1992 Audi 80 Trims and Specs

The 1992 Audi 80 STD sedan had a lot of standard features, even though it was the base model. A front-wheel drive, 4-door family car, it carried a 2.3-liter, 5-cylinder, 130-hp engine matched standard with a 5-speed manual transmission. A 4-speed automatic with overdrive was optional. Even in the base 80, you got air conditioning, power windows and locks, rear defrost, fog lights, tinted glass, and cruise control. Gas mileage was about 18/25 mpg. Extras included a power sunroof, heated seats (a perennial favorite), a ski bag, and a security system.

Generally, owners like their Audi 80 STD, though initial acceleration is a bit labored. Once it's cruising, the ride is smooth and easy, and cornering is precise. A cramped rear seat and lack of cupholders are common complaints. Bad customer service and expensive maintance remains the biggest downside.

Its name alone distinguishes itself from the base model Audi 80. The 1992 Audi 80 quattro features the innovative all-wheel drive system that distributes torque to the wheels as they need it. This makes the 80 quattro a tank in the snow and on ice. It shares the 2.3-liter, 130-hp I5 engine with the base model, but only comes with the 5-speed manual transmission. No quattros were paired with automatic transmission at the time. Similar features, such as power windows and locks, cruise control, rear defrost, and heated mirrors adorn both the base and quattro 80. The quattro adds a rear spoiler, 4-wheel ABS, and a sports suspension to go along with the rugged quattro.

Handling always gets rated highly in the 1992 Audi 80 quattro, as does the outstanding all-wheel drive performance, which tops most other all-wheel drive vehicles. Drivers rave about the optional heated front seats. Aside from expensive parts, other complaints include slow off-the-line capabilities and the need for cupholders.