1983 Audi Quattro Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs
The 1983 Audi Quattro is an iconic two-door coupe, famously known for pioneering permanent all-wheel drive in a performance car. Introduced to the U.S. market in 1983, it was part of a limited run of models available from '83 to '86. While primarily offered in a single high-performance trim, its rallying success in the World Rally Championship cemented its legendary status. New, it cost around $35,000; today, well-preserved examples can fetch $40,000 to over $100,000. Its groundbreaking AWD system and potent turbocharged five-cylinder engine made it truly stand out.
The Good
The 1983 Audi Quattro offers exhilarating performance thanks to its permanent all-wheel drive and turbocharged five-cylinder engine, providing exceptional grip and acceleration. Its iconic, muscular design appeals emotionally, celebrating a golden era of rally sport. Practically, its advanced AWD system ensures superior all-weather capability. As a groundbreaking classic, it holds significant collector value, balancing a thrilling driving experience with robust, innovative engineering for its time.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 1983 Audi Quattro include complex early electronics and vacuum systems, which can lead to various electrical gremlins. Parts availability can be a significant challenge and expensive due to its rarity. Rust is a common concern, particularly in older vehicles, requiring careful inspection of body panels and undercarriage. High maintenance costs and potential for deferred upkeep by previous owners are also factors to consider.
1983 Audi Quattro: Quick Overview
Here is a summary of the 1983 Audi Quattro's key specifications:
- Engine Options: The 1983 U.S. model was exclusively fitted with a 2.1-liter (2144 cc) SOHC inline-5 turbocharged engine. This powerplant featured a K-Jetronic fuel injection system and was renowned for its distinctive five-cylinder growl.
- Horsepower: For the U.S. market, the 1983 Quattro produced approximately 160 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 170 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm. European versions, without the same emissions restrictions, offered closer to 200 hp.
- Fuel Economy: Official EPA figures are scarce and often optimistic for cars of this era, but owners could expect around 15-18 MPG combined under normal driving conditions, potentially lower with spirited driving. Efficiency was not a primary design goal.
- 0-60 MPH Times: The 1983 U.S. Quattro typically achieved 0-60 mph in the range of 7.0-7.5 seconds, impressive for its time. European models could shave off a few tenths, often reaching 60 mph in under 7 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: The Audi Quattro was not designed or typically rated for significant towing capacity. It is primarily a performance coupe.
- Trim-Level Features: The 1983 Quattro was largely offered as a single, highly equipped performance model in the U.S. Key features included:
- Permanent all-wheel drive with manually lockable center and rear differentials, allowing drivers to engage maximum traction in challenging conditions.
- A 5-speed manual transmission, the only option available.
- Four-wheel disc brakes.
- 15-inch alloy wheels.
- Full leather upholstery and sport seats.
- Power windows and power mirrors.
- Air conditioning.
- A full suite of analog gauges, including a turbo boost gauge.
- Headlight washers.
1983 Audi Quattro Specifications
No records to be displayed
Vehicle History Report
What Problems Does the 1983 Audi Quattro Have?
The 1983 Audi Quattro, while engineered to a high standard for its era, does exhibit several frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns, largely due to its age, complexity, and specialized components.
One of the most common areas of concern is the electrical system. Owners often report issues with aging wiring harnesses, intermittent functionality of gauges, power windows, and central locking. While the 1983 model still largely used analog instrumentation, later digital dashes introduced their own set of unique failures. Vacuum lines for various systems, including the differential locks, can degrade and cause operational issues.
The K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection system is another critical area. Over time, components such as the fuel distributor, warm-up regulator, and injectors can become clogged or fail, leading to hard starting, rough idling, poor performance, or hesitation. Proper tuning and maintenance of this system are crucial and require specialized knowledge.
Engine and turbocharger longevity can be affected by consistent maintenance. Turbochargers, if not properly cooled or maintained, can fail. Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, cam seals, and oil cooler lines are common. Vacuum leaks are also frequent culprits for inconsistent boost or engine performance.
