Audi

In 1972, the Audi 80 was released as successor to the F103 models. It was was available as either a two-door or four-door saloon and it provided the company with a viable rival to the Opel Ascona and Ford Taunus. The Audi 80 was a clean break from the Auto Union era, being equipped with a range of brand new 1.3- and 1.5-litre four-cylinder engines; the first appearance of the now legendary series of engines, whose descendants are still used in VW Group vehicles to the present day. In September 1973, the sporty 80 GT, featuring a 1.6-litre engine was added to the range.

1972

A facelift in autumn 1976 brought about a revised front end in the style of the newly introduced Audi 100 with square instead of round headlights, 1.6- instead of 1.5-litre engines and a new 80 GTE model with a fuel-injected version of the 1.6-litre engine, replacing the former 80 GT. In certain markets, a five-door stationwagon was offered, effectively a rebadged Volkswagen Passat with Audi front panels.

1977

In September 1978, the second generation Audi 80 was introduced, designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro. The stationwagon was no longer available, since the Volkswagen Passat filled that role. The new model was intended to move the 80 upmarket from the mid-sized family segment to a compact executive model, pitched to rival the BMW 3 Series. It also acted as a replacement for the NSU Ro 80 that ceased production the year before.