Sometimes a car is just a car. By that, we merely imply that they are cars according to the dictionary’s definition. On the other side, certain vehicles are legendary. Whether in terms of performance, road handling, or, in the case of the Audi TT, design. These vehicles stand apart from the rest of the automotive landscape and get widespread acclaim in the process. These vehicles are the ones that breathe new life into the automotive industry. They push the envelope and demonstrate what is possible.
In the late 1990s, the Audi TT was a vehicle that completely blew our automotive minds. It appeared to have traveled from the future. It was unlike anything else because it was clear, uncomplicated, perfectly balanced, and clean. Given how far it deviated from the standard, it didn’t even resemble a typical Audi. When it first came out, it was only offered in left-hand-drive configuration. However, the desire to acquire one was so intense that many owners brought them to the UK before the right-hand-drive model was available. Over twenty years later, we still feel the same need for the car we had to have. True to its definition of a modern classic, the Audi TT. Additionally, it’s still a reasonably priced automobile to purchase, so the time is unquestionably now.
In This Article...
An introduction to the Audi TT
The Audi TT concept debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1995, and the TTS roadster concept debuted at the Tokyo Motor Show the following year. It was the result of design research done at the Volkswagen Group Design Center in beautiful California. The concept was created by J Mays and Freeman Thomas, who drew design inspiration from vintage Auto Union vehicles. The body was simple and streamlined with thoughtful design elements throughout. Nothing was excessive; obviously, less was more.
The concept was well received by the media, although there was some skepticism about how much the automobile would change to meet manufacturing requirements. After all, during this transformation, the design and purity of a concept automobile are sometimes lost. There was a lot to deliver after Audi made promises about the production vehicle, including that it would be a 2+2 or a roadster, that it would be reasonably inexpensive to construct (due to sharing the Golf’s base), and that it would be a sports car that could be used on a daily basis. But Audi succeeded.
The legendary Isle of Man race and vintage NSU models served as inspiration for the naming of the production TT, which debuted in 1998 and was absolutely gorgeous. Very little of the concept automobile was lost. In actuality, the addition of a rear quarterlight was the only significant modification. It was a concept car for the road other than that.
The 1.8 20V turbocharged four-cylinder engine that drove the TT offered 180 or 225 horsepower. Additionally, customers could choose front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive using Audi’s renowned Quattro system. It was a swift, powerful vehicle with plenty of grip and composure. Despite some controversy, it was a true driver’s car.
Due to a design defect, several early automobiles were engaged in collisions. Due to the lack of a rear spoiler, the TT’s rear became light at high speeds, which led to a loss of traction and accidents. Audi fixed the problem by swiftly recalling all TTs and installing a rear spoiler. Ironically, those cars with no spoilers are now the most expensive since collectors value them as true rarities.
The TT would later add a few more cylinders, see two model changes, and solidify its status as a legend within the Audi lineup. This is the automobile to buy if you want a sporty vehicle that you can use without much sacrifice on a daily basis.
What are prices like?
The early four-cylinder variants are the ones we’re concentrating on here (the TT didn’t have six cylinders until 2003). The earliest TT is, in our opinion, the purest and most authentic model. the one that closely resembles that 1995 concept automobile.
The good news is that you can get behind the wheel for very little money if you’re interested in a TT. 750 will easily purchase a 180 horsepower 2+2. You can ride in a roadster for $1,000. They are currently quite affordable. But there is a warning. A inexpensive car will have a lot of miles on it, be a little beat up, and, if it has a service history at all, it won’t have a good one.
Instead, spend twice as much, or about 2,000, to buy a good, well-maintained, unaltered early TT 180bhp. Consider 2,500 for a respectable roadster. It’s interesting to note that you should up the price by at least $500 if you can find a coveted “no spoiler” TT.
Budget anywhere from 4,000 and over if you want to purchase the best of the best. The vehicles in this category will have minimal mileage (less than 50,000), be in superb condition, and proudly display a thorough service history. But even if these are the best vehicles available, paying this much money shows how committed you are to excellence.
