Audi V8 (1988 – 1993) Review

Back in the ’80s, Audi was still considered a ‘Wannabe’ prestige manufacturer, and its V8 was the company’s first step in a bold plan to join the gentleman’s club populated by BMW and Mercedes-Benz – as well as Jaguar. The 3.6-litre V8 engine was tuneful and the quattro drivetrain fun, but overall, buyers weren’t convinced, finding it not quie lofty enough.

Although clearly based on the 100/200, it was powered by an all new 3.6-litre V8 and underpinned by a capable quattro drivetrain. Typically, it was also crammed with all the technology that Audi could stuff in it – much of which caused problems for hapless owners down the line. Although it was an admirable first go at a top-line motor, the V8 wasn’t a success, and that makes it a rarity, but one worth seeking out, if you like your barges lesser-spotted.  A brave effort, rare now, and thanks to surprising unreliability, justifiably so.