1984 US Ur-Quattro - Should I buy?

[Stephen Attwood <sattwood@netcom.com>]

I just happened to be reading the bulletin board at the gym and noticed 
someone was selling their '84 Audi Turbo Coupe.  Called the guy, and 
found out it is indeed one of the 65 1984 US spec Ur-Quattros.  
Supposedly in great condition with 117k miles.  The only modification 
from what he told me was it had the European bumpers???  I'm going to 
look at the car Thursday.

I tried doing a little research at the local library, (read Barnes and 
Nobles) read your FAQ and just subscribed to this list to get an idea of 
specs, price, etc.  However, I still have a few questions.

(FYI, I've never owned an Audi and this is my first experience with any 
Audi enthusiasts so please be gentle.  I do, however, have a Radio Shack 
RC Audo Quattro and I did follow John Buffim around Tacoma one night 
during an FIA rally - '86 I think)

Price - Looks like he wants about $11k.  Seems kind of high when 
compared to the blue book value.  I believe the blue book retail price 
for one in excellent condition is $8,400.  What would you pay?

Performance - The hp/torque numbers I remembered for this car were 
apparently for the Euro version.  Needless to say I was disappointed to 
find 160bhp/170lb-ft for the US version.  Why the paltry US numbers for 
what seems like the same size engine, compression ratio, and turbo.  I'm 
guessing the US version is detuned for emissions and 87 octane gas.  Is 
this right?  What would I have to do to get Euro type performance:  Boost 
controller, chip, timing, etc?

Maintenance - The ugly 'M' word.  How bad is it to find parts for this 
car?  With very few ever sold in the US I've got to think it's next to 
impossible not to mention the cost if I ever did find the part.  I know 
Audi has a poor reputation when it comes to the price of their parts and 
service, but is it really that bad, or worse considering the car is an 
'84 Ur-Quattro?

Rust - Simple question.  Are there any problems and is the car galvanized?

Common problems - There seem to be common problems with hot starting and 
the differential.  Is there anything else I should be aware of?

And since there is probably someone more intested in this car than me 
please e-mail me and I'll be glad to send you the seller's name and phone 
number (after I've gotten his permission, of course).

Thanks,

Steve
'91 Nissan Sentra SE-R
'84 Quattro ???
-- 
  Stephen A. Attwood
  sattwood@netcom.com