If properly maintained, Audis of all varieties maintain their mileage well. As a result, it’s not a bad idea to think about a TT with up to 100k on the clock. If you set up about 3,000, you may purchase an early 225bhp car with between 75 and 100k miles on the odometer. This strikes our opinion as the ideal balance between a minter and a car you won’t be afraid to drive.
Why should I buy one?
It is a design icon, which simply means that it is a significant automobile. The TT will continue to be the subject of books for many years to come, will be studied in design schools by future generations of automotive designers, and will always have a devoted and ardent fan base. It’s a significant vehicle in automotive history.
But even more than that, owning one is a beautiful experience. It’s incredibly enjoyable to drive, comfy, safe, and somewhat functional (for a sports car, you’re not moving a wardrobe with it). The TT is indeed one of those exceptional vehicles that makes you fall in love with driving all over again. Even in 180bhp form, it has plenty of power and can almost telepathically perceive the road’s undulations. It is sharp and straight. It’s just a joyful, enjoyable car.
It also has a classic design. one that always appears contemporary and fresh. This makes it challenging for the uninformed observer to appreciate it. Nobody would question your income, even if it were $100,000 a year, if you parked a 2,500 TT in the parking lot. It’s not just an old car; its design defies time. It almost like a sculpture on wheels. Not many automobiles can make that claim.
How long until I see a return?
Due in large part to the fact that Audi produced a large number of them, the TT is currently at the very bottom of the depreciation curve, and it will be some time before things start to increase. But that’s okay since you purchase a TT because you want one, not because you want to invest in one. What you put into it will come back to you. Purchase a 750 example, and you might make that investment back. Spend a few thousand dollars, maintain the TT in the manner to which it has grown accustomed, and you won’t lose any moneyyou might even turn a tiny profit.
But as we’ve said, the TT isn’t a vehicle to buy for investment purposes. Certainly not financially speaking. Instead, the TT’s time has come because original, spotless, well-maintained specimens are still available for a reasonable price. These vehicles will become more difficult to locate over time. Get one now before it’s too late.
Do Audi TT mk1s warrant an increase?
The first-generation TT still looks modern 20 years after it initially went on sale, which is a credit to Audi’s ageless design. The 3.2-liter V6 engine, despite the limited-run Quattro Sport model, threatens to become the most sought-after of the many available in the classifieds.
With adequate performance, Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel drive, and surprising practicality for a sports car, the TT was at its most powerful when a V6 was under the hood.
Since prices have been constant for a while, specimens kept in good condition are probably going to start appreciating in value. The greatest versions can cost up to 16,000, with prices starting at 3,000.
The Audi TT MK1: Is it dependable?
Overall, though, the TT has more dependability issues than you might anticipate for an Audi, so seek for a well-maintained vehicle with a complete service history, especially if it’s an older vehicle with a higher mileage.
Is the Audi TT uncommon?
The first-generation Audi TT, which was sold from 2000 and 2006, was widely recognized as one of the most important and elegant car designs of its time.
Is buying a vintage Audi TT worthwhile?
Despite its performance, the TT is smooth at low speeds and simple to drive. The interior is made entirely of high-quality materials and has a sturdy, long-lasting feel. The boot is a reasonable size for a coupe, but the back seats are only suited for the tiniest children. It now offers good value for the money.
Are ancient Audi TTs trustworthy?
The TT is incredibly dependable when compared to other secondhand Audis, especially the Mk 2 and later variants. The 2008 model, according to CarComplaints, can experience DSG problems, which Autocar claims are probably caused by a control unit failure. But it seems that this is only an issue with the first Mk 2 versions, as it was fixed by the 2009 model year. However, users of the VW Vortex forum advise against driving the vehicle hard before letting the DSG transmission warm up. The magnetic dampers can also lose their effectiveness with time, and replacement costs can be high.
