Revenge of the Chinese Audis

[Mike Arman <armanmik@n-jcenter.com>]

Today in the mail I received (Ta Daaa!) a parts catalog from China covering
the Chinese manufactured-under-license type 44 - this is the 1986 through
1991 model/body style.

Engines are 4 cyl 1.8 liter carburetted, 4 cyl 2.0, same, and 2.2 liter 5
cyl, fuel injected. No turbos, no mag wheels, manual windows, zero MPH
bumpers, 4 bolt wheels.

I'm going to make up a list of parts to quote - rack, bomb, door handles,
brake discs, fuel pump, cyl head complete, etc. and ask prices. It appears
that these people will also sell a whole, brand new body shell for either
the 4 door or the avant!

Unfortunately, many of the bits that we use all the time are not on these
cars - they have steel wheels, manual windows, and the "good old" GM air
conditioners. Many of the other parts are available here, either reasonably
or used, so it doesn't make sense to order, for instance, an alternator.

Stay tuned, but don't hold your breath - these guys don't answer fast, and
nothing may come of it. (But the whole, brand new body shell is
fascinating!) This is very definitely in the preliminary-checking-it-out
phase, so don't try to send me money!!!

Best Regards,

Mike Arman