Audi Quattro

vs

Audi V8

Germany vs Germany — 1980 vs 1990

Audi Quattro (1980)
Audi V8 (1990)
Specifications
Quattro Ur-Quattro (20V Turbo)V8 quattro 3.6
Horsepower220 hp250 hp
Torque228 lb-ft251 lb-ft
Engine Size2,226 cc3,562 cc
0-60 mph5.9 sec7.2 sec
Top Speed143 mph152 mph
¼ Mile14.3 sec15.3 sec
Weight2,976 lbs3,792 lbs
Wheelbase2,524 mm2,693 mm
Length4,404 mm4,870 mm
Units Produced11,45221,322
Original MSRP$35,950$52,000
Value (Excellent)$150,000$30,000
Collectibility8/106/10
Rarity7/107/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro (20V Turbo) brings quicker acceleration, lighter weight, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1990 Audi V8 quattro 3.6 answers with more power, higher top speed, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

Audi has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro (20V Turbo) with the 1990 Audi V8 quattro 3.6 highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1990 Audi V8 quattro 3.6 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 Audi V8 relies on a V8 DOHC 32V with 3,562 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro (20V Turbo) edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 7.2 seconds. The Audi Quattro carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 816 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro (20V Turbo) commands a significant premium over the 1990 Audi V8 quattro 3.6, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro (20V Turbo) rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.