1987 Audi 5000CS quattro Avant

One of the reasons it’s hard to get excited about the Type 43 Audi is just how far forward the bar was moved with the Type 44. Similar to the leap from the 6-series to the 8-series BMW, the Type 44 was a radical departure both in style, aerodynamics, and chassis dynamics. The basic Type 44 chassis would endure a remarkable run, too – from its basic layout in the Forschungsauto FV Auto 2000 from the 1981 Frankfurt Auto Show right through the derivative D11 V8 quattro through the 1994 model year. The C3 was revolutionary in its incorporation of modern aerodynamic devices, helping to drop drag coefficients to a then-excellent .30 cd. The Audi design prompted many copies, the most notable of which was the very popular Ford Taurus.

But the C3 was about more than just a slick body. Underneath it continued the C2’s turbocharging on top-tier models. With the addition of intercooling, power was up quite a bit from the prior model. Where the 1983 5000 Turbo generated 130 horsepower and 142 lb.ft of torque in U.S. trim, the C3’s MC1 brought 158 horsepower and 166 lb.ft of torque to the party. It was good enough to prompt notoriously BMW-friendly Car and Driver to name it to its ’10 Best’ list for the first time. In the later 200 20V, it also brought a tamed version of Audi’s Sport Quattro motor to market. The Ingolstadt company also pioneered full body galvanization, something that would become the norm for many newer cars moving forward. That body also grew, as Audi added its signature ‘Avant’ model to the lineup. But of course the big news was the 1986 addition of the word synonymous with Audi in the 1980s and ever since – quattro. Combine them, and you’ve got a reason to click!

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1987 Audi 5000CS quattro Avant on eBay

Year: 1987
Model: 5000CS quattro Avant
VIN: WAUEE0449HA063041
Engine: 2.2 liter turbocharged inline-5
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 155,000 mi
Location: Vallejo, California
Price: No Reserve Auction

Audi Barn Find Time Capsule. Runs and drives. 5 Speed. Brandnew clutch and slave cylinder. I think it’s about 155,000+ miles. Needs tires. Most of the rubber bushings probably need to be replaced. It was in storage for about 20 years. I have theservice manual for it and all the original paperwork and service history. Clean Title in my name.

The good? Maraschino Red Metallic is a neat color on the 5000, it’s got Fuchs wheels and what appears to be Sierra Beige leather (though we don’t see much of it), and it generally seems to be in decent shape. The roof racks were either removed or it was a rare model that wasn’t ordered with them, and it appears that it was a California car for the past 30 years. Replacing the clutch on one is also an expensive job, so if that was just done it’s a nice bit of service for the next owner. The downside? Sorting all the rubber bits and seals that have deteriorated from sitting for so long will be difficult, without a doubt. Still, this is a no reserve auction and should remain pretty affordable. If you want a neat German wagon that marches to the beat of a different drummer (or five), this is a great alternative.

-Carter