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It seems a long time ago that Audi's third-generation 100 burst onto the scene and left the competition speechless. It challenged Mercedes and BMW's technical leadership in the luxury car sector for the first time. Innovations included stunning aerodynamics, flush glazing and lower weight, yet better crash performance than the previous 100. Rivals makers suddenly found their own models lacking a certain amount of that precious new commodity, Vorsprung Durch Technik.
The previous two 100s had failed to gain much of a foothold in the UK luxury market. Styling had been conservative and, five-cylinder engines apart, there was little for buyers to remember about these worthy, but dull, contenders. The 1982 car changed all that at a stroke and began the long process of image building that led to Audis being thought of as true luxury competitors.
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Detailed ratings
Full-Sized Executive Cars
What you get
A car that still looks modern, handles and holds the road very well (especially any quattro version), is unlikely to rust, has loads of room and is very economical for such a big machine.
Equipment is not overly-generous, though many cars will be full of options such as air-conditioning, a sunroof and central locking. Keep an eye out then, for any well-equipped cars as you won't pay much more than the standard spec equivalents.
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What to look for
Mechanically, these cars are well-proven as well as very reliable and strong. The five-cylinder engines are not particularly smooth running but they were known for this trait even from new.
The power steering can give trouble, though. If you find a leak, it'll be expensive to replace the rack. Other than this, the 100 has no serious weak-points. Check all the electrical 'convenience' features, though, as something like a jammed electric sunroof may not be cheap to have remedied.
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Replacement parts
(approx based on a 1992 100 2.0 excl VAT) A clutch assembly will be around £170; an alternator should be close to £100 and a radiator around £170.
A starter motor will be something like £120, brake pads are around £50, a replacement headlamp close to £160 and a full exhaust is about £790 (including the catalyst),
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On the road
The 100 has always been like a breath of fresh air, compared to driving other heavy and stodgy rivals. The controls are light and precise, noise levels are low due to that ultra-smooth shape and the handling is generally very good. There may be a little more roll than you'd expect but that's a small price to pay for the super-smooth ride that comes as standard, whichever model you choose.
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Overall
Audi's slogan translates as 'advancement through technology' and that's exactly what the third generation 100 brought with it. It makes a great used buy for someone who needs a big, strong and reliable car that's easy on fuel.
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