The Turbocharged Legend: A 20V-Powered 1985 Audi Quattro

The Turbocharged Legend: A 20V-Powered 1985 Audi Quattro

The 1985 Audi Quattro, a name synonymous with all-wheel-drive performance and rallying dominance, remains a coveted icon among automotive enthusiasts. This particular example, finished in Graphite Metallic and ordered without a sunroof, boasts a significant performance upgrade: a 2.2-liter 20V AAN inline-five engine, complete with a Garrett GT2860RS turbocharger. This turbocharged beast, further enhanced by a stainless-steel muffler and an 034Motorsport standalone engine management system, promises an exhilarating driving experience. Imported from Canada and now offered by the selling dealer with records, a service manual, spare parts, and a clean Oregon title, this modified Ur-Quattro is ready to unleash its full potential.

This 1985 Audi Quattro, originally finished in Graphite Metallic (LB7V), presents a classic yet subtly aggressive appearance. The hood, doors, and front fenders were replaced and the car was subsequently refinished around 2010. The absence of a sunroof, as per the original order, adds to the car’s unique character. European-specification H1/H4 headlights, tucked body-color bumpers, a raised rear spoiler, and dual exhaust outlets further enhance the car’s sporty aesthetics.

The 15×8″ Ronal wheels, a signature design for the Quattro, are fitted with 225/50 Toyo Proxes 4 tires. The car’s renowned four-wheel independent suspension, featuring MacPherson struts and a front sway bar, has been upgraded with Bilstein dampers and Eibach springs for improved handling. The front axles were rebuilt in 2020, and the steering rack was repaired in May 2024. It’s worth noting that some corrosion is visible on the rotors and other brake and suspension components.

The interior of this Quattro is a blend of classic design and performance-oriented upgrades. Black leather upholstery covers the front bucket seats, door panels, and contoured rear bench. An 034Motorsport short-shift kit and an Audi Sport-branded shift knob enhance the driver’s connection to the car. A Nardi steering wheel with an Audi Sport badge adds a touch of personalized style. The window switches were replaced in 2020. The selling dealer notes some failed stitching on the front seats and that the air conditioning, heated seats, and cruise control are not currently functional.

Instrumentation includes a 250-km/h speedometer, a tachometer, an analog clock, and gauges for boost pressure and fuel level. Readouts for coolant temperature and oil pressure have been relocated above the differential lock panel, and electronic readouts for voltage and oil temperature are displayed to the right of the differential lock knob. The six-digit odometer shows 116,000 kilometers (~72,000 miles), approximately 4,000 kilometers of which were added by the selling dealer.

The heart of this beast is the replacement turbocharged 2.2-liter AAN 20V inline-five engine, reportedly sourced from an S4 and rebuilt before installation by Rombotis Tuning of Montreal, Canada. The engine features a Garrett GT2860RS turbocharger, a billet aluminum blow-off valve, and an adjustable wastegate frequency control valve. The radiator has been angled to accommodate the custom-built intercooler. The engine management system is an older 034Motorsport standalone system that requires tuning with a Windows 98-equipped computer. As a result, the car is reluctant to start in cold weather, and the selling dealer recommends upgrading the standalone system. The starter was replaced in August 2024.

Power is sent to all four wheels through a five-speed manual transaxle and the Quattro all-wheel-drive system, featuring two locking differentials. The selling dealer notes the presence of corrosion on the car’s underside. The custom exhaust system was modified for better chassis clearance in May 2024, at which time a stripped subframe mounting bolt was repaired. The Carfax report is clean, showing no accidents or other damage. Odometer readings have been recorded in miles rather than kilometers.

This 1985 Audi Quattro, with its 20V turbo engine, performance upgrades, and iconic status, is a true driver’s car. It offers a unique blend of classic styling, exhilarating performance, and all-weather capability.

Summary/Specs List:

  • Model: 1985 Audi Quattro
  • Mileage: 116,000 kilometers (~72,000 miles)
  • Engine: 2.2-liter 20V AAN inline-five (turbocharged)
  • Transmission: 5-speed manual
  • Exterior Color: Graphite Metallic (LB7V)
  • Interior Color: Black leather
  • Features: 15×8″ Ronal wheels, Bilstein dampers, Eibach springs, European headlights, 034Motorsport engine management system, Garrett GT2860RS turbocharger

Disclaimer: This information is provided for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended as an endorsement or recommendation for any specific vehicle. For more information on this specific car, you can reach out to the seller.

Source: bringatrailer.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini

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