Marque: Audi/NSU - Company History & Models - Cars By Brand
Audi/NSU
August Horch worked as an engineer with Benz in the 1890s, leaving in 1899 to start his own firm; the first Horch car (with a two cylinder engine) was produced in 1900. A multitude of vehicles and engine types followed, including a six-cylinder, eight-litre motor. After differences of opinion between Horch and his partners, he departed in 1909 and started another new car manufacturing concern. Prevented…
Audi/NSU 100S Coupe
PRICE: £500-£5000
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1971-76 - Bodywork:
Two-door fixed head coupé - Engine:
Overhead valve in-line four-cylinder 1871cc 112bhp - 0-60 mph:
10.5+ sec - Top Speed:
110+ mph - MPG:
20-28 mpg
PAST: With Aston DBS-like looks, ample accommodation and sprightly pace, the 100 S Coupé was introduced here in ‘71 by which time a single choke Solex carb was used and output fell slightly. Styling mods applied to the front end from the summer of 1973 but the end of the production road sadly came in 1976.
PRESENT: A sort of cultured Capri, the 100S as well respected in its day even at the lofty prices asked. Car’s real forte was its high gearing which meant it was a good crusier even with fourspeeds. Never that quick enough but tidy fwd handling made the most of it.
FUTURE: Never sold in huge numbers in the UK, these characterful coupés are rare and desirable, although asking prices are usually reasonable. Repair costs (due to rust) can be considerable and spares becoming scarce. Unlikely to achieve classic status but a fine car.
Audi/NSU 80 (1972-1979)
PRICE: £100- £1800
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1972-79 - Bodywork:
Two-door saloon; four-door saloon five-door estate - Engine:
Overhead camshaft in-line four cylinder 1296cc 60bhp; 1470cc 75 or 85bhp; 1588cc 75 85 110bhp - 0-60 mph:
1470cc (75bhp) 13+ sec; 1588cc (85bhp) 12+ sec; 1588cc GT (110bhp) 9.5 sec - Top Speed:
1470cc (75bhp) 95+ mph; 1588cc (85bhp) 100 mph; 1588cc GT (110bhp) 110+ mph - MPG:
Petrol 25-35 mpg
PAST: 80 was the 3 Series of its day based upon the similar VW Passat, which arrived in Britain in the autumn of 1972. August 1974 saw the introduction of a 1.6 litre GT model that was much underrated in its day. Estates made their debut in June 1975 and 1.5s were replaced by 1.6 units later. For ‘76 Golf GTi-engined GTE models replaced the previous GT versions. Luxurious GLS variants for 1977.
PRESENT: These were smart cars in their time; now scarce (corrosion has despatched most to scrapyards during the last quarter century), liked for their zest and quality build. GTs and GTEs hold most appeal as they are a classier take on the Golf GTi concept.
FUTURE: Car Of The Year for 1973, but apart from the excellent GT versions there’s little chance of this mouldbreaking Audi achieving classic status.
