Audi Cabriolet

The manufacturer from Ingolstadt called this model simply - the Convertible, although many call it the 80 Cabrio. However, structurally, the Audi Cabriolet is closest to the Coupé version, and the lack of the “80” mark in the name is not accidental. The convertible was positioned in the Audi model range as a luxury. The chrome frame of the windshield is a distinctive feature of Audi convertibles. The A5 Cabriolet and R8 Spyder are available.

Gene tested

And yet, the relationship with the popular and very hardy model “80” had a positive effect. The suspension is simple, and the parts are inexpensive and easily accessible.

The extremely durable suspension was sensationally comfortable. But there's another side to the coin. Audi Convertible is pretty clumsy. It lacks the agility of its biggest competitor, the open-air version of the BMW 3 Series (E36). Whatever it was Cabriolet designed for quiet driving, as evidenced by the lack of modification with excellent all-wheel drive 4x4 Quattro, which was offered in the models “80” and Coupe.

But BMW can envy the first-class sheet metal Audi. The convertible still bravely resists corrosion.

What's the noise?

This car is not for sports driving, so many drivers will suit a simple and reliable 8-valve gasoline atmospheric capacity of 2.0 liters.

It is worth paying attention and 16-valve 2.0 with 140 hp. It turned out successful and 20-valve 1.8 (125 hp), known for the Audi A4 B5.

As for the interesting sounding 5-cylinder 2.3, the opinions are different. Its KE-Jetronic mechanical injection is difficult to operate and the engine is uneconomical. Gluttons and V6 – 2.6/150 hp and 2.8/174 hp. But at least they don’t create problems. However, the V-shaped six very densely fills the engine compartment, which reduces the efficiency of the radiator fan.

The 90-hp 1.9 TDI is the only diesel engine used in a convertible and is extremely reliable. This is, of course, an undeniable advantage. Only one question is whether the “trakhtelka” is combined with the elegant timeless design of the convertible.

Characteristic malfunctions

Thanks to the folding top, the Audi Cabriolet can be used even in rainy weather. However, with age, the hydraulic mechanism of lifting the roof is given. Fortunately, it can be folded by hand. However, not all versions are equipped with autonomous drive. What is important, the folded roof does not take up space in the trunk.

The body of the Convertible is quite tough, but sometimes something creaks inside. After several years, the seals of frameless side windows lose their tightness. The rubber bands should be replaced so that water drops do not fall inside, and it was quieter.

A faulty fuel supply indicator can be reanimated after the soldering of electrical connections in the appliance.

The optional Recaro sports seats, equipped with anti-slip brackets, are so heavy that the floor had to be further reinforced. They have other mounts, so sports seats will not be installed on cars that originally did not have them.

Due to the lack of space in the legs, the back sofa can only be used in emergency cases.

Model history

1995 – introduction of diesel 1.9 TDI / 90 hp

1997 – second facelift, an internal resemblance to the Audi A4 B5

Typical problems

Parking brakes usually work very poorly.

Oil consumption – gasoline engines often consume a lot of oil.

Mechanical injection – can cause problems in 2.3 (KE-Jetronic) engines and is difficult to maintain.

The roof cover is often deformed, and it is not easy to find the same in a satisfactory condition.

Gene tested

• The convertible still bravely resists corrosion.

What's the noise?

• But at least they don’t create problems.

Characteristic malfunctions

• What is important, the folded roof does not take up space in the trunk.

Typical problems

• Mechanical injection – can cause problems in engines 2.

A good copy will not be easy to find. The Audi Cabriolet is definitely closer in style to the Saab 900 NG. The German convertible will allow you to relax in warm weather. Unlike many of its competitors, it is not afraid of year-round operation. It is a concrete candidate for classics, so prices will soon only rise.

• Genes tested: The convertible still bravely resists corrosion.
• Where is the noise coming from?: But at least they don't create problems.
• Characteristic faults: With the folding top, the Audi Cabriolet can be used even in rainy weather.
• Model history: 1995 – introduction of diesel 1.9 TDI / 90 hp
• Typical problems: Mechanical injection can create problems in engines 2.

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