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Audi

Audi - quattro (1988)

Audi quattro – the iconic all‑wheel‑drive sports sedan first introduced in 1980 – still turns heads on the road and on collectors’ forums today. Whether you’re looking at a 1988 model that stole the spotlight in the early SUV‑era or tracking a late‑90s variant that blended comfort with that unmistakable quattro character, knowing the current Audi quattro price landscape is essential. Below we break down the specs that define the car, give realistic depreciation numbers, compare it to its peers, and help answer the common question: what is a 1988 Audi quattro worth?

  • Model year: 1988 – 1998 variants
  • Engine: 1.8‑L to 4.0‑L inline‑4 or V6 fours in later years (e.g., 2.0‑L TFSI, 2.8‑L V6)
  • Transmission: 4‑speed automatic (early models), 5‑speed manual or torque‑converter automatic in later releases
  • Drive: Permanent all‑wheel‑drive (quattro)
  • Power: 105–220 hp depending on year & engine
  • Torque: 131–241 lb‑ft
  • Fuel type: Gasoline; occasional diesel/NGT in later 90s models
  • Dimensions:
    Length: 4,244–4,596 mm
    Width: 1,801–1,837 mm
    Height: 1,402–1,445 mm
  • Wheelbase: 2,380–2,500 mm
  • Weight: 1,415–1,780 kg (depending on trim)
  • Interior: Leather or cloth seats (depending on trim), 4‑seat, premium audio systems, optional navigation in later years
  • Safety features: Dual‑zone ABS, airbags, optional traction control, and upgraded braking systems in the late 80s/early 90s

When you check the used Audi quattro price for a 1988 model, you’ll find that the value hinges on several factors: mileage, trim level, mechanical condition, and service history. In the U.S., the rough range is between $2,500 and $4,500, though pristine examples can fetch close to $8,000. European markets typically see a similar spread, albeit with a slightly higher average due to lower import tariffs and a stronger collector culture. It’s essential to remember that the Audi quattro’s depreciation is less aggressive than that of many contemporary sedans, thanks to its enduring performance pedigree.

Depreciation Insight

  • First year: typically loses 15–20% of its value in the first year after sale.
  • Years 2–5: average loss of % per year.
  • Beyond five years: depreciation slows to approximately 2–4% per annum.
  • After 10 years: the vehicle may retain 35–45% of its original buying price if it’s been maintained meticulously.

These percentages align with industry reports for high‑performance European cars that incorporate robust all‑wheel‑drive systems. Because the quattro’s transfer case and suspension have proven longevity, enthusiasts often find that a 1988 model at 150,000 km is in the same ballpark as a 1995 model at 80,000 km.

What is a 1988 Audi quattro worth?

Answering this question accurately requires a deep dive into regional market data and individual vehicle specifics. However, based on recent auction results and certified pre‑owned listings:

  • Standard 1988 quattro (2.0‑L engine, manual) – $2,800–$4,200.
  • Upgraded trim (short‑hood “L” trim, optional leather) – $3,500–$5,500.
  • Classic restoration project – $7,000–$9,000 (where original parts are used).

These valuations are generally consistent across Europe and the U.S., with minor adjustments for import tariffs, local dealer margins, and class‑certificate availability.

Comparison Context

When placed side‑by‑side with its contemporaries, the Audi quattro holds a distinct niche: