Audi 90 Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Audi 90

The Audi 90 emerged in 1984 as Audi's answer for a more athletic, well-equipped mid-size alternative, positioned between the longstanding Audi 80 and the executive-class 100. Drawing several design cues and components from the Audi Coupé GT, the 90 set itself apart from the series with a focus on higher performance and features that made it competitive against rivals like the Mercedes 190 and BMW 3 Series of the era. Notably, the Audi 90 only came with inline five-cylinder petrol engines, with a rare four-cylinder turbodiesel exception. This model also marked milestones for Audi: anti-lock braking became available for a premium, and the familiar quattro all-wheel-drive system was offered from the outset. The second generation (B3/Typ 89), introduced in 1987, brought a fully galvanised body to fight corrosion and even richer appointments. Production continued until 1991, after which the Audi 90 was phased out, with the model lineup unified as the Audi 80 until the arrival of the A4.

Model History and Evolution

The Audi 90 was produced in two main generations: the first (B2/Typ 85) from 1984–1987, and the second (B3/Typ 89) from 1987–1991. The 90’s predecessors were the upper trim versions of the Audi 80; its successor effectively became the Audi 80 B4, which later fed directly into the Audi A4 lineage. The B2/Typ 85 featured five-cylinder petrol engines with rare four-cylinder turbodiesels, while the B3/Typ 89 lineup offered even more powerful engines and a luxuriously equipped interior. In North America, some Audi 90s were sold earlier as the Audi 4000 CS. Motorsport fans will recall the iconic IMSA GTO series Audi 90 Quattro, which left a mark in American racing, winning seven times in the series.

Highlights and Unique Features of the Audi 90

Audi 90 models set themselves apart from their 80-series siblings with features like full-width reflector panels between the rear lights, integrated thermoplastic bumpers, broad-beam headlamps, and a generally more premium level of fit and finish. From a technical perspective, the five-cylinder engines—famed for their distinctive acoustic signature—were closely associated with Ferdinand Piëch’s engineering philosophy and became a hallmark of Audi’s 1980s performance image. Equipment highlights frequently included power steering, central locking, electric windows, air conditioning, and optional cruise control. quattro all-wheel drive was also available, making the Audi 90 an especially capable machine in its class.

In terms of supply, the B3/Typ 89 variant is by far the most common, with around 70.8% of all listed Audi 90s. In demand, this generation attracts an estimated 77.6% of listing views, showing a strong preference among enthusiasts and collectors for this particular series.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Within the Audi 90 lineup, the highest luxury trim was the 'CD' model. These vehicles offered exclusive interiors (such as 'Brighton' cloth in colours like 'Brasil' brown), advanced features like climate control, headlight washers, and cruise control as standard or optional, as well as colour-coordinated body accents. Motorsport-derived versions, especially the IMSA GTO homologation models, remain particularly coveted. Some original cars are now found in museum-level or collector-restored condition, backed by detailed service histories and Classic DATA appraisals.

Engine, Transmission and Handling

A defining trait of the Audi 90 is its five-cylinder engine, known both for dependability and a unique sound. Power output for standard petrol engines ranged from 115 PS up to 158 PS in the 20-valve versions. Most versions accelerate from 0–100 km/h in around 9.5 seconds, with top speeds near 187–199 km/h for the higher-spec models. The five-speed manual gearbox is standard (including 'sport' gearboxes in some variants). The quattro-badged cars feature mechanical lockable differentials, giving them outstanding grip in adverse conditions and a clear advantage in dynamic handling. Notably, the 2.0 10V and 2.3E engines earned praise for robustness and mid-range torque. 1. Audi 90 B3/Typ 89 2.3E quattro: 170 PS, advanced chassis, best all-weather performance. 2. Audi 90 B2/Typ 85 2.2E: 136 PS, sportier trim, historic significance. 3. Audi 90 B3 20V: 158 PS five-cylinder, rare, highly regarded for driving dynamics.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Designers of the Audi 90 focused on integrating form and function, from the wrap-around full-width rear reflector panel to chrome or colour-matched bumpers and cleanly designed side trims. Interiors featured optional Savoy velour or Brighton cloth upholstery, ergonomic sport seats, and a range of period-correct trims. Accessory options were extensive: electric steel sunroof, original rubber boot mats, genuine Blaupunkt radio/cassette units, and dealer-offered alloy wheels (6Jx14 and 7x15 were standard in upper trims). Paint and finish options included metallic colours, and detail touches like window weather lips and black door/window surrounds were hallmarks of the upmarket specification. For quattro models, colour-coded side skirts completed the athletic stance.

Other Noteworthy Features

Certain original Audi 90s include rare features such as manual or electric differential locks, original BN-Pipes stainless exhausts, and central locking systems. Documentation, such as full service books and manuals, is often still found with these classics, increasing value and providing transparency for collectors. Some early models did not have catalytic converters, which influences eligibility for historic registration in some markets.

Summary

The Audi 90 stands as a classic mid-size Audi whose luxury, breakthrough technology, and unmistakable engineering made it a strong contender in the executive saloon market of the 1980s and early '90s. Its robust engines, thoughtful standard features, galvanised body, and available quattro all-wheel drive differentiate it clearly from its contemporaries. Today, the B3/Typ 89 is particularly sought-after, and many examples are preserved in excellent, original or restored condition, representing the height of Audi’s ethos from the Ferdinand Piëch era.