Audi Quattro 20V (1989-1991)

For the 1983 Model Year the quattro underwent some subtle cosmetic revisions, most notably including the adoption of new one-piece headlamps and plusher interior trim, but it would be late 1987 before any significant changes were made to its much-lauded engine and running gear.

1988 Model Year cars arrived with a larger 2.2-litre version of the original turbocharged five-cylinder engine featuring several enhancements designed to improve refinement and response. They also incorporated a new ‘torque-sensing’ or Torsen centre differential which apportioned torque more intelligently between the front and rear axles. In contrast to the original car with its fixed 50:50 torque split, the new Torsen-equipped model could channel as little as 25% or as much as 75% towards the front based on ‘real time’ status information from sensors monitoring its front and rear axles, helping to quell understeer and maximise control. Like the original car the new 20-valve model offered the option to lock the central and rear differentials, the later version providing this function via a more sophisticated console-mounted switch.

The best was arguably still yet to come, though, because in 1989 the quattro was enhanced yet again by a further revised version of the 2.2-litre engine now featuring a cross-flow cylinder head with four valves per cylinder. Slightly more powerful, and delivering its improved torque peak much earlier, its major advantage was its dramatically improved flexibility and response across the rev range.

Technical information

• Cylinders – five in-line
• Displacement – 2226cc
• Power – 220PS @ 5900rpm
• Torque – 309Nm @ 1950rpm
• Max speed 141mph
• 0-62mph in 6.3 secs
• Transmission – five-speed manual
• quattro all-wheel drive
• Weight – 1395kg

Total production: ~3,654 units (of ~11,452 total quattros)

The Audi Cherished Fleet includes 20-valve quattro models in Alpine White (1989) and Tornado Red (1991) which are among the last to have been produced – the Tornado Red car is one of only two known right-hand-drive examples with delivery mileage.