The unique permanent all-wheel drive system, particularly the manually operated differential locks, can develop issues. The vacuum lines and actuators for these locks can fail, rendering the locking mechanism inoperable. Clutches are also wear items, especially with spirited driving.
Body and chassis integrity can be compromised by rust, particularly in areas like the sills, wheel arches, and around window seals, especially in regions with harsh winters. Suspension components and bushings are prone to wear, leading to compromised handling.
Recalls for a vehicle of this age and limited production volume are generally very few and far between. No widespread, major recalls are commonly cited for the 1983 U.S. model year. Instead, long-term reliability hinges heavily on diligent, specialized maintenance and the availability of rare parts, which can be both difficult to source and expensive. Deferred maintenance is the most significant factor contributing to long-term reliability issues.
One of the most common areas of concern is the electrical system. Owners often report issues with aging wiring harnesses, intermittent functionality of gauges, power windows, and central locking. While the 1983 model still largely used analog instrumentation, later digital dashes introduced their own set of unique failures. Vacuum lines for various systems, including the differential locks, can degrade and cause operational issues.
The K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection system is another critical area. Over time, components such as the fuel distributor, warm-up regulator, and injectors can become clogged or fail, leading to hard starting, rough idling, poor performance, or hesitation. Proper tuning and maintenance of this system are crucial and require specialized knowledge.
Engine and turbocharger longevity can be affected by consistent maintenance. Turbochargers, if not properly cooled or maintained, can fail. Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, cam seals, and oil cooler lines are common. Vacuum leaks are also frequent culprits for inconsistent boost or engine performance.
The unique permanent all-wheel drive system, particularly the manually operated differential locks, can develop issues. The vacuum lines and actuators for these locks can fail, rendering the locking mechanism inoperable. Clutches are also wear items, especially with spirited driving.
Body and chassis integrity can be compromised by rust, particularly in areas like the sills, wheel arches, and around window seals, especially in regions with harsh winters. Suspension components and bushings are prone to wear, leading to compromised handling.
Recalls for a vehicle of this age and limited production volume are generally very few and far between. No widespread, major recalls are commonly cited for the 1983 U.S. model year. Instead, long-term reliability hinges heavily on diligent, specialized maintenance and the availability of rare parts, which can be both difficult to source and expensive. Deferred maintenance is the most significant factor contributing to long-term reliability issues.
How long will the 1983 Audi Quattro last?
Estimating average mileage or years of service for a 1983 Audi Quattro is challenging, as many are now collector vehicles driven sparingly. However, with diligent and specialized maintenance, these cars can achieve impressive longevity. Well-cared-for examples can easily surpass 150,000 miles, and some engines have been known to run reliably beyond 200,000 miles. Many cars are still in service today, over 40 years since production, attesting to their inherent durability when properly looked after.
Long-term durability is a strong point for the core mechanical components, including the robust 5-cylinder engine block and the permanent all-wheel drive system. However, weaknesses emerge over time in peripheral systems. Electrical components, rubber hoses, plastic parts, and wiring harnesses degrade, leading to various operational issues. The complex K-Jetronic fuel injection system requires ongoing attention, and rust can become a significant structural problem if not addressed. Consistent, expert maintenance is paramount to their survival and long-term reliability.
Long-term durability is a strong point for the core mechanical components, including the robust 5-cylinder engine block and the permanent all-wheel drive system. However, weaknesses emerge over time in peripheral systems. Electrical components, rubber hoses, plastic parts, and wiring harnesses degrade, leading to various operational issues. The complex K-Jetronic fuel injection system requires ongoing attention, and rust can become a significant structural problem if not addressed. Consistent, expert maintenance is paramount to their survival and long-term reliability.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1983 Audi Quattro, while a technological marvel for its time, naturally predates the sophisticated built-in tech, driver-assistance, and safety features we expect today. Its "tech" was primarily focused on performance and drivetrain innovation.
