Review: Audi B3 S2 (1993-95)

Overview

Released in October 1993, the Audi B3 S2 was a three-door liftback. Based on the B3 80 Coupe, the Audi S2 was powered by a 2.2-litre turbocharged inline five-cylinder engine that was mated to a six-speed manual transmission. This engine also featured an ‘overboost’ facility which could provide a short burst of manifold boost pressure to increase peak torque to 380 Nm between 2100 and 4000 rpm. Only 306 S2 models were manufactured between 1993 and 1995.

Body and suspension

The Audi S2 had a fully galvanised unitary construction all-steel body with independent front and rear suspension with coil springs and telescopic dampers. Furthermore, the front suspension utilised MacPherson struts and lower wishbones, while the rear axle had a four joint trapezium arm configuration.

quattro

The Audi S2 was fitted with Audi’s permanent four-wheel drive ‘quattro’ system which utilised a Torsen centre differential. In normal conditions, the system provided a 50:50 front:rear torque split, but up to 75 per cent of the engine’s torque could be directed to either axle if traction was lost. The S2 was also fitted with an electro-pneumatic rear locking differential which would automatically unlock once the vehicle exceeded 25 km/h.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Audi S2 included a driver’s airbag, ABS and front seatbelt pretensioners.

Features

Standard features for the Audi S2 included 16-inch alloy wheels with 205/55 R16Z tyres, a six speaker stereo with CD player, air conditioning, contoured front sports seats, leather seats, cruise control, front fog lights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, height adjustable front seats, a sunroof, trip computer and an immobiliser.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Audi S2