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 80 (1972-1979)
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.
Audi/NSU 80/90/100 (TO 1976)
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1970-76 - Bodywork:
Two or four-door saloon - Engine:
Overhead-valve in-line four-cylinder 1760cc 100bhp; 1871cc 112bhp - 0-60 mph:
1760cc 12+ sec; 1871cc 11+ sec - Top Speed:
1760cc 105 mph; 1871cc 105+ mph - MPG:
18-30+ mpg
PAST: Following the merger in 1969 of Audi and NSU, the revitalised Audi NSU Auto Union AG concern introduced new saloons designated 60, 90, and 100, arriving in Britain in the spring of 1969. GL versions, powered by a 1.9-litre (also featuring improved brakes and halogen headlights) followed in 1971. Three years later brought revised styling plus engine and suspension improvements while October 1975 saw the adoption of larger bumpers, a flagship SE version, with auto trans, steel sunroof, vinyl covered roof and tinted glass.
PRESENT: Highly competent BMW-like saloon at almost the first attempt that was well acclaimed for its era, liked for its refinement and spaciousness.
FUTURE: First of the ‘proper’ Audis, it’s a far better car than the almost extinct 60 /75 models.