The most significant built-in technology was its permanent all-wheel drive system, a groundbreaking feature that allowed for exceptional traction and handling in various conditions, setting a new benchmark for performance cars. This system included manually lockable center and rear differentials, giving the driver precise control over power distribution. The turbocharged 2.1-liter five-cylinder engine was also a piece of advanced engineering, delivering strong power output for the era. The fuel system relied on the Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection, which was sophisticated for the early 1980s. The dashboard for the 1983 model featured a comprehensive array of analog gauges, including a turbo boost gauge, providing the driver with critical information.
For entertainment, the Quattro came equipped with a standard AM/FM stereo cassette player, typically with a basic fader and tone controls, reflecting the prevalent audio technology of the time. Premium audio options were generally limited.
Driver-assistance features, in the modern sense, were non-existent. However, the car did feature power-assisted steering and four-wheel power-assisted disc brakes, which were performance-oriented features contributing to driver control.
Safety features were rudimentary by contemporary standards. It included standard three-point seatbelts for front occupants and lap belts for rear passengers. The car's inherent stability and grip provided by its AWD system offered a significant passive safety advantage in adverse weather conditions. The robust construction was typical of German engineering of the period.
Optional features were generally limited due to the car's specialized nature, but could include air conditioning, specific leather color choices, and in some markets, a sunroof.
Crash-test ratings are not available for the 1983 Audi Quattro. Modern standardized crash testing by organizations like the NHTSA or IIHS did not exist for low-volume, specialized imports of this vintage, making direct comparisons to current safety standards impossible.
The most significant built-in technology was its permanent all-wheel drive system, a groundbreaking feature that allowed for exceptional traction and handling in various conditions, setting a new benchmark for performance cars. This system included manually lockable center and rear differentials, giving the driver precise control over power distribution. The turbocharged 2.1-liter five-cylinder engine was also a piece of advanced engineering, delivering strong power output for the era. The fuel system relied on the Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection, which was sophisticated for the early 1980s. The dashboard for the 1983 model featured a comprehensive array of analog gauges, including a turbo boost gauge, providing the driver with critical information.
For entertainment, the Quattro came equipped with a standard AM/FM stereo cassette player, typically with a basic fader and tone controls, reflecting the prevalent audio technology of the time. Premium audio options were generally limited.
Driver-assistance features, in the modern sense, were non-existent. However, the car did feature power-assisted steering and four-wheel power-assisted disc brakes, which were performance-oriented features contributing to driver control.
Safety features were rudimentary by contemporary standards. It included standard three-point seatbelts for front occupants and lap belts for rear passengers. The car's inherent stability and grip provided by its AWD system offered a significant passive safety advantage in adverse weather conditions. The robust construction was typical of German engineering of the period.
Optional features were generally limited due to the car's specialized nature, but could include air conditioning, specific leather color choices, and in some markets, a sunroof.
Crash-test ratings are not available for the 1983 Audi Quattro. Modern standardized crash testing by organizations like the NHTSA or IIHS did not exist for low-volume, specialized imports of this vintage, making direct comparisons to current safety standards impossible.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1983 Audi Quattro Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1983 Audi Quattro carried a significant price tag, retailing for approximately $35,000 in the U.S. market. This positioned it as a premium, high-performance European coupe.
Unlike typical vehicles, the Quattro has experienced a unique depreciation curve. After its initial depreciation common to most new cars, it began a strong period of appreciation as a sought-after classic. Current used market prices vary wildly based on condition. Project cars needing extensive work might be found for $15,000-$30,000. Well-preserved, good-condition driver examples typically command $40,000-$60,000. Exceptional, low-mileage, or concours-level examples can easily fetch $70,000 to over $100,000, with rare variants like the Sport Quattro reaching seven figures.
Factors significantly affecting resale value include the car's overall condition (especially rust absence and originality), comprehensive service history, mileage, and provenance. Its iconic rally heritage and limited production numbers also drive collector interest and value.
