Audi V8 quattro: A Controversial DTM Icon

: News; September 18 2024; Hits: 40

Audi V8 quattro: A Controversial DTM Icon

The DTM series, which began in 1984 as the Deutsche Produktionswagen Meisterschaft (German Production Car Championship), was renamed in 1986 to the name we know today – Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (German Touring Car Championship). It quickly became the most prestigious touring car championship in continental Europe. The strict Group A rules and the performance-based weight handicap system ensured a balanced competition, making the series famous for its spectacular and competitive races.

It wasn’t until the 1988 season that the "double header" format was introduced, with two races per weekend, which attracted manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Ford. After the collapse of the European Touring Car Championship at the end of that year, notable teams such as Eggenberger and Schnitzer joined DTM in the 1989 season, along with top drivers including former Formula 1 racers.

After Ford’s exit, the 1990 season looked set to be a showdown between BMW and Mercedes-Benz, with each brand fielding four factory-backed teams. However, the most attention was drawn by the sole factory team of the Audi V8 quattro, led by Schmidt Motorsport. 1990 marked Audi’s official debut in the DTM series, with its driver, Hans-Joachim Stuck, achieving podium after podium thanks to the excellent four-wheel-drive system. Stuck won seven out of 22 races in the 1990 season, securing the title.

In 1991, Schmidt Motorsport expanded to two cars, with 22-year-old karting talent Hubert Haupt joining Hans-Joachim Stuck. Audi further strengthened its presence with a second factory team, Audi Zentrum Reutlingen, which fielded cars driven by well-known drivers Frank Biela and Frank Jelinski. The upgraded Audi V8 quattro in its "Evolution" version featured a 3.5-liter engine with nearly 500 horsepower and improved aerodynamics thanks to a new front splitter and adjustable rear wing. BMW began the season with wins in the first four races, but F. Biela, with consistent performance and three victories in the final four rounds, claimed the title over Ludwig (Mercedes-Benz) and Stuck. This was the first time a manufacturer won back-to-back DTM titles. Audi confirmed its dominance when Frank Biela won two of the season’s last four races, securing the ITR Driver’s Cup as well.

This car, originally operated by Schmidt Motorsport, debuted in the first round of the 1991 championship in Zolder. Hans-Joachim Stuck finished an impressive 2nd place in the second race, right behind Cecotto in a BMW. After a series of three retirements in four races, Haupt took the wheel at Avus, finishing 4th and 3rd during a legendary weekend when Audi claimed all podium spots. Later, the car returned to Stuck, who won three races with it at Norisring, Diepholz, and Singen, securing 3rd place in the championship.

Audi’s success in the 1991 season was remarkable, but 1992 was filled with controversy. BMW and Mercedes-Benz heavily lobbied for an increase in the minimum weight of the Audi quattro to 1,300 kg, and there were frequent protests against the legality of the V8’s crankshaft. Aside from a 1st and 2nd place for Biela and Stuck at Nürburgring, results were lackluster. Stuck’s 6th place at Avus was the last notable result for chassis number LN000049 before Audi withdrew from the championship midway through the season.

In 2014, former driver Hubert Haupt purchased the LN000049 chassis and had it fully restored to its 1991 specifications. The restoration included repairs to the transmission, suspension, wiring, hydraulics, and an upgrade to a 4.2-liter V8 engine with improved torque. The vehicle was meticulously finished in the original Audi Sport colors. The Audi comes with a complete set of spare parts, including the original engine, wheels, and brake system. The V8 quattro also has an FIA Historic Technical Passport, allowing it to participate in historic and Youngtimer races. The price of this beautiful quattro special is estimated between €750,000 and €1 million. It sought a new owner at an auction in Monaco earlier this year but has yet to find one.
Photo: RM Sotheby's