Audi Quattro

vs

Ford Mustang SVO

Germany vs USA — 1980 vs 1984

Audi Quattro (1980)
Ford Mustang SVO (1984)
Specifications
Quattro Ur-Quattro 20VMustang SVO 2.3 Turbo
Horsepower220 hp205 hp
Torque228 lb-ft240 lb-ft
Engine Size2,226 cc2,301 cc
0-60 mph6.1 sec7.5 sec
Top Speed143 mph138 mph
¼ Mile14.8 sec15.5 sec
Weight2,899 lbs
Wheelbase2,524 mm2,552 mm
Length4,404 mm4,541 mm
Units Produced9,844
Original MSRP$15,596
Value (Excellent)$120,000$45,000
Collectibility5/107/10
Rarity7/107/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro 20V brings quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1984 Ford Mustang SVO 2.3 Turbo answers with stronger collectibility, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between Germany and USA automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro 20V versus 1984 Ford Mustang SVO 2.3 Turbo is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro 20V producing 220 hp and the 1984 Ford Mustang SVO 2.3 Turbo delivering 205 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Audi Quattro uses a Inline-5 SOHC 10V / DOHC 20V Turbocharged displacing 2,226 cc, while the Ford Mustang SVO relies on a Inline-4 SOHC 8V Turbocharged with 2,301 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro 20V edges ahead at 6.1 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro 20V commands a significant premium over the 1984 Ford Mustang SVO 2.3 Turbo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1984 Ford Mustang SVO 2.3 Turbo rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.