Unlike typical vehicles, the Quattro has experienced a unique depreciation curve. After its initial depreciation common to most new cars, it began a strong period of appreciation as a sought-after classic. Current used market prices vary wildly based on condition. Project cars needing extensive work might be found for $15,000-$30,000. Well-preserved, good-condition driver examples typically command $40,000-$60,000. Exceptional, low-mileage, or concours-level examples can easily fetch $70,000 to over $100,000, with rare variants like the Sport Quattro reaching seven figures.
Factors significantly affecting resale value include the car's overall condition (especially rust absence and originality), comprehensive service history, mileage, and provenance. Its iconic rally heritage and limited production numbers also drive collector interest and value.
1983 Audi Quattro Cost of Ownership
Long-term ownership of a 1983 Audi Quattro is unequivocally costly. Insurance can be relatively affordable if you opt for specialized classic car policies (e.g., Hagerty), provided the vehicle is stored securely and driven sparingly. However, daily driver insurance would be significantly higher.
Fuel costs are substantial due to its requirement for premium gasoline and its relatively poor fuel economy, typically ranging from 15-20 MPG. Maintenance is expensive; the car requires specialized knowledge, and many parts are rare, no longer available new (NLA), or costly reproductions. Regular service items, let alone significant repairs involving the K-Jetronic system, turbo, or drivetrain, can quickly add up. Repair costs are particularly high due to the rarity and expense of specific Quattro components and the need for expert labor. This is a passion purchase, not an economical one.
Fuel costs are substantial due to its requirement for premium gasoline and its relatively poor fuel economy, typically ranging from 15-20 MPG. Maintenance is expensive; the car requires specialized knowledge, and many parts are rare, no longer available new (NLA), or costly reproductions. Regular service items, let alone significant repairs involving the K-Jetronic system, turbo, or drivetrain, can quickly add up. Repair costs are particularly high due to the rarity and expense of specific Quattro components and the need for expert labor. This is a passion purchase, not an economical one.
1983 Audi Quattro Fuel Efficiency
No records to be displayed
1983 Audi Quattro Insurance
Insurance for a 1983 Audi Quattro is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1983 Audi Quattro Compare to Other Vehicle?
Stacking the 1983 Audi Quattro against its key rivals reveals its unique position as a pioneer of performance all-wheel drive. While not directly competing with many due to its distinct drivetrain, contemporary rivals from Europe offered different strengths.
Performance: Against rivals like the Porsche 944 Turbo (which arrived a few years later but within the same performance segment), the Quattro offered unparalleled all-weather grip and stability, particularly beneficial in adverse conditions. The 944 Turbo, with its transaxle layout, offered a more balanced chassis and often quicker dry-weather acceleration. The BMW M3 (E30, also slightly later) focused on raw, naturally aspirated, rear-wheel-drive driving dynamics and agility. The Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 Cosworth offered a refined, high-revving engine and excellent handling, also with RWD. The Quattro's turbocharged five-cylinder provided a distinct power delivery and sound that its rivals couldn't match.
Features: The Quattro's standout feature was its permanent all-wheel-drive system with manually locking differentials, a groundbreaking technology no direct competitor offered in the same performance segment at the time. Its rivals typically adhered to rear-wheel-drive performance principles, offering advanced suspension setups, sophisticated engines, and sometimes more luxurious interiors. While the Quattro offered leather and premium amenities, its focus was unequivocally on performance innovation.
Reliability: All high-performance European cars of this era, including the Quattro and its rivals, present challenges with long-term reliability due to age, complexity, and parts availability. The Quattro's specialized AWD components and K-Jetronic fuel injection can be particularly demanding. While a Porsche 944 might have better parts support due to higher production numbers, they also suffer from aging electrical and mechanical issues. Overall, diligent maintenance is crucial for any of these classics.
Price: When new, the Quattro was priced competitively with the upper echelons of German performance cars. Today, its unique status as a rally icon has propelled its value, often making it more expensive than comparable 944 Turbos or E30 M3s, especially for well-preserved examples.
