The brand Audi is undoubtedly associated with the word "Quattro" today. This unbreakable combination began in 1977 when chassis engineer Jorg Bensinger began working on the development of all-wheel drive. Three years later, in 1980, the result of this project was introduced to the market. Audi Quattro made its public debut on March 3rd at the Geneva Motor Show.
Quattro borrowed the platform from the Audi 80, and its powertrain came from the luxurious Audi 200. The all-wheel drive system utilized a manually lockable differential between the front and rear axles, with its control located beside the handbrake. Under the elongated front hood lay a turbocharged 5-cylinder 2.1-liter petrol engine paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. It delivered 200 horsepower and a torque of 285 Nm.
However, this specific model comes from the year 1990 when Audi had already improved the all-wheel drive system with a more modern Torsen differential and made adjustments under the hood. The engine was enlarged to 2.2 liters and received another camshaft with corresponding second-row valves, giving rise to the "20V" descriptor. Thanks to these modifications, the power output was raised to 220 horsepower, and Audi was capable of reaching a top speed of 230 km/h.
The Quattro with the license plate H945 TNV, finished in Pearl White and featuring a gray semi-leather interior, was first registered on August 1st, 1990. It is considered one of the first, if not the very first, models with a 20-valve head registered in Great Britain. Over the years, Audi had a total of five owners. The current owner is a private collector who has meticulously cared for this beautiful Quattro. The definitive title of being the first Quattro registered in the UK hasn't been officially granted, but this particular example holds a certain celebrity status. This vehicle appeared on television screens as well as in the pages of the Performance Car magazine's January 1991 edition, where it was tested by Jeremy Clarkson.
Recently, the car underwent a complete inspection by Pete Berry of White Cottage Quattros in Horsham, who confirmed its excellent condition. The new owner will receive the original accessories, including owner's manuals and two stamped service booklets, including the mentioned issue of Performance Car magazine. The White Audi Quattro 20V has a clear lineage and outstanding condition; wherever it appears, it becomes the center of conversations. Dealers estimate that the vehicle's price could reach up to €76,000. Not surprisingly, given its status as a small automotive celebrity.
Text: Mateo
Photo: Iconic Auctioneers (Silverstone Auctions)
