Review

Review: Audi C4 100 (1992-94)

2.5 stars

  • Refined and responsive V6 petrol engines
  • Galvanised body resistant to rust
  • Underwhelming handling
  • Pedals at uneven heights
  • Head restraints reduce rear vision

Overview

Released in January 1992, the Audi C4 100 was initially available as a mid-size sedan. Manufactured in Neckarsulm, Germany, the Audi 100 2.8 was powered by a 2.8-litre single overhead cam (SOHC) V6 petrol engine that was mated to a four-speed ZF automatic transmission. In October 1993, however, the range was expanded with the introduction of wagon (Avant) models and 2.6 sedan variants (see table below). The 2.6 variants were solely available as front-wheel drive models, though the 2.8 variants were available with Audi’s ‘quattro’ four-wheel drive system. The C4.I 100 was replaced by the C4.II A6 in November 1994.

Audi C4 100 specifications
Body Variant Drive Years Engine Trans. Peak power Peak torque
Sedan 2.6 FWD 1993-94 2.6-litre ABC petrol V6 4sp auto 110 kW at 5750 rpm 225 Nm at 3500 rpm
2.8 FWD,
quattro
1992-94 2.8-litre AAH petrol V6 4sp auto 128 kW at 5500 rpm 245 Nm at 3000 rpm
Wagon 2.8 FWD,
quattro
1993-94 2.8-litre AAH petrol V6 4sp auto 128 kW at 5500 rpm 245 Nm at 3000 rpm

quattro

The second-generation quattro system for the Audi 100 provided permanent four-wheel drive with a Torsen centre differential distributing torque between the front and rear axles. 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 system also included an electro-pneumatic rear locking differential which would automatically unlock once the vehicle exceeded 25 km/h.

Dimensions

Compared to the Audi C3 100, the Audi C4 100 sedan was 2 mm shorter (at 4790 mm), 37 mm narrower (1777 mm) and 2 mm lower (1420 mm). For front wheel drive models, the wheelbase was 2687 mm long, but this increased 5 mm (to 2692 mm) for quattro models. Compared to the sedan, the Avant models had a 20 mm higher roofline (at 1440 mm).

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Audi 100 included a driver’s airbag and ABS.

Features

Standard features for the Audi 100 included 15-inch alloy wheels, a four speaker stereo with a radio and cassette player, climate control air conditioning, power adjustable front seats, cruise control, front fog lights, central locking, power windows, power mirrors and a trip computer. The 2.8 variants were further equipped with a CD player.

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