Re: 88 80

[Tom Nas <tnas@euronet.nl>]

Mike Arman <armanmik@n-jcenter.com> wrote:

>Going to look at a 1988 model 80, automatic tranny, 92,000 miles - dear
>bride is tired of her M*zda 323 - and it is getting tired, too.

>Being *WELL* versed in the various "weaknesses and quirks" of the type 44,
>I'd appreciate a few comments from anyone who can tell me what to look for
>or avoid in the 80, because I don't know much about that one.

Check well for any signs of rust- the type 89s were galvanized and any
rust means (bad) repairs.

Drive it and check for rattles and whistles from the door rubbers- these
cars were exceptionally well-built and rattles mean that it's 90% sure
something has been badly repaired.

Dunno about auto-boxes, but the 2.0-litre I4 is all but indestructible.
Check usual lifter stuff, CV joints, wheel bearings etc. Also check for
water leaks in the trunk (not serious, usually taillight seals but a
nice bargaining point). Electrically, it's just another Audi. 

Remember, the trunks on these cars are not a lot larger than the glove compartments!

Good luck. Find a good one, and it'll be a joy to drive as well as
extremely reliable.

HTH,

Tom
1987 90q
1988 80 FWD dearly departed