1981-1987 Audi Coupe/Coupe GT

The 1981-1987 Audi Coupe was derived from Audi's 1978-87 third-generation 80/90 junior sedan series, called "4000" in the United States. The Coupe combined the basic bodyshell of the concurrent all-wheel-drive Quattro coupe with a conventional 80/90 front-wheel drivetrain with five-cylinder inline engines.

This 1986 Audi Coupe GT was part of the 1981-87 Audi Coupe/Coupe GT series.
1986 Audi Coupe GT.  See more pictures of classic cars.

The Audi Coupe was surprisingly roomy and pleasant, though not exciting, to drive. Model-year 1985 in the United States brought a GT suffix, yet few changes were made save a minor facelift and interim displacement increases. The Coupe was nicely equipped, and late-'87 U.S. versions received added standard items including a manual steel sunroof (formerly an option).

The 1981-1987 Audi Coupe is a long-shot collector's item in the United States, but it's scarce enough to be increasingly desired by at least a handful of enthusiasts as time goes by.

Pluses of the 1981-1987 Audi Coupe:

  • Solid German construction
  • Decent performance and economy
  • Secure, agile handling
  • Nice ride
  • Practical four/five-seater
  • Affordable

Minuses of the 1981-1987 Audi Coupe:

  • Mediocre over-the-shoulder vision
  • Throbby post-'83 engines
  • Will always be overshadowed by Quattro Turbo
  • Limited appreciation potential in United States

Production of the Audi Coupe (U.S. calendar-year sales)

  • 1981: 2,553
  • 1982: 4,236
  • 1983: 3,358
  • 1984: 3,520
  • 1985: 3,586
  • 1986: 2,846
  • 1987: 2,268

Specifications* of the 1981-1987 Audi Coupe (U.S. models):
Wheelbase, inches: 99.8
Length, inches: 177.0
Weight, pounds: 2,510
Price, new: $11,895-$18,895

*U.S. Models

Engines for the 1981-1987 Audi Coupe:

Type Size Horsepower Years
ohc I-5 2,144 cc 100 1981-1983
ohc I-5 2,226 cc 110 1984-1987
ohc I-5 2,309 cc 130 1987

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