Get ready to witness a piece of motorsport history as the 2000 Abt-Audi TT-R DTM heads to auction with an estimated price range of €400,000 to €600,000 EUR. This iconic race car, one of only four TT-R chassis entered by the Abt Sportsline team during the 2000 Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) season, boasts a rich pedigree and significant accomplishments on the track.
A Champion’s Heritage
Driven by Laurent Aïello, a former BTCC champion and 24 Hours of Le Mans winner, this TT-R DTM has an impressive race history. Throughout the 2000 season, Aïello secured points-scoring finishes at both Oschersleben and in the October races at the Nürburgring, finishing the season as the leading Audi driver in the championship standings. This car represents the essence of competitive spirit and performance, having been part of a relaunch for the DTM after a three-year hiatus.
Technical Excellence
The Abt-Audi TT-R DTM is engineered for high performance, featuring a 4.0-litre V-8 engine that delivers an impressive 460 PS. The car is built on a lightweight tubular frame equipped with an integrated roll cage, enhancing safety and rigidity on the track. A six-speed sequential gearbox by Xtrac ensures quick and responsive shifts, essential for competitive racing.
The car’s development was not without challenges, as the Abt Sportsline team faced difficulties in the first half of the season. However, Aïello’s skillful driving shone through, leading to impressive results, including a 5th place finish at Oschersleben after qualifying 18th, and consistent top finishes at the Nürburgring.
A New Life Awaits
After its initial racing career, chassis TT-R 00.01 changed hands several times, eventually undergoing a comprehensive rebuild in 2020. This rebuild included overhauling the engine and gearbox, allowing the car to run efficiently and reliably. The current owner has since put the car through approximately 480 kilometers of testing, ensuring it is ready for its next chapter.
Today, the 2000 Abt-Audi TT-R DTM is not just a racing car; it is a piece of history that showcases the evolution of DTM racing. Its performance lineage is particularly noteworthy, as it laid the groundwork for Aïello’s subsequent DTM title in 2002.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Opportunity
As a meticulously restored and historically significant race car, the 2000 Abt-Audi TT-R DTM stands as a testament to the prowess of the Abt Sportsline team and the capabilities of Audi in motorsport. Whether you’re a collector, a racing enthusiast, or simply looking to own a piece of racing history, this car is poised to make a lasting impression.
Don’t miss your chance to own a part of DTM history. Keep an eye out for this remarkable vehicle at the upcoming auction and prepare to experience the thrill of the track.
Source: rmsothebys.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
