Basic