Review of the 1985 Audi Coupe GT
From the January 1985 issue of Car and Driver.
The Audi Coupe GT has the potential to impress car enthusiasts with its quick and responsive nature, whether on straight roads or winding corners. It comfortably seats four individuals and bears a striking resemblance to the pricier Quattro Turbo Coupe. With a perfect blend of Old World stability and craftsmanship, it avoids the need for a hefty financial commitment.
Upon its introduction nearly four years ago, we anticipated that Audi would struggle to fulfill the high demand for the Coupe GT. However, in the 1984 model year, Audi sold only around 4,000 units in the U.S. This lackluster performance may seem due to a lingering perception of Audi as a manufacturer of unreliable vehicles; nevertheless, the overall U.S. sales for Audi increased significantly, from 42,600 cars in 1983 to approximately 70,000 in 1984, indicating that the brand’s image has improved. A more plausible explanation for the underwhelming sales of the Coupe GT is its unclear market positioning. Unlike vehicles with few notable strengths, the Coupe GT’s numerous virtues are balanced so equally that no single feature particularly stands out.
Design Insights
The Coupe GT’s body design features a steeply raked windshield and backlight, presenting a sporty yet spacious aesthetic that accommodates four large adults more comfortably than many four-door sedans of similar size. Many buyers expect coupes to compromise passenger space, which makes this model somewhat of a contradiction. Moreover, a facelift for the vehicle this year adds a smoother nose, including a tilted-back grille, flush headlights, and wraparound parking lights, contributing to an undeniably sleeker and modern appearance. However, these alterations do not clarify its market position, nor do they enhance the Coupe’s average drag coefficient of 0.39.
Interior Comfort and Functionality
Inside, the Coupe GT maintains a straightforward design, lacking racing stripes or excessive luxury. While the controls and instruments are adequate, there are no superfluous features to cater to sportier aspirations. Instead, the interior prioritizes comfort, ergonomic controls, durable materials, and understated elegance. Particularly, the 1985 dashboard boasts a soft, beautifully textured plastic cover, integrated speakers, and ample storage space.
The sensible approach to the design minimizes distractions for drivers. Instruments are simple yet effective, and controls are positioned conveniently for accessibility. Although such thoughtful layouts might not create strong showroom impressions, they only reveal their true worth after extended driving experiences.
Performance and Driving Experience
With an impressively low curb weight of 2,498 pounds, the Coupe GT delivers solid performance on the road. The chassis is rigid and sturdy, demonstrating no signs of creaking or instability, regardless of road conditions. Its suspension is adept at absorbing shocks while maintaining damped motions. The neutral steering and precise handling offered by the rack-and-pinion steering mechanism and front MacPherson struts enhance the driving experience, providing excellent straight-line stability.
Moreover, the Coupe GT’s powertrain features a modern five-cylinder engine, offering enhanced performance with improved power and torque metrics, translating to strong acceleration and driving responsiveness. Shifts are smooth, and the well-staged gear ratios make for enjoyable driving dynamics. Thanks to these attributes, the Coupe GT can race from 0 to 60 mph in just 9.0 seconds, all while maintaining a silky engine sound that echoes the refinement expected from high-performance German automobiles.
Conclusion
In summary, the Audi Coupe GT embodies a blend of performance, style, and practicality. Despite its understated virtues, the Coupe GT provides an engaging driving experience, appealing to those who appreciate quality and comfort without the need for ostentation. Moreover, with a base price of $15,250, it presents good value when compared to its European competitors. This model stands out as a compelling choice for discerning buyers who seek a reliable and enjoyable driving experience.
Counterpoints
Many appreciate the Coupe GT for its maturity, likening it to a well-rounded professional. Its unflappable nature makes it an enjoyable vehicle, excelling on varying terrains and adapting seamlessly to highway speeds. Consistency is key, and the Coupe GT rewards its driver with reliable handling and performance.
Despite its outstanding qualities, the Audi Coupe GT remains somewhat overlooked in the U.S. market, often eclipsed by larger Audi models. However, for those willing to explore its vast potential, this vehicle offers a fantastic combination of European craftsmanship, innovative design, and a stellar driving experience.
Specifications
1985 Audi Coupe GT
Vehicle Type: front-engine, front-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 2-door coupe
PRICE
Base/As Tested: $15,250/$16,545
Options: sunroof, $495; AM/FM-stereo radio/cassette, $380; rear wiper-washer, $220; trip computer, $200.
ENGINE
SOHC inline-5, iron block and aluminum head, port fuel injection
Displacement: 136 in3, 2226 cm3
Power: 110 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque: 122 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm
TRANSMISSION
5-speed manual
CHASSIS
Suspension, F/R: struts/trailing arms
Brakes, F/R: 10.1-in vented disc/7.9-in drum
Tires: Uniroyal Rallye 340/60
185/60HR-14
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 99.8 in
Length: 177.3 in
Width: 66.3 in
Height: 53.1 in
Passenger Volume, F/R: 47/37 ft3
Trunk Volume: 11 ft3
Curb Weight: 2498 lb
C/D TEST RESULTS
60 mph: 9.0 sec
1/4-Mile: 16.6 sec @ 80 mph
100 mph: 34.1 sec
Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 9.2 sec
Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 10.2 sec
Top Speed: 115 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 209 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.77 g
C/D FUEL ECONOMY
Observed: 19 mpg
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
City/Highway: 19/25 mpg
Csaba Csere
Contributing Editor
Csaba Csere has been a part of Car and Driver since 1980 and has held various editorial roles, retiring as Editor-in-Chief in 2008. He actively engages in automotive journalism and races while affectionately maintaining his classic collection of vehicles.
