December's EC: Audi's galore!

[Osman Parvez <oparvez1@nycap.rr.com>]

Grabbing my mail on the way in the door this evening and what do I
discover? Yep..the new EC.

Cover Pic (and story); Audi TT Coupe Quattro

I would classify the article as a glowing review. The writer, Les
Bidrawn, is overly jubilant about the TT. This article goes into further
depth than the other two I've read thus far.

He describes the new Quattro system:

"The TT ushers in a new generation of Quattro all-wheel drive. The
system is now centered on a electro-hydraulically controlled torque
distribution system. A multi-plate clutch between the propeller shaft
and the rear axle distributes engine power in response to wheel
rotational speed, engine speed, and engine torque. When the computer
senses slip in, say, the front wheels, after mere 25cm of wheel
rotation, torque is distributed to the rear."

The article claims that the new Q tranny will be specific to the TT,
since it required something lighter and more compact. Next it turns to
motors:
He notes both the 180hp and 225hp european choices being offered.
Most importantly, he quotes Marc Trahan, AOA's product planner, "The
U.S. Market will see the more powerful version that Europe currently
has. We will bring it stateside in early 2000 with all the hp of the
Euro-spec motors, there will be no difference in output, but it will
meet ULEZ standards".  Mark buddy, you better not be lying. I have your
name now..
:)

I won't spoil the rest of the article..


There is also article on this year's Mt. Washington event, focusing on
Frank Sprongl's win in the S2. The article is called "Audi Rules".

As well as a long detailed article called "Rally Royalty" focusing on
the Quattro's group B legacy.This article contains a segment on Frank's
S2!!

I can tell that I will have difficulty putting this issue down.

Later.

-Osman Parvez
89 200q
Albany, NY.