Audi Quattro

vs

Porsche 944

Germany vs Germany — 1980 vs 1985

Audi Quattro (1980)
Porsche 944 (1985)
Specifications
Quattro Ur-Quattro (20V Turbo)944 Turbo S
Horsepower220 hp250 hp
Torque228 lb-ft258 lb-ft
Engine Size2,226 cc2,479 cc
0-60 mph5.9 sec5.5 sec
Top Speed143 mph162 mph
¼ Mile14.3 sec13.8 sec
Weight2,976 lbs
Wheelbase2,524 mm2,400 mm
Length4,404 mm4,200 mm
Units Produced11,4521,635
Original MSRP$35,950
Value (Excellent)$150,000$85,000
Collectibility8/105/10
Rarity7/106/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1985 Porsche 944 Turbo S with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro (20V Turbo) offers stronger collectibility, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

In the world of Sports Car cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro (20V Turbo) versus the 1985 Porsche 944 Turbo S. Both hail from Malaise era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1985 Porsche 944 Turbo S holds a clear advantage in raw power with 250 hp compared to 220 hp, a 30-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Audi Quattro uses a Inline-5 Turbo 20V (RR) displacing 2,226 cc, while the Porsche 944 relies on a Inline-4 Turbo SOHC 8V with 2,479 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1985 Porsche 944 Turbo S edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 5.9 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,635 units built, the 1985 Porsche 944 Turbo S is considerably scarcer than the Audi Quattro's 11,452 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro (20V Turbo) rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.