availability of the less expensive Diesel engine, but fell again in 2005. Audi stopped production of the allroad in July of that year. Although the model continued to be available for sale throughout 2006 in Europe, there was no 2006 model year for North America.
Audi concentrated instead on launching the larger Audi Q7 SUV, which shares its platform with the Porsche Cayenne and VW Touareg, while a smaller and sportier Q5 will fill the niche of car-based SUV. Audi announced in the spring of 2005 that a new Allroad Quattro, based on the new A6 Avant would enter production in 2006; to date this model has received critical acclaim thanks to a lower price than the larger Q7, an enjoyable driving experience, some off-road credentials and, of course, a superb quality cabin.
New Allroad
Audi released the all-new Allroad in the summer of 2006. The car features Quattro four-wheel drive and is powered by two FSI engines (3.2 L V6 and 4.2 L V8) and two TDI engines, a 180 PS (132 kW) 2.7 L and a 233 PS (171 kW) 3.0 L. The Tiptronic gearbox is standard on the 4.2 V8 and the 2.7 TDI, but optional on the 3.2 FSI and 3.0 TDI. The car rides slightly higher than the Audi A6 Avant upon which it is based, and features a number of off-road styling cues including larger bumpers and sills. In some European markets, the new Allroad is more expensive, than the larger Q7. Un its native Germany, it costs between 1100€ and 1700€ more[1].
Audi RS4

The Audi RS4 is the highest performance version of the company's A4, sitting above the S4 in the lineup.
B5 RS4 (2000–2002)

A red, B5 platform RS4
Audi introduced the first generation RS4 in 2000 as the successor to the fabled Porsche developed/RS2. The vehicle, like its predecessor, was available only as an Estate/Avant (station wagon), and was built on an existing platform, in this case the "B5" generation A4/S4. Base price was around 103,584 Deutsche Mark, and was not available for sale in the United States of America. The RS4 was available for sale in most of Europe and in some Latin American countries, including Mexico and Brazil.
Power came from a modified version of the B5 S4's 2.7 L, twin-turbocharged V6 engine tuned by Cosworth Technology, featuring enlarged intake/exhaust ports on the cylinder heads, turbochargers and intercoolers, new induction and exhaust systems and a re-calibrated engine management system; a six-speed manual transmission and Audi's Quattro all wheel drive system were part of the package. The modifications were enough to bump the engine's power output from the 265 PS (195 kW/261 hp) and 350 Nm (257 ft·lbf) of the S4 to 380 PS (280 kW/375 hp) and 440 Nm (325 ft·lbf).
Even with a curb weight of 1620 kg (3568 lb), the RS4's powerful engine gave it the performance of a sports car. The 100 km/h (62 mph) mark could be reached in only 4.7 seconds and the 160 km/h (100 mph) could be achieved in just 11.6. Brakes were also developed in house by Audi/Cosworth Technologies not by Porsche as with the RS2. It now has 360 mm (14.2 inches) rotors at the front and 312 mm (12.2 inches) at the rear gave the RS4 braking to match, needing less than 50 m (155 ft) to come to a full stop from a speed of 110 km/h (69 mph).
RS4 production stopped in 2001, although the last several units sold were registered as 2002 models.
B7 RS4 (2005—)

A B7 generation RS4 sedan.
After a long hiatus, the second generation RS4, now built on Audi's "B7" A4 platform, became available to European customers in the Summer of 2005. Price is roughly 66,629€ in Europe. It was introduced at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in January and will arrive in August 2006 in North America with a base price of $66,000.
The B7 RS4 is an almost complete departure from previous RS cars, as it will debut as a sedan, with an Avant and Convertible version coming later; only the RS6 has gone this route before, the previous RS4 and RS2 were available exclusively as Avants. In addition, power comes from an FSI equipped, naturally aspirated 4.2 L V8, whereas all previous RS cars have been turbocharged. Nonetheless, this engine is very powerful, producing a total output of 420 PS (309 kW/414 hp), over 100 PS/litre. The engine also produced 317 ft·lbf (430 N·m) of torque.
Audi factory numbers indicate that the vehicle will be able to go 0-100 km (62 mph) in 4.8 seconds. Since Audi's factory times tend to be conservative, most experts seem to agree that a time under 4.5 seconds is a likely possibility.
BMW's upcoming, V8 powered M3 will be the RS4's primary competitor based on its pricepoint and it being the only other vehicle in the class with as much emphasis on sporty driving as the RS4. Mercedes Benz's AMG variant of the C-Class (currently the C 55 AMG) also provides some secondary competition.
Audi RS6

2004 Audi RS6
The Audi RS6 was a high-performance version of Audi's 2nd generation (1997-2005) A6, and was available as both a sedan and a wagon (called Avant by Audi). It was second at the top of the A6 lineup, above the A6 2.7T and 4.2 and the lesser S6, and was exceeded in power and price only by the RS6 Plus. It effectively replaced both the S6 4.2 and S6 Plus models of 1995.
Model Information
The RS6 featured a twin-turbocharged version of the corporate 4.2 Litre V8 engine tuned by Cosworth Technologies (Now known as Mahle Powertrain), which had originally been developed for the 1994 A8. With the aid of the turbochargers, output rose to 444 hp (331 kW) and 415 ft·lbf (560 Nm) of torque. The combination of the V-8 and the turbochargers helped give the RS6 an exceptionally wide power band, with peak torque available from 1950 to 5600 RPMs.
The RS6 was available only with Audi's Quattro All-Wheel Drive system and a 5-speed "Tiptronic" transmission, the same unit that was being used in the W12 powered A8, chosen because none of Audi's manual transmissions could cope with the RS6's high torque output. The RS6 also served as the debut model for Audi's Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) system. The system is mainly mechanical, and uses a pump to keep pressure in the shock abosorbers during cornering to counteract rolling and pitching. The system is "intelligent", it is able to adjust the stiffness at each shock absorber constantly to maintain both a comfortable ride and high grip. However, DRC's main advantage is that it operates without the need for most of the complicated electronics required in similar systems from Mercedes Benz and other competitors.
According to testing by Car and Driver magazine, the RS6 can accelerate from 0 - 60 mph (0 - 96.6 km/h) in just 4.4 seconds, 0 - 100 in 10.7 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h), however the vehicle can reportedly hit 170 miles per hour or more in unlimited form. It can stop from 60 mph (96.6 to 0 km/h) in 118 feet (35.97m), thanks to its large 365/335 mm (14.4/13.2 in) front/rear brakes, and an uncommon eight-piston design in the front.
There was also an RS6 Plus version of the car producing over 480 bhp and topping 180 mph. The car came only as an avant and was sold only in European markets. It lasted for just one model year but quickly sold out once it was released.
New versions of the S6 and RS6 will soon be in development, based on the new A6 platform, which was introduced in 2005 for the 2006 model year.
While about 8000 RS6s were produced worldwide, approximately 1,200 units were sold in North America. A small community of RS6 owners exists in North America and some refer to the vehicle as "The Beast" or "The Lord of the Rings" (in reference to Audi's interlocking ring logo). RS stands for RennSport - Racing in German, fitting as the RS line of cars from Audi are the most performance oriented of all Audis.
Awards
The 4.2 V8 engine in its base configuration was named as one of the Ward’s Auto World "10 Best Engines for 2005".
The RS6's combination of performance, handling (AWD), luxury and available space are unique and it was chosen over its closest competitors, the BMW M5, Jaguar S-Type R, and Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG by Car and Driver magazine.
Audi S3

2003 Audi S3, dolphin gray.
The Audi S3 is a hot hatch version of the A3 small family car, built by the German automaker Audi.
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First generation (8L) 1999-2003
Overview
The first generation S3 is built on the same A platform of the Audi A3, Volkswagen Golf, Audi TT, SEAT León and Škoda Octavia. The straight-4 20V 1.8 L turbocharged petrol engine comes in two versions of power output: 210 bhp and 225 bhp. Early models (1999-2002) had 210 bhp which is said to be de-tuned Audi TT engine and was specifically reduced to lessen brand competition with the more powerful TT. Later models (2002-2003) had variable valve timing and 225 bhp. The engine provides a maximum 280 N•m of torque, most of which is available from 2200 through to 5500 rpm. This is the first time a small four-cylinder engine has been used in an Audi S-series car.
Although dubbed Quattro, the S3 uses a different four-wheel drive system. The Haldex coupling adjusts the bias from the front to rear axle as grip changes - most of the time it operates as a front-wheel drive.
The S3 was sold in the United Kingdom, Europe and Australia, but was not officially marketed in the United States.
The S3 was facelifted in 2001, where it was given one-piece headlights/indicator units, different front wings, rear lights clusters and some minor upgrades to interior trim (e.g. a digital clock and audio packages).
Equipment
Standard features include xenon HID headlamps with high pressure washers, front fog lamps, 17 in "Avus" alloy wheels with 225/45R17 tires, electrically adjustable Recaro leather seats, climate control, alarm and electronic traction control/stability program. Options include a Bose sound system, boot/trunk mounted 6 disc CD changer, metallic paint, 18 inch 9-spoke RSTT wheels, glass sunroof, centre arm rest, auto dipping rear view mirror, parking assist, luggage net, heated front seats, cruise control, aluminium door mirror casings and part leather/Alcantara (blue/silver/yellow) combination seat coverings.

Second generation (8P) (2006-)
The second generation Audi S3 has 195 kW (265 bhp) and quattro permanent four-wheel drive making 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h. The two-litre, turbocharged four-cylinder engine has FSI petrol direct injection.
Audi S4
Audi S4
Manufacturer:
Volkswagen AG
Production:
1991–
Class:
Sports sedan
Body style:
4-door sedan
First generation

Production:
1991–1994
Engine:
2.2 L 20-valve turbo I54.2 L 32-valve V8
Related:
Audi 100 (C4)
Second generation

Production:
1997–2002
Engine:
2.7 L 30-valve biturbo V6
Related:
Audi A4 (B5)
Third generation

Production:
2003–2005
Engine:
4.2 L 40-valve V8
Related:
Audi A4 (B6)
Fourth generation

Production:
2005–
Engine:
4.2 L 40-valve V8
Related:
Audi A4 (B7)
The current Audi S4 is a high performance sport version of the popular Audi A4. The S4 name was originally used for the sport version of the Audi 100.
First generation (1991-1994)
Audi was re-configuring its lineup during the early 1990s, and introduced the S4 in 1991 as the performance version of the re-styled 100 sedan. Despite sharing its basic structure with the 100, the S4 effectively took the place of the 200 Turbo-Quattro sedan, which had been discontinued the year before.
The S4 was sold worldwide with a turbocharged version of Audi's 2.2 L (2226 cc), 20-valve inline-5 engine developing 230 PS (227 hp/169 kW) and 350 N·m (258 ft·lbf) of torque. A 280 PS (276 hp/206 kW) 4.2 V8 became available to European customers as an option. Quattro all-wheel-drive and a manual transmission (six-speed in Europe, five-speed in North America) were standard equipment.
After Audi dropped the 100 nameplate and re-badged the car as A6 in 1994, the S4 became the S6, although the only real changes to the model were minor cosmetic updates and the addition of a more powerful S6 Plus model to the lineup. After the first generation A6 was replaced in 1998 by an updated version, the S4 and S6 became distinctly separate from one another.
Being the first in the S4 lineup, it is commonly referred to as the UrS4.
Second generation (1997-2002)
The second generation S4 debuted in 1997 as part of the B5 platform A4 line-up. Although the S4 was no longer available with a V8, its 2.7 L, twin-turbocharged V6 engine was more than adequate, producing 265 PS (195 kW/261 hp) in European trim. The engine was slightly detuned to meet US emissions regulations, and power stopped at 250 hp / 258 ft. lbs. torque in North America.

Audi S4 Avant
In addition to the sedan, a wagon version, the Audi S4 Avant, was introduced into the lineup from 1999.
The S4 could accelerate up to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a mere 5.6 seconds and had an electronically-limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph), making it both the quickest sedan in the Audi model line and among the quickest sedans in the world at that time. As in the previous S4, a six-speed manual transmission was standard equipment, as was the quattro all-wheel-drive. A five-speed Tiptronic transmission became available for the first time as an option. Production ceased on the B5 S4 in 2001.
The B5 S4 has a devoted enthusiast community that focuses on attaining supercar-level power and performance. Currently, the B5 S4 is considered the most potentially powerful of the S4 lineup. Being a turbocharged car, it can gain significant power by simply upgrading the engine management software. By replacing the K03 turbos with the larger RS4's K04 turbos, aftermarket and home tuners can easily increase power to the 450 hp (335 kW) range.
Third generation (2003-2005)
The third generation, B6 platform S4 debuted in mid-2003. Despite having moved to yet another entirely new platform, the S4's most publicized new feature was its engine. It became available in three bodystyles for the 2004 model year: the S4 sedan, the S4 Avant wagon and a convertible, the Audi S4 Cabriolet.
Replacing the 2.7 L bi-turbo V6 engine of the previous generation S4 was a 4.2 L, 40-valve V8 based on the unit from the A8 and producing 344 PS (253 kW/340 hp), making it more potent than either the S6 Plus or RS2 and nearly as powerful as the B5 platform RS4.
With such abundant power on tap, the B6 S4 could accelerate quickly enough to meet or beat the times of most sports cars. Road tests conducted by American automotive magazines indicated that it could go from a standstill to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, and make it to 200 km/h (124 mph) in slightly over 20 seconds.
Like its predecessors, the model was standard with a six-speed manual and Quattro, the Tiptronic transmission remained an option. The B6 platform S4 was replaced by the B7 platform S4 in late-2005.
Fourth generation (2005- )
The B7 platform S4 is the most recent version of the vehicle, having debuted in late 2005. Although Audi classifies it as a new car, the differences between it and the outgoing B6 S4 are primarily cosmetic.
Audi has, however, made a few notable changes, including adding new springs and dampers to the suspension and re-calibrating the quattro system to maintain a 40:60 front-to-rear torque split under normal conditions. The system is continuously adjustable though, and the torque split can change depending on driving conditions. The new "fish mouth" grill, narrow headlamps, "L" tail-lamps and quad exhaust tips help distinquish the B7 from the previous B6 model.
Interestingly enough, German tuner Abt Sportsline decided to forego the V8 and use a modified version of the 3.2 V6 FSI engine in a special high-performance B7 S4 it created, named Abt AS4-R. This car now has a 480 PS (353 kW/473 hp) engine, and can reach a maximum speed of 300 km/h (186 mph), surpassing 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. Changes to chassis include a stiffer adjustable suspension, with new stabilizers, 19 inch wheels and Dunlop SP Sportmaxx tyres.
Audi S6

The Audi S6 is a high-performance version of Audi's A6 sedan. It went on sale in 1994, shortly after the A6 designation was introduced, replacing the 100 nameplate. The original S6 was largely the same car as the outgoing, first generation S4, with the only visible differences being new body-cladding and badging.

1st Generation (1995-1997)
Audi was fairly constantly re-structuring their model lineup in early and mid-1990s, and in 1994 began selling the fifth generation 100 model as the A6. Wanting to keep a sports-sedan in their lineup, the company made small revisions to what had been badged as the S4, and began reselling it as the S6 - the S4 would eventually become a completely separate member of the lineup, based on Audi's A4.
For 1995, the S6 was powered by a 2.2 L turbocharged five-cylinder engine producing 230 PS (169 kW/227 hp) at 5900 rpm and 326 Nm (258 ft.lbf) at around 1950 rpm. The powerful engine gave the S6 surprisingly good performance, it had a top speed of 243 km/h (151 mph) and went from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.1 seconds; 160 km/h (99 mph) was reached in 17.5 seconds. The vehicle came standard with a six speed manual gearbox (5 speed only in the USA), and Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system. It was available as both a sedan and an "Avant" (station wagon) to European customers, but only as a sedan in North America (except as a 1995.5 model,) Asia and Australia.
Audi had made a high-performance, 4.2 L V8 available as an option in the first generation European S4s, and made the decision to continue to do so with the S6, making a 290 PS (213 kW/286 hp) version of the 4.2 available as an optional upgrade over the 5-cylinder. Unlike the turbocharged version, the V8-powered S6 was shipped with automatic transmission by default, but kept the Quattro four wheel drive. A 6-speed manual gearbox was available as an option.
An even more powerful and very limited-production S6 Plus, powered by another version of the V8 (later to be seen in the Audi S8), was briefly available to European customers. Developed by Quattro GmbH, it was available for sale only during the 1997 model year. Only 952 cars were produced in total - 855 Avant (Estate) and 97 Limousines. Audi's performance division reworked key parts of the engine and increased the power output to 326 PS (240 kW/322 hp). During this process they also made revisions to the suspension, brakes and transmission. With so much power on tap, the S6 Plus could reach 100 km/h (62 mph) from a standstill in less than six seconds, making it compareable in terms of accleration to vehicles like the Porsche 944 Turbo.
2nd Generation (1998-2003)

2nd Gen Audi S6 4.2L V8
In 1997, Audi introduced the second generation A6 models. It was a complete re-design, and a new S6 appeared a year later on the new platform. It was powered by a 4.2 L 40 valve V8 engine with 340 PS (335 hp/250 kW) at 7000 rpm and 420 N·m (310 ft·lbf) at 3400 rpm, a variation of the engine from the A8. The vehicle could now go from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and from 0-200 km/h (124 mph) in just 21.7 seconds. The top speed was electronically governed to 250 km/h (155 mph). Quattro was again standard, as was a six speed manual gearboxwith the optional 5-speed Tiptronic. Other features included a 10mm lower body, aluminum hood and front side panels, aluminum subframes and 255/40 ZR tires riding on 17" cast aluminum wheels.
The second generation S6 went out of production in 2003.
A higher performance RS6 was also available, using a twin-turbo version of the 4.2 L V8 engine.
3rd Generation (2006-)

3rd Gen Audi S6 5.2L V10
The third-generation S6 was introduced in the 2006 North American International Auto Show in January. It features a 5.2 L V10 derived from the Lamborghini Gallardo, detuned to produce "only" 420 PS (309 kW/414 hp). A six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission is standard.

Audi TT
Audi TT

Manufacturer:
Volkswagen AG
Production:
1999–present
Class:
Luxury sports car
Body style:
2-door coupé2-door roadster
Platform:
FF, AWD A
Related:
Audi A3 Volkswagen Golf Skoda Octavia SEAT León
Similar:
BMW Z4 Mercedes-Benz SLK Chrysler Crossfire
The Audi TT is a sports car produced by Audi since 1998 in Győr, Hungary.
TT concept
The TT was first shown as a concept car at the 1995 Frankfurt Motor Show. The design is credited to J Mays and Freeman Thomas of Volkswagen's California design studio. The name is an abbreviation of "Tourist Trophy", an annual road race on the Isle of Man (see: Isle of Man TT), not "twin turbo" as is sometimes assumed. Turbocharged models only feature a single turbocharger. It also refers back to the NSU TT, a small rear-engine model with a formidable racing pedigree that NSU produced in the 1960s and was based on the NSU Prinz, although the modern TT shares next to nothing with that model's design concepts.
TT design
The TT's styling is regarded by many as a watershed moment in automobile design. From its introduction as a concept car in 1995, and as a production car in 1998, the design was regarded by many as bold, innovative, and evolutionary. While the car borrowed a few design elements from earlier vehicles, the overall design was considered by many to be truly unique. With its distinctive, rounded bodywork, bold use of bare anodized aluminum, and a lack of defined bumpers, the TT represented a departure from much of the styling that dominated the car market at that time.
The success and popularity of the TT's iconic design gave many automotive designers (and manufacturers) greater latitude to experiment with bold, distinctive design. The TT's influence can be seen in the design elements of many vehicles released after the TT.
The TT is often regarded as the vehicle that made people take a second look at Audi. No longer just a second-tier European maker, Audi emerged as a serious competitor for the likes of BMW and Mercedes-Benz. The then-new B5-platform A4 model was a substantial improvement on its Audi 80 predecessor; these two models firmly secured Audi's position as a prestige marque.
The drag coefficient of the body is a disappointing 0.35 [1].
]
First generation

first generation
The production model was launched as a coupé in September 1998, followed by a roadster in August 1999, based on the Volkswagen A platform used for the Volkswagen Golf, Skoda Octavia and others. The TT uses a transversely mounted engine with front or quattro all wheel drive. It was first available with a 1.8 L turbocharged inline four cylinder 20-valve engine. For the first two years of production, both front wheel drive and quattro models featured a 180 PS (132 kW) version of this engine. In 2001, a more powerful Quattro model was released which was equipped with a 225 PS (165 kW) engine which shares the same basic design but features a larger turbocharger, an additional intercooler on the driver's side, forged connecting rods, a dual exhaust, and a few other internals designed to accommodate the increase in turbo boost from roughly 10 psi peak to 15.
All TT models were recalled in late 1999/early 2000 following concerns over the car's handling which was considered unstable under high-speed cornering as the result of throttle lift-off oversteer - a number of modifications were made, which were subsequently incorporated into all future examples: rear-wing spoilers were fitted (to reduce lift) and suspension settings were altered (to increase understeer). The original four cylinder engine range was complemented with a 250 PS (184 kW) 3.2 L VR6 in early 2003, which comes with the quattro all-wheel drive system. In October 2004 a new DSG (dual-clutch) gearbox, which improves acceleration through drastically reduced shift time, was offered along with a stiffer suspension.
Audi has developed the TT with some notable improvements, including a lightened and power-boosted "quattro Sport" model, and 240 PS (176 kW) and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph), however the handling and steering are considered by BBC's Top Gear presenter, Jeremy Clarkson, to be "boring". It compares with the Nissan 350Z which has more grip. It should be noted, however, that the TT's handling character is deliberate, as Audi vehicles are generally designed to exhibit understeer (a characteristic determined by suspension design, the effect of the quattro all-wheel drive system, and other factors). Understeer is inherently a safer handling characteristic, as it is easier for novice and casual drivers to predict and control the vehicle (and thus the car can appeal to a much broader market). Sports car purists and driving enthusiasts, however, generally favor oversteer (which the Nissan 350Z exhibits) to understeer, as the former makes for a more involving and spirited driving experience.
The 2006 TT model was pulled from California and other states that had adopted California emission standards because the 2006 Audi TT did not meet with these states' emissions standards. The statement on Audi of America's site (www.audiusa.com) reads: "The 2006 Audi TT models do not meet California emission standards and cannot be sold in California or in those states that have adopted California emission standards, i.e., New York, Massachusetts, Vermont or Maine. TT models from model year 2005 and earlier may be available in these states through our Certified pre-owned program. Contact your dealer for more information."
Second generation

second generation
In August 2004, Audi announced that the next-generation TT will be made of aluminum and would go into production in 2007. A TT concept (the Audi Shooting Brake) was shown at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2005. This concept featured angular styling and a "shooting brake" 2-door hatchback body style.[1]
Audi revealed the second-generation TT on April 6, 2006. It is constructed of aluminum in the front and steel in the rear to enhance its balance and is available in front- or all-wheel drive. The production car uses of the 3.2 L V6 engine, with 250 PS (184 kW), as well as a 200 PS (147 kW) version of Audi's direct injection 2.0 L four. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard, with the DSG as an option, and Quattro all wheel drive is standard with the V6. Audi's new active suspension, Audi Magnetic Ride, will be available and is based on Delphi's MagneRide. It will again be offered as a 2+2 coupé with a roadster coming for 2008. A wagon version is rumored as well.[2]
Awards
The TT was nominated for the North American Car of the Year award for 2000. It was also on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 2000 and 2001. The Audi TT Roadster also won "Gay Car of the Year" in 2004 Gay Awards
Audi R10

Audi R10
The Audi R10 is a sports-racing car prepared for sports car racing in the LMP1 class of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The car was unveiled Tuesday, December 13, 2005 at 12:00 CET, and went on to win both its maiden race at the 2006 12 Hours of Sebring and the 2006 24 Hours of Le Mans. It was the first diesel to win either of those events. The Audi R10 project costs Audi €70 Million per year.[1] This is the most ambitious and the most expensive project ever undertaken by Audi Motorsport.
Chassis
It supersedes the previous Audi R8, a proven model which won five times at Le Mans since 2000 while earning a reputation as one of the most successful racing cars of all time. In later years the ACO, who sets the rules for racing in the Le Mans 24 Hours, has reduced the restrictor size on the engine, and stipulated the R8 carry ballast, to make the races more competitive. In response to the new level of competition the development of a successor was necessary.
Though it bears a strong resemblance to the previous model, it is nevertheless a new design. The aerodynamic package is in compliance with the new regulations. A second rollover cage is added and the wheelbase is lengthened to accept the new, longer V12 TDI engine.
At the beginning of the 2006 season, homologation rules for LMP cars were changed, for the LMP1 class, an increase in minimum weight from 900 kg to 925 kg was mandated. While officially, this is to allow closed top prototypes to run with air-conditioning (as this would have added weight over open tops cars), some have speculated that this done at the behest of Audi to allow the R10 to be competitive.[2] The R10 itself, as it ran during the 2006 12 Hours of Sebring was overweight at 935 kg, meaning that the engineers did not have the ability to play around with the weight ballasts (which would have been used to bring the car up to minimum weight if it were lighter than 925kg) to affect handling and balance.[3]
Engine

Audi V12 TDI turbo diesel engine
The main novelty of the R10 is its engine: a TDI Turbo Diesel engine, running on Shell V-Power Diesel. It is a 5.5 L (335.6 ci) all-aluminium bi-turbo 90° V12, with common rail direct injection of more than 1600 bar. Its output should be 650 hp (485 kW) (regulated) and 1100 N·m (811 ft·lbf) of torque, and its usable power band is between 3000 and 5000 rpm. Its benefits are a broad range of usable power, high torque and economy. Two Garrett turbochargers limited by the regulations to 2.94 bar absolute breathe through two 39.9 mm intake air restrictors. It uses the latest Bosch Motronic (MS14) management, provided by Bosch Motorsport, 1600 bar piezo injectors, and makes a low noise for a race car.
It will be difficult for Audi to overcome the weight of this engine. The latest Audi TDI 3.0 L (183 ci) V6 weighs 220 kg (485 lb) and the 4.2 L V8 255 kg (256.2 ci, 562 lb) but their blocks are made of CGI iron. The V12 is rumoured to weigh upwards of 200 kg,[4] Audi engineers admit that the weight per cylinder is the same as the precededing 3.6-litre FSI V8 of the Audi R8.[5] The wheelbase has been increased over the R8 to 2980 mm to account for this. This is unfavorable against the 130 kg (287 lb) of a concurrent Judd V10, and even the 180 kg of the Ricardo turbodiesel prototype based on it.[6]
Audi's decision to use a diesel engine emphasizes the commercial success of TDI (and its competitors) on Europe's roads. It isn't however, the first diesel to be raced at Le Mans. In 2004 a Lola equipped with a Caterpillar re-badged VW V10 TDI ran for a few hours before breaking its gearbox. The first diesel-engined car to qualify and race at the 24 h race at Le Mans was a French entry in 1949, the first race held after the war. The car was the Delettrez Diesel entered by brothers Jean and Jacques Delettrez and was of 4395 cc 6-cylinder. It did not finish, running out of fuel about half way into the race. Delettrez entered again in 1950, as did another diesel car, the MAP. Again both cars DNF with engine problems, a cooling system leak in the case of the MAP. The MAP was interesting in that it was the first mid-engined car to race at Le Mans, the engine was located immediately behind the driver, and was a two-cylinder opposed piston two-stroke with rocking levers connected to a single crank, similar to the later Commer TS3 engine. Peugeot will compete with its new diesel effort in 2007 in its 908
Diesels in Racing
Diesels have made their mark in other forms of racing as well, as their superior torque and fuel economy can prove advantageous, while in turn, the higher weight and low revs of the engine is a disadvantage, requiring new power drive systems, too. Also, the rules have to accommodate the need for a high capacity engine with a turbocharger and high boost, something which is strictly regulated or no longer allowed for gasoline engines, as these had developed over 1000 hp in several race series of the past.
As early as 1931, Dave Evans, piloting the Cummins Diesel Special, became the first driver to complete the Indianapolis 500 without making a single pit stop. Evans completed the full distance on the lead lap and finished 13th. When Diesel technology made progess in the 1990s and rule makers supported the concept, BMW and Volkswagen raced diesel touring cars, with BMW winning the 1998 24 Hours Nürburgring mainly by being able to drive very long turns. In 2006, a BMW 120d repeated a similar result, scoring 5th in a field of 220 cars, many of them much more powerful, a significantly stronger competition than in 1998. Peugeot will follow Audi and develop a diesel powered endurance car for 2007: the Peugeot 908. The 908 will be more powerful and have more torque than the R10.
The Volkswagen Group itself uses a specially equipped diesel race Volkswagen Touareg at the Paris Dakar Rally, trying to score the first overall victory for a Diesel there.
Results

#8 winner in front of the #7, 2006 24 Hours of Le Mans
On 18 March 2006, the #2 Audi R10 won the 54th annual 12 Hours of Sebring after earning pole position by setting a qualifying record. The #1 car did not finish due to an overheating problem.
On 18 June 2006, the #8 Audi R10 placed first at the 2006 24 Hours of Le Mans, completing 380 laps, more than the R8 did, but less than others since 1967, see List of Le Mans 24h winners. The #7 Audi R10, which set fastest lap times in practice and race, came in third after suffering engine and turbo issues, completing 367 laps. At one point, the Joest team changed the #8 car's gearbox in under ten minutes, [7] compared to the hour and a half the fifth-place Pescarolo-Judd spent in the garage for similar repairs.

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Friday, August 24, 2007

Audi

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