Re: NHTSA Crash Test Results for Audi 1985-1989 ?

[Andrew Duane USG/PE <duane@zk3.dec.com>]

Hairy green toads from Mars made Ti Kan say:

> Ken Bell writes:
> > What design changes were made to reduce the HIC for the driver in their
> > 1989 100?
> 
> Air bag, and the Procon-Ten system.
> 
> Note that although the name change from 5000 to 100/200 occurred
> in mid-1988, the body change didn't come about until model year
> 1990.  The post-1990 100 does have a better body structure, but
> the late 80s 5000/100/200 cars are very safe nevertheless.  The
> air bag equipped models scored very well in crash tests, getting
> some of the lowest injury numbers measured for its time.
> Also note that in 1988 Audi switched to a totally redesigned
> dashboard in the 5000/100/200 cars.  That may have some influence
> on the crash test results.

I have an '89 100Q, and concur about the body changes. My '89
is really indistinguishable from an '88 5000Q, except for the
numbers stuck on the trunk.

But, the '89 did *not* have an airbag. Just the procon-ten.
Which suits me just fine, thank you. I *never* leave the garage
without that belt on, and I trust it implicitly to save my life
in a serious accident.

The dashboard redesign also helps by giving the occupant more room
to decelerate.

Angela's '90 90Q20V has an airbag (and procon-ten?), but she wouldn't
listen to me that the airbag isn't really needed. Well, maybe for a
car that small it is.



> Ever since the 80s Audi has been in the forefront as far as
> structural safety is concerned.  No matter which Audi model you
> choose, you can be assured that you will be well protected,
> especially in the bigger Audis.

Amen. This even applies to VW's. My '85 Golf was in a 45 MPH
head-on with a 5000 pound plymouth station wagon. I walked away
without a scratch, Mr. Plymouth went to the hospital (and he was
wearing his seatbelts).


-- 

Andrew L. Duane (JOT-7)			duane@zk3.dec.com
Digital Equipment Corporation		(603)-881-1294
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Only my cat shares my opinions, and she uses fur as an impact absorber.