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Audi 80 (1991 – 1995) Review

Audi 80 (1991 – 1995) At A Glance

3/5

+Bodywork unlikely to rust, some very good engines, such as strong 2.0-litre 16-valve, smooth 2.6-litre V6 and frugal TDI turbo diesel.

-Some problems with catalytic converters, TDI engines can wear out after 150,000 miles, rear brake discs can rust, still viewed as a 'modern' car

The Audi 80 B4-generation might have looked little different from its predecessor, the aerodynamic B3, but there were huge differences under the skin. The introduction of this car was an exercise is fault-fixing, putting right all of the old car's faults - so that meant improved suspension with an all-new set-up at the rear, more legroom inside, and a much improved boot opening, with a nice flat floor and folding rear seats.

The B4 saw the end of the 90 as a separate model line, and the five-pot was dropped from the range, apart from the S2 and RS2 models, which were an altogether different proposition altogether. Commercially most important was the addition of the classy five-door Avant estate and the introduction of VAG's fast-revving 1.9-litre TDI - which was vastly better than the old 1.6-litre TD. Not an exciting car, but hugely important in the development of the compact executive Audi.

Ask Honest John

How much is a 1991 Audi 80 Sport worth?

"I have a J reg Audi 80 Sport with 11,000 miles on the clock. Can you give me a valuation please?"
We'd expect a really, really good low mileage example to sell for about £2500, while a car that runs but needs TLC would be about £1250. That said, there are some exceptional examples in the classified carrying extremely high prices - there are some cars with higher mileages than yours in the classifieds carrying £5k+ price tags... but whether they'll sell for that remains to be seen. Have a look at those and price yours accordingly.
Answered by Keith Moody

The temp gauge on my 1994 Audi 80 works intermittently - what is causing this?

"My 1994 Audi 80 2.0E ABK engine has a temperature gauge that works intermittently. I've replaced the sender but this has made no difference. I'm sure the thermostat is okay as the heater output seems fine and the top hose gets hot. For the first time yesterday I also noticed that the fuel gauge was not registering although the tank was nearly full.This was okay after restarting the engine. Are these two things associated? Could you please help in directing me to the cause and remedy."
If you've replaced the temperature sender and the instrument is still not working (and the fuel gauge is playing up, too) then it's most likely to be dry solder joints on the circuit board on the back of the instrument cluster. To get at it, you'll need to take the steering wheel off.
Answered by Keith Moody

What is the best classic car for a young driver?

"Would a classic 1970/80s Audi 80 be a good first car for a 17 year old? If not, which classic car would you recommend? Including factors of price of car, insurance and availability of parts."
Can't say. Depends on the car and the state it's in. Best car for a 17 year old is probably still a Morris Minor 1000 1,098cc. Low rate classic insurance. Rust problems, of course. But massive parts availability and one of the very best car clubs.
Answered by Honest John
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