While the 2.0-liter engine was available in the Mk 2 Audi TT throughout its manufacture, it wasn’t the same 2.0-liter. According to fans of the VW Vortex community, the car’s EA113 engine was belt-driven prior to 2011. And the non-RS versions switched to the chain-driven EA888, although the Mk 2 TT-S kept using it. Although timing chains last longer than belts, pre-2012 TTs came with chain tensioners that were prematurely worn out, according to eEuroParts. If that doesn’t work, you could need a new engine. The component was redesigned for 2013 after a recall was issued.
Additionally, users of the PistonHeads forum claim that the EA888 is known for using too much oil in other recent used Audis. However, according to users of the TT Forum, the version in the TT does not seem to have this problem. Nevertheless, according to Bar-Tek Tuning, issues with weak valve springs and carbon buildup can still arise. Additionally, according to PistonHeads, coil pack failure is a recognized problem with Mk 2 Audi TTs.
There don’t seem to be any substantial reliability issues with a pre-owned Mk 3 Audi TT. Its dependability is rated as “above average” by Consumer Reports, while CarComplaints has little to nil owner complaints.
Which Audi will go down in history?
One of the reasons the Audi A2 will go down in history is that it was frequently years ahead of its time. Although it was introduced in 2000, it would have been preferable if it had been introduced in the 2010s due to its aerodynamic attractiveness and high level of economy. Additionally, it is an environmentally friendly vehicle, which increases its appeal to individuals who are concerned with their carbon footprint.
Which Audi TT is the best to purchase?
As the least expensive option that still comes with a ton of equipment, the Audi TT 40 TFSI Sport is our pick as the greatest value option because it combines the entry-level trim with the ’40’ engine, a 2.0-liter petrol with over 200hp, making it powerful enough for almost everyone.
If you drive a lot of miles on the highway, opt for a 2.0 TDI Ultra diesel vehicle because it can get more than 60 mpg in fuel efficiency and is even rather quick (0-62mph takes just over seven seconds). Although it doesn’t have the smoothest engine, it’s still worth considering for drivers who desire a stylish, elegant vehicle with extremely low gasoline expenditures.
The sporty TT 45 TFSI S line isn’t as quick or potent as the high-performance TTS, but it’s not as far off and is still enjoyable to drive. This variant is a decent value performance-oriented option because there are no TT models marketed toward sports car enthusiasts.
Which Audi TT year is the most dependable?
Although we adore the style of the first-generation TTs, none of them qualify as a “just because they look beautiful, greatest year. The truth is that TTs from 2000 to 2006 were difficult and expensive to fix, so unless you can find one that has been rigorously maintained with records of service, pass.
Regardless, if you’re stuck with this generation, private party prices range from roughly $1,100 to $7,200 depending on the year, mileage, and condition.
Some of the best TT years can be found in the second generation (20072015). With far fewer recalls than the prior-generation TT, the new 2.0-liter turbo engine is one of several new powertrain options, and there is also plenty of luxury.
In actuality, there were only three recalls in total for the generation, the most significant of which involved a defective gearbox and only impacted 16,000 units.
We advise the 2014 and 2015 models, whose base models, according to KBB, are selling in “between $18,000 and $23,400 in very good condition. You’ll be able to concentrate entirely on appreciating your new purchase rather than waiting in a service center because these two years also had a combined zero recalls.
The third generation (from 2016 to the present) is unquestionably the most opulent and powerful, but it also comes with the highest price tag.
For instance, the remarkable Virtual Cockpit from Audi came standard on the 2016 TT, although it cost an additional $2,600 on other vehicles in the automaker’s portfolio. The 2016 TT costs much more than the 2015 model due to this and other changes, ranging from $25,600 to $28,500 in total “great condition. (Plus, in line with our “The 2016 Audi TT was the subject of a several significant recalls (see Worst Year section.) Audi offers a bumper-to-bumper guarantee that lasts for four years and 50,000 miles, therefore we recommend any TT from 2018 to 2020 as the best years of the third generation.