1986 Audi 100 Avant CD 2.3

Summary:

Fast, comfortable, almost classic cheap car with almost no maintenance costs

Faults:

Transmission won't go up for the first 5 minutes (cold)

Transmission went back (!) at 200 km/h.

Rear door falls down when opened (depending on temperature)

Steering house leaks (have to fill up the hydraulic oil every 4 months).

General Comments:

Incredible trustworthy and fast engine.

Almost no repair costs in the last 6 years.

Great comfortable chairs.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 13th September, 2002

19th Oct 2002, 08:21

The problem of the tailgate dropping down in cold weather can be solved by fitting two new gas struts. I had the same fault on my car and it was a nuisance until I had the repair done. The repair was inexpensive and since then it has been fine.

29th Aug 2010, 03:26

I have just purchased a 1995 2.3E Estate with 223,000 km on the clock. I was amazed at how quiet it is while driving at speed, no engine, road noise or rattles. Stable on the road, and at first it appeared very economical as I got 450km from half a tank, but then the needle shot down the gauge. 24 miles per gallon, which I don't think is very economical considering our 1982 Mercedes 280SE does exactly the same.

Motor is tight, uses no oil and has no odd noises. Leather upholstery, wonderful and comfortable on a trip. A 4 speed automatic with a sport button. Next thing I shall try with this lovely car is to rechip it. I am very pleased with everything about this car; it is built to last, and I love it!

1993 Audi 100 Avant 2.3E

Summary:

Ideal for travelling long distances

Faults:

Replaced battery at around 90k. Regular maintenance schedule.

Electronic engine control has failed occasionally: engine stops because RPM falls back too low, especially when rolling out after long motorway stretches. It's rather annoying to have an engine stop at the first roundabout or traffic light. The car is so quiet when idling that one does not even notice!

The problem is avoided by downshifting and double-clutching. Several Audi technicians could not find the cause nor a solution.

Otherwise it's a great car.

General Comments:

Great car, very good for long distances. Pleasant to drive, does not tire the driver nor the passengers. The Avant model has plenty of volume, enough for camping gear for 2 adults and 3 children.

The 5-cyl engine is nice, smooth, powerful, and it produces a unique sound. However, the special engine architecture makes some repairs quite expensive though, because it takes more time.

The mileage is a lot better for long hauls on the motorway (8 l per 100 km) than for city traffic (13 l).

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 19th June, 2000

31st Jan 2001, 12:57

The stalling may be a dry solder joint. My 100 did pretty much the same sort of thing. Suggest you take it to an expert on Bosch engine management systems.