Audi 80 showed class already in 1973

Audi 80 Revolutionized European Driving

The Lightweight Champion That Conquered the Oil Crisis

In 1973, the Audi 80 emerged, a revolutionary vehicle celebrated for its remarkably light construction and fuel efficiency. This car became a cornerstone for Audi, its economical nature proving particularly valuable during the era’s oil crisis.

A Decisive European Victory

The Audi 80 clinched the coveted “Car of the Year” award in Europe, narrowly surpassing the innovative Renault 5. This prestigious accolade underscored the Audi 80’s significant impact on the automotive landscape. Between 1972 and 1978, over 1.1 million units rolled off the production lines, a testament to its widespread appeal and commercial success.

Pioneering Lightweight Design and Performance

The Audi 80’s design philosophy centered on a startlingly low weight relative to its size. This engineering feat enhanced the performance of its modest 1.3, 1.5, and 1.6-liter engines. The later GTE variant, featuring 1.6-liter fuel injection and 110 horsepower, offered an exhilarating driving experience.

  Stylish: This was stuff - center console in Audi 80 GL. Photo: Brochure

Premium Feel for the Masses

The Audi 80 successfully delivered a premium driving experience, previously associated with larger models like the Audi 100 and other high-end European brands. Its triumph over the newly launched Renault 5, by a mere five points, and its close competition with the Alfa Romeo Alfetta, highlighted its strong market positioning.

A Trendsetter for a Growing Brand

The Audi 80’s success was instrumental in shaping the trajectory of the burgeoning Audi brand. **Hans Hilmer Gravdal**, NAF’s technical manager and a Norwegian juror for the “Car of the Year” award, likely appreciated the Audi 80’s thoughtful engineering.

  ELEGANT: Audi 80 was an elegant middle class registration when it came, here in the 2nd door version. Photo: Audi

Versatile and Modern Engineering

Sharing its platform with the new Volkswagen Passat, the Audi 80 offered a range of body styles, including 2-door and 4-door sedans, and a 5-door avant station wagon. Various trim levels, such as the S, L, LS, GL, GT, and the later GTE, catered to diverse customer preferences. Its modern transverse engine and front-wheel-drive layout maximized interior space.

Compact Dimensions, Impressive Agility

Measuring 4.18 meters long, 1.60 meters wide, and 1.36 meters high, with a 2.47-meter wheelbase, the Audi 80 fit comfortably into the mid-size car segment. The 1.3-liter base model weighed a mere 835 kilograms, enabling brisk acceleration despite its 54 horsepower.

Performance Prowess

The 1.5-liter engine, producing 75 horsepower, reduced the 0-100 km/h sprint time to 10.8 seconds. The top-tier 1.6-liter GT, with 100 horsepower, achieved this benchmark in an impressive 10.2 seconds, a remarkable feat for a family car in 1973.

  Crank: Electric window lifts were just a beautiful dream for most in the early 1970s. It also applied to Audi 80. Photo: Brochure

In 2023, Audi celebrated its 50th anniversary of the 80 model, a car that significantly contributed to its global recognition. The average annual production of nearly 158,000 units between 1972 and 1978 underscores the Audi 80’s enduring success and its pivotal role in Audi’s history.