1997 Audi Cabriolet Reviews, Pricing & Specs

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CarGurus Editorial Team
Written by CarGurus Editorial Team

Published August 9, 2022

Overview

Take the lid off of this car. With its top down, the 1997 Audi Cabriolet attracts a lot of envious attention, as it exudes subtle style...

Take the lid off of this car. With its top down, the 1997 Audi Cabriolet attracts a lot of envious attention, as it exudes subtle style and sophistication.

The Audi Cabriolet comes with a hefty pricetag, so in 1997, it cut back on some of its features. The convertible top is now manual and leather seats are no longer standard. Audi did this to reduce the price of the 1997 Cabriolet, choosing instead to offer the power top and leather trim in a Premium Package that adds in sport-style seating. The rear seat windscreen, that reduces wind interference, is also still optional. Heated seats and locks come in a Cold Weather Package.

Not that you'll be driving this in the winter. This convertible is designed for fun and a high-class driving experience. A 2.8-liter, 172-hp engine and 4-speed automatic transmission cause slow initial acceleration in this heavy car, but once you get up to highway speeds, the Cabriolet is a pleasant cruiser, hitting speeds plenty powerful to de-curl your new perm. Owners wish for more horsepower, however, and a better powertrain to combat the slow off-the-line performance. A manual transmission and quattro all-wheel drive are also much desired. Maintenance costs are exorbitant.

On the plus side, the 1997 Cabriolet is smooth and quiet, with very little wind noise when the top is up. Seats are comfortable, complemeting the soft suspension and balanced handling. Despite being a convertible, the heavy weight of the car gives it a sturdy, safe feel. The one-touch power top is a must, and the overall style turns heads, according to most drivers.

What owners say

4.3
4 reviews
5
4
3
2
1

Car is a fun extra vehicle! It has great handling and with the top up it is pretty quiet for a rag top. It runs great and has reasonable power. The ride is excellent for a sports car. Power top operates smoothly.

June 12, 2009

Bought the car used with about 5,000 miles on it in 2000, have put 37,000 more in 10 years. Pretty much trouble free. Just do the regular maintenance and GARAGE it, it will last as long as you care to have it. I updated the speakers and with the built in subwoofer it gives sweet sound even at highway speeds with the top down. Also added an aluminum sport muffler for sweet sound and good all season tires. Put some leather cleaner on the seats to keep soft and supple. That's pretty much it. Love it in the summer, great for touring .

February 14, 2011

this is a third car, fair weather run around for us. Plam to keep it for a long time. No major problems since buying it two years ago. Previous owner replaced a bunch of items, rear window, fron end axels/boots etc.

September 9, 2007