The Audi TT has achieved cult status on our roads, but even its unmistakable upside-down-bathtub-with-huge-wheels styling couldn’t last forever. As a tribute to the 1998 original, Audi SA has made available 28 examples of the TT quattro Sport.
The Audi TT has achieved cult status on our roads, but even its unmistakable upside-down-bathtub-with-huge-wheels styling couldn’t last forever. As a tribute to the 1998 original, Audi SA has made available 28 examples of the TT quattro Sport.
Although the TT’s successor has not been unveiled yet (perhaps we’ll see it at the Geneva or Paris Shows later this year), Audi says this limited edition model is “the final, high performance incarnation of the TT” and the car will definitely appeal to collectors.
Although first impressions suggest otherwise, the TT quattro Sport is not just a tarted-up version of the 1,8T. The special edition model’s 1,8-litre turbocharged powerplant develops 176 kW (up from 162 kW) and peak torque of 320 N.m (an increase of 20 N.m) from 2 300 to 5 000 r/min and is mated with the six-speed manual transmission from the TT 3,2 quattro.
Audi claims the TT quattro Sport will accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 5,9 seconds (at sea level) and achieve a limited top speed of 250 km/h. Its bodyshell is the same as that of the 1,8T except for the rear floor, which was also adopted from the 3,2, and the battery is located in the rear for better weight distribution.
The car’s unladen weight, compared to that of a TT 1,8T, has been reduced by 75 kg to 1 390 kilograms thanks to the removal of the latter’s rear bench seat, which has been replaced by a transverse brace and a net partition for securing items of luggage.
The Sport is distinguishable by its two-colour scheme. The roof is painted in Phantom Black, and the body is available in Avus Silver, Misano Red, Mauritius Blue, Silver or Phantom Black with the backs of the bucket seats matching the exterior colour.
The S line exterior package includes special bumpers, modified side sills, 18-inch cast aluminium wheels and red brake calipers and the diffuser trim, with its two black tailpipes, at the rear. In keeping with the two-colour theme, the air inlets at the front, the exterior mirror housings and the rear spoiler and diffuser are in a contrasting colour.
Inside, the steering wheel, handbrake and gear lever knob are trimmed in Alcantara, to match the Alcantara/leather upholstery. Xenon headlights and climate control air-conditioning are standard, with a Bose sound system and satellite navigation optional.
The TT quattro Sport costs R380 000 and includes a five-year/100 000 km Freeway maintenance plan.