Recommended Alternatives:
If all-weather performance and rally heritage are paramount, a Lancia Delta Integrale (though a later model and even rarer) offers a similar spirit. If pure driving dynamics and a more readily available parts network are desired, a Porsche 944 Turbo or a BMW E30 M3 would be excellent rear-wheel-drive alternatives, offering different but equally engaging driving experiences.
Performance: Against rivals like the Porsche 944 Turbo (which arrived a few years later but within the same performance segment), the Quattro offered unparalleled all-weather grip and stability, particularly beneficial in adverse conditions. The 944 Turbo, with its transaxle layout, offered a more balanced chassis and often quicker dry-weather acceleration. The BMW M3 (E30, also slightly later) focused on raw, naturally aspirated, rear-wheel-drive driving dynamics and agility. The Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 Cosworth offered a refined, high-revving engine and excellent handling, also with RWD. The Quattro's turbocharged five-cylinder provided a distinct power delivery and sound that its rivals couldn't match.
Features: The Quattro's standout feature was its permanent all-wheel-drive system with manually locking differentials, a groundbreaking technology no direct competitor offered in the same performance segment at the time. Its rivals typically adhered to rear-wheel-drive performance principles, offering advanced suspension setups, sophisticated engines, and sometimes more luxurious interiors. While the Quattro offered leather and premium amenities, its focus was unequivocally on performance innovation.
Reliability: All high-performance European cars of this era, including the Quattro and its rivals, present challenges with long-term reliability due to age, complexity, and parts availability. The Quattro's specialized AWD components and K-Jetronic fuel injection can be particularly demanding. While a Porsche 944 might have better parts support due to higher production numbers, they also suffer from aging electrical and mechanical issues. Overall, diligent maintenance is crucial for any of these classics.
Price: When new, the Quattro was priced competitively with the upper echelons of German performance cars. Today, its unique status as a rally icon has propelled its value, often making it more expensive than comparable 944 Turbos or E30 M3s, especially for well-preserved examples.
Recommended Alternatives:
If all-weather performance and rally heritage are paramount, a Lancia Delta Integrale (though a later model and even rarer) offers a similar spirit. If pure driving dynamics and a more readily available parts network are desired, a Porsche 944 Turbo or a BMW E30 M3 would be excellent rear-wheel-drive alternatives, offering different but equally engaging driving experiences.
Final Verdict: Is the 1983 Audi Quattro a Good Vehicle?
The 1983 Audi Quattro is ideal for serious automotive enthusiasts, dedicated Audi collectors, and rally sport aficionados who appreciate its groundbreaking technology and iconic heritage. It suits those seeking a mechanically engaging driving experience and a historically significant vehicle rather than modern comfort or convenience.
Is it worth buying? Absolutely, but with significant conditions. It is not an economical choice and should not be considered as a daily driver or primary vehicle. This car demands a buyer prepared for substantial long-term ownership costs, including expensive and challenging parts sourcing, and the need for specialized maintenance. It is an investment in automotive history and a passion project.
Therefore, it's worth buying only if you can find a meticulously documented, well-maintained example with a clear history. Focus on the car's overall condition, particularly rust absence and mechanical health, as the '83 U.S. model was largely offered in a single high-performance trim. This is a car to cherish and preserve, not to run on a tight budget.
Is it worth buying? Absolutely, but with significant conditions. It is not an economical choice and should not be considered as a daily driver or primary vehicle. This car demands a buyer prepared for substantial long-term ownership costs, including expensive and challenging parts sourcing, and the need for specialized maintenance. It is an investment in automotive history and a passion project.
Therefore, it's worth buying only if you can find a meticulously documented, well-maintained example with a clear history. Focus on the car's overall condition, particularly rust absence and mechanical health, as the '83 U.S. model was largely offered in a single high-performance trim. This is a car to cherish and preserve, not to run on a tight budget.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.