Audi broke the mold when its concept TT car was presented at automobile around the world during the mid1990s. Named for the distinguished yearly “Tourist Trophy” race held on the Isle of Man, the TT is predicated on the same platform which powers the Volkswagen Golf and the Skoda Octavia. Using anodized aluminum and a “bumper free” exterior, the TT coupe wasn’t like any car of its time when the first production model was released in 1998. Today, the TT continues to garner awards and win praises from Audi fans. If you like the current model, just wait one year and you’ll witness the release of a TT that goes well outside the pale.
When chatting about the TT, there are really 2 models involved: one being a coupe, the other a roadster. Immediately after the coupe’s introduction in 1998, the roadster version was released the following summer. Both models were originally powered by a twenty valve inline 1.8L four cylinder engine, however in subsequent years each model received a more powerful version of that engine while a 3.2L V6 was introduced as an option during 2003. The TT is powered by its front wheels, but Quattro all wheel drive is available as well.
Audi’s success with the TT has helped it to cautiously develop its second generation model. Virtually a full decade after the original model made its debut the chase up TT is being readied and will go into production in 2007. The new TT will incorporate the following attributes:
Longer and Wider: Slight changes in its width and length will be merged into the new model. Expect more cabin room for added interior comfort.
Aluminum and Steel: The new TT will be made of aluminum in the front and steel in the rear to persuade a better weight balance.
More Power : The 1.8L I4 engine will be replaced with a 2.0L I4 engine. The 3.2L V6 will continue to be offered, manufacturing 250 h.p… A 6 speed manual transmission will be standard equipment.
More Models: The coupe and dragster will be introduced back to back with a 3rd model, possibly a van version, also being considered for production.
Principal competitors for the Audi TT have been the BMW Z4 and the Mercedes SLK. The TT’s styling inspiration has found its way onto several other models including the Saturn Sky, Mazda Miata, Nissan 350Z, and the Pontiac Solstice. In all, the Audi TT has reinvigorated the dragster market and it appears that the impending TT will expand on that theme even further. This is great news for fans who wish to have a unique and well engineered 2+2 auto as an element of their driving stable.
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