Considered the first modern Audi, the FWD 80 soon attracted a Car of the Year accolade upon its release in 1972. The GT version first appeared in the UK in 1974, characterised externally by its alloy wheels and deeper front spoiler. Powered by the familiar 1588cc engine, the GT version added a little extra fizz to the line-up.
The improved performance did much to raise the profile of the Audi in a market contested by sporting Escorts and Dolomites but more importantly, the Volkswagen-Audi Group were busy preparing the B1 platform for the fuel-injected GTE, which essentially became the test bed for the VW Golf GTI.
While not overtly potent in power, the GT was brisk to 60 mph. Only sold as a two-door, this example belongs to Audi UK’s Heritage fleet and is one of several 1970s Audis maintained by them.
