1989 AUDI QUATTRO

This Audi Quattro is an impressive example of the iconic ‘everyman’ performance car, which benefits from a subtle but significant powertrain upgrade, while retaining its original appearance. While originally fitted with a 10-valve MB engine, this car is now equipped with the 2.2-litre 20-valve turbocharged five-cylinder unit from a later S2, which has been tuned to around 300bhp. It is coupled to a five-speed manual transmission and the Quattro four-wheel drive system.

First registered on 1 August 1988, there are six previous registered keepers on the log book, and it is understood to have temporarily resided in Belgium at some point - though there is no record of any export of overseas registration on HPI. It has been with the current owner since April 2019. While the digital odometer currently displays a reading of 38,072 miles, the seller believes the correct total is approximately 80,000 miles.

Its bodywork and paint are said to be in good condition, finished in the smart Nautical Blue colour. The seller notes a few chips around the front of the car, and a scratch on the rear spoiler. Overall, the Quattro presents very well though, as the detailed set of photos below indicates. The light lenses all appear to be in good order, and the correct badging and body decals are present. It rides on the correct 15-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, which are in superb condition.

Inside, the black leather upholstery is original and presents in good order. There are no rips or tears in the material, and only modest wear around the driver’s outer bolster that you would typically expect. The door cards were replaced by the previous owner as they had speaker holes cut into the original panels, but otherwise the rest of the trim is also believed to be original. Factory-fitted equipment includes electric windows, heated seats, and a sunroof. The seller notes that the switchgear is all functioning, and that there are no current faults with the digital dashboard.

Its last scheduled maintenance was in April 2020 at 37,500 miles. This consisted of an engine oil change, new oil filter, and replacement air and fuel filters. It was also recently serviced prior to this in March 2019, and is reporting to be in good mechanical order.

In February 2020, the car had a new camshaft timing belt and water pump fitted, and the turbocharger has also been replaced within the last month or so. In addition to the engine swap, this Quattro has also been fitted with an upgraded ECU, as well as Porsche front brake callipers.

The most recent MOT test was on 29 May 2019 at 37,493 miles, which resulted in a first-time pass with no advisories recorded. Given the six-month extension, another test is not due until 28 November 2020. The wheels are fitted with matching 215/50 R15 Dunlop SP Sport 9000 tyres, which are date-coded to 2014, and which remain in excellent condition.

Accompanying the car are the original books, and the seller notes that there is a lot of history in the file, including invoices and receipts for maintenance, and old MOT certificates. The S2 engine installation was also documented and evidenced by receipts.

This Audi Quattro is a rare modern classic, which now has significantly more power on tap than in its stock specification, but which retains its original 1980s appearance. The seller says that its evocative burble always turns heads, and of course its performance is certain to surprise and delight its next owner.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.