Audi Quattro Sport Quattro
The Audi Sport Quattro stands as one of the most legendary homologation specials in motorsport history, a shortened, widened, and dramatically more powerful version of the original Quattro built to meet Group B rally regulations. While the listing indicates 1980, the Sport Quattro was actually produced in 1984-1985 as a limited run of just 224 units, the minimum required for FIA Group B homologation.
The Sport Quattro's engine was a 2.1-liter inline-five with a single KKK turbocharger producing 306 horsepower in road-going trim. In competition form, the engine produced over 500 horsepower, demonstrating the extraordinary tuning potential of Audi's five-cylinder architecture. The engine's unique firing order created a distinctive sound that was unlike any other engine in motorsport -- an aggressive, staccato bark that echoed through the forests of Finland and the mountains of Monte Carlo.
The bodywork was substantially modified from the standard Quattro. The wheelbase was shortened by 320mm (12.6 inches), and the body was widened significantly to accommodate wider wheels and tires. The nose featured distinctive closed headlights behind flat glass panels, giving the Sport Quattro a unique frontal appearance. Kevlar and aluminum panels replaced steel where possible, reducing weight while increasing durability. The overall effect was a car that looked purposeful and aggressive -- clearly a competition machine with license plates.
The permanent all-wheel-drive system was the Quattro's defining technology. Using a center differential to distribute power to all four wheels, the system provided extraordinary traction in all conditions. In the loose-surface world of rally racing, this advantage was transformative -- the Quattro could accelerate out of corners while competitors' rear-wheel-drive cars struggled for grip. The technology was so effective that it changed the fundamental nature of rally racing.
Driving a Sport Quattro is an experience that demands commitment. The turbocharged five-cylinder has noticeable lag below 3500 rpm, then surges forward with violent intensity as the boost builds. The shortened wheelbase makes the car nervous at high speeds but agile on tight roads. The steering is heavy, the clutch requires a strong left leg, and the overall experience is raw and mechanical -- a genuine competition car that happens to be road-registered.
In competition, the Sport Quattro was formidable but challenging. Drivers like Walter Rohrl and Stig Blomqvist campaigned it in the World Rally Championship, achieving notable victories including Monte Carlo and San Remo. However, the Group B category was cancelled after the 1986 season following several fatal accidents, cutting short the Sport Quattro's competition career.
Today, the Audi Sport Quattro is one of the most valuable and sought-after 1980s performance cars. With only 224 produced, it is extraordinarily rare. Values have risen dramatically, with recent sales exceeding $400,000 for well-documented examples. The car's significance as a technology pioneer, its rally heritage, and its extreme rarity ensure its place among the most important sports cars of the 20th century.
With only 224 built, every Sport Quattro is documented. Verify chassis and engine numbers against the Audi registry. The turbocharged five-cylinder engine requires specialized knowledge to maintain. Check the turbocharger for wear and boost leaks. The shortened chassis should be inspected for stress cracks, particularly if the car has been used in competition. The Kevlar body panels should be checked for delamination. Provenance and documented history significantly affect value.
Hand-built at Audi's facility in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm, Germany. Only 224 examples were produced for Group B homologation purposes between 1984 and 1985.