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These are the first images of a new Audi Quattro concept set to debut next month at the 2013 Frankfurt Auto Show. In 2010, Audi rolled out a similar modern Quattro concept to mark 30 years since the launch of its original Quattro, and while that previous concept was slated for production a new Quattro sports car is yet to materialise.
The reveal of a new Quattro concept this year shows that Audi is still interested in launching a high-performance sports car honouring the original Quattro. This time, however, we’re expecting Audi to honour the later Sport Quattro. Launched in 1984, the Sport Quattro was based on the original Quattro but came with a shortened wheelbase and was developed primarily for Group B rallying. A run of 200 road-going versions (pictured below) were built for homologation purposes and sold to the public.
Audi doesn’t compete in rallying anymore but it looks like influences from its successful R18 e-tron quattro Le Mans prototype may feature in the new Quattro concept. Running down the centre will be a tunnel flanked by a carbon fibre frame, perhaps mimicking the carbon fibre monocoque of the R18. The new Quattro concept will be based on the chassis of the A5 so there won’t be a complete carbon fibre monocoque structure, but we could see some of the lightweight stuff used in the construction to help shed the pounds while also improving stiffness.
The sketches above also reveal an aggressive exterior inspired by the original Quattro line of cars while the interior features a 2+2 seating arrangement and high-tech controls. Unlike the 2010 Quattro concept, which was based on a shortened version of the A5 chassis, the new concept is likely to keep the full length in order to maximize space for the four occupants.
As previously reported, the new Quattro concept is expected to benefit from a 450kW version of Audi’s twin-turbocharged 4.0 litre V8 engine. Though it’s possible Audi might use its e-tron quattro all-wheel-drive system as featured in the R18 race car, which uses electric motors in addition to an internal combustion engine in a through-the-road hybrid setup, we’re more likely to see the engine paired with a conventional mechanical all-wheel-drive system. Such a car would be matched in performance by only the range-topping R8 V10 Plus in Audi’s lineup. Initial performance estimates are a 0-100km/h time in less than 4.0 seconds and a top speed of close to 300km/h.
If built, production would likely take place at the special Neckarsulm plant in Germany where Audi’s RS models and its R8 are built. Production would also be limited, meaning pricing may exceed even the AU$408,200 of the R8 V10 Plus.
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