1983 Audi Coupe GT

If yesterday’s low mile 1985 Coupe GT got you excited about the classic Audis, but you prefer the early design a bit more and are short on cash, we’re here for you. The early Coupe GTs have are remarkably different looking for the same overall design; much closer to the original Quattro, they featured the more upright quad-headlight grill, but most notably the U.S. spec “diving board” bumpers. There were other upgrades to later cars that were missing on the early cars – things that probably don’t matter to most individuals, like the larger 4×108 bolt pattern and brakes on the mid-1984 up cars. Sound like I’m being pedantic? Well, for some folks it matters, because it’s much easier to source Volkswagen wheel upgrades for the early 4x100mm cars, as well as some simple brake upgrades – such as running Volkswagen 16V brakes. Overall driving experience is about the same between the early and late cars, so perhaps if you like the design of the original this car will be for you:

Year: 1983
Model: Coupe GT
Engine: 2.2 liter inline-5
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 99,877 mi
Price: No Reserve Auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1983 Audi Coupe GT on eBay

This 1983 Audi Coupe GT is a good running and driving example with only 99K miles, but it could use a bit of cosmetic work.

The paint is dull and the clear coat is beginning to peel in areas. There are also several sap stains and the left rear quarter panel has a dent. (see photo) The only rust is three small bubbles below the left rear side window and look like an easy repair, but the whole car will need a repaint.

Inside, the seats all look good, but the drivers seat has wear from entry and exit. The dash top has several small heat cracks and the sunroof appears to have been sealed with silicone. (crank works, and it would probably open if freed up) All controls appear to work, with the exception of the tachometer. (even the AC is cold) Stereo is a period Blaupunkt pull out, but needs the code to work. The OXS light is also glowing, but the car passed smog fine.

Mechanically it runs and drives well. Engine purrs nicely, the cluch feels good, and even the brakes are strong. Tires are about 50% worn.

A rare and now collectible car that can be driven while you make necessary repairs.

No Reserve!

Well, while it looks good in the photos, this car may be a “50-50” – that’s that it looks good at 50 feet, or 50 m.p.h. going by. There are some exterior needs and interior needs to the car; the paint has some damage and there is a sizable dent forward of the rear driver’s wheel – there are a few curves in the profile of the panel and it may be difficult to get that popped out. The interior similarly needs some attention to the seats and dash, and apparently some clever (or, not particularly clever) individual sealed the sunroof with silicone. Interestingly, the car wears 1986-1987 Audi 4000 front wheel drive center caps; they’re unique to the 4x100mm cars even though they look the same as the 4x108mm cars. However, I don’t think any of these items can’t be overcome. You can pretty easily source a dash out of a later car, the dent can be repaired, and there are seat options galore from not only Audi but also Volkswagen models. The key is the price; at no reserve on the auction, the car stands currently below $1,500 with about 2 days remaining. If the price can stay below $2,500, I’d consider it pretty well bought – finding these early GTs in good condition can be pretty hard, and while it needs work it looks like a pretty solid base. Drop another $1,500 to $2,000 correcting the faults and you’d have yourself a quite nice runner that is very unique!

-Carter