Audi Quattro

vs

Porsche 911 Carrera

Germany vs Germany — 1980 vs 1984

Audi Quattro (1980)
Porsche 911 Carrera (1984)
Specifications
Quattro Ur-Quattro (20V Turbo)911 Carrera 3.2
Horsepower220 hp231 hp
Torque228 lb-ft209 lb-ft
Engine Size2,226 cc3,164 cc
0-60 mph5.9 sec5.3 sec
Top Speed143 mph155 mph
¼ Mile14.3 sec13.6 sec
Weight2,976 lbs2,668 lbs
Wheelbase2,524 mm2,272 mm
Length4,404 mm4,291 mm
Units Produced11,45276,473
Original MSRP$35,950$31,950
Value (Excellent)$150,000$135,000
Collectibility8/108/10
Rarity7/104/10
The Verdict

The 1984 Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro (20V Turbo) counters with greater rarity, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

The 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro (20V Turbo) and 1984 Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2 stand as two of the most notable Sports Car cars from Malaise era. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro (20V Turbo) producing 220 hp and the 1984 Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2 delivering 231 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Audi Quattro uses a Inline-5 Turbo 20V (RR) displacing 2,226 cc, while the Porsche 911 Carrera relies on a Flat-6 SOHC 12V with 3,164 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1984 Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2 edges ahead at 5.3 seconds versus 5.9 seconds. The Porsche 911 Carrera carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 308 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 11,452 units built, the 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro (20V Turbo) is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 911 Carrera's 76,473 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.