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When the Audi Quattro was first released in 1980 it was only the second production road car to have four wheel drive. The honour of being the first went to the Jensen FF back in 1966, although that was weighed down by the heavy and unreliable transmission.

Until 1980, four wheel drive had only been deemed suitable for off road vehicles, however with the Audi Quattro all that changed and the world of rallying would never be the same again.

The company wanted to ensure the 4WD would be created for more usability than the first vehicle with 4WD. To make this happen the transfer box and driveshaft needed modification. The Quattro was built with a smaller differential to enable a front mount for the gearbox. The idea provided two drive- shafts instead of one. The first driveshaft placed emphasis on the front wheels, with the other driveshaft for the back tyres.

The mechanics of the Audi Quattro presented a vehicle with grip and traction for various road conditions. The engine had 200 horsepower with a turbo style. It took 7.1 seconds to reach sixty miles per hour from a stopped position. The car was able to reach 137 miles per hour even with 4WD. The remarkable aspects of the vehicle helped it make a name at the World Rally as well as on the regular road.

For the 1980 Rally rules changed. It was this modification which allowed the Quattro to enter even with the 4WD. Other car manufacturers were of the impression that the Audi would not do well. These thoughts were based on the heaviness of the 4WD system. The manufacturers were in for a surprise when it was learned what Audi did in order to make the vehicle lighter. The rally car was on the top at world rallies for six years. There were numerous series of the car, ending with the Audi Sport Quattro S1.

The S1 series car was perhaps the most impressive. It had front spoilers making it unlike any other vehicle in appearance. This was added to by the 590 horsepower of the 2.1 litre engine. The engine also had five cylinders. The point of such a design was for the win.

There was little doubt that the noise of the turbo and the vehicle model enlivened the rally scene.

Production of the Audi Quattro road car ceased in 1991, however the Quattro name badge is still used today in Audi’s four wheel drive models today. Although the original Audi Quattro or Ur Quattro as its known by specialist buyers, Ur means original in German, is still a highly prized and sought after vehicle.

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