Audi 200 classic car for sale

History of the Audi 200

Audi launched the 200 as an upmarket sibling to the Audi 100 in 1979, aiming to demonstrate engineering ambition and capture buyers in the executive segment. The first series (C2/Typ 43) was marked by a more powerful five-cylinder petrol engine, subtle but significant design updates and an interior that pushed Audi’s standards upwards. Turbocharged variants like the 200 5T made early headlines with advanced K-Jetronic injection.

The C3/Typ 44 generation arrived in 1983, joining the streamlined, aerodynamic design wave. Audi now offered Avant estate and the option of Quattro all-wheel-drive—key for performance and rally aspirations. Features like climate control, power seats, advanced audio, and full leather distinguished the 200 from most period rivals. Production ended in 1991 after just two highly focused generations, making the 200 a concise but important chapter in Audi’s ascent.

Model History

The Audi 200’s story begins with the C2/Typ 43 (1979–1982), sharing much with the Audi 100 but adding 2.1-litre and turbocharged five-cylinder engines to create a much sharper package. Early versions offered either five-speed manuals or three-speed automatics, the 5T standing out with 170 PS. An attempted Wankel rotary never saw series production.

The C3/Typ 44 (1983–1991) brought a more modern body and, from 1984, the famous Avant estate and Quattro drivetrains. Power outputs rose, culminating in turbocharged 20V Quattro models developing up to 220 PS. The most lavish specification, the 200 Exklusiv, featured climate control and power leather seats at a launch price close to a period Porsche 911. Notably, the 200 Quattro was Audi’s entry in international rally competitions.

While overseas production continued with local variants in China and Japan, the range closed in 1991, succeeded by the next-generation Audi 100 (C4).

Highlights of the Audi 200

The Audi 200 was distinguished by its advanced five-cylinder engines, luxury equipment, and the availability of the Quattro all-wheel-drive system. The executive trim included velour or leather/Alcantara interiors, climate control, Bose sound systems, original BBS alloy wheels, and subtle but clear design refinements over the 100. In the late 1980s, the 200 Quattro 20V was among the fastest executive cars, setting speed records and racing successfully, including in the IMSA series, where the Quattro system famously dominated.

Technical data of the Audi 200

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The most coveted variant is the Audi 200 Quattro 20V, featuring a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive—developed with input from Audi’s motorsport engineers including Ferdinand Piëch and Ulrich Baretzky. The extremely rare Audi 200 Avant (Typ 44), produced from 1987 to 1991 with just 1,616 units (of which only 647 in 1989), is highly regarded by collectors. Further, specialist tuning (e.g. ABT) and limited conversions, some hand-crafted, have added unique value in today’s classic market. The 200 Exklusiv edition, equipped with electric-leather seating and automatic climate control, represented the luxury pinnacle in period.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

The Audi 200’s five-cylinder engines are robust, but regular timing belt (toothed-belt) changes are critical to prevent severe damage. Originality is often prized—complete toolkits, handbooks, service records, and careful previous ownership (e.g., garaged, non-smoker, original paint) boost long-term reliability and appeal. Electronic and hydraulic components (central locking, power seats, climate control) can age, so buyers should scrutinise functionality and servicing history. Turbo models benefit from regular oil changes and careful warm-up/cool-down routines to prolong turbocharger health. As with any high-specification 1980s/90s executive, pre-purchase inspection is recommended.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

Audi 200s balance respectable power and comfort: early 170 PS turbo versions and later 220 PS 20V Quattros provide rapid acceleration that set benchmarks in their class. Quattro four-wheel-drive systems deliver outstanding traction, especially in poor weather, while sport-tuned suspension on top specifications ensures road-holding that belies the car’s size. Gearbox options included both crisp manual and smooth automatic variants. Motorsport heritage (notably at the Nardo record and Trans-Am) is reflected in the driving feel, especially in tuned and limited editions. - Audi 200 5T: 170 PS turbocharged, performance flagship of its launch period.

• Audi 200 Quattro 20V: Up to 220 PS, four-wheel drive—motorsport-engineered, particularly collectable.
• Audi 200 Avant: Rare, practical estate format with executive credentials.
• Tuned variants (e.g. ABT): Power outputs from 165 to 280 PS.
• Exklusiv edition: High luxury features, including automatic climate control and electric leather seats.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Audi 200 is noted for understated but period-advanced exterior styling—distinguished by unique grille, chromed trim, bespoke alloy wheels (notably BBS 16"), and in later models, aerodynamic details. High-grade interiors made extensive use of velour, leather or Alcantara, with optional features like heated seats, cruise control, and factory Bose audio. Avant models offered practical load space with no compromise to executive comfort, including details such as ski-bags, sunroofs, green-tinted glass, and detailed wood inlays. Accessories and special options, including headlamp washing systems and original toolkit, underline the brand’s focus on thoughtful engineering.

Other relevant features

Prominent appearances include the James Bond film 'The Living Daylights' (1987) and the German TV series 'Schwarzwaldklinik'—period testimonials to the Audi 200’s status. Proper examples often come with comprehensive original documentation, matching numbers, and detailed service history including TÜV records, which are sought after by collectors. Development input from motorsport legends and engineers is a notable feature, as is the documented rally success with drivers like Hannu Mikkola and Walter Röhrl.

Summary

The Audi 200 occupies a key role in Audi’s rise to the executive segment, combining cutting-edge engineering with everyday comfort and understated design. Its powerful five-cylinder engines, advanced equipment, and rally-proven Quattro system distinguish it even today. High originality, careful maintenance, and rare variants such as the Quattro 20V and Avant mark the 200 out for discerning classic buyers searching for an individual piece of Audi’s performance-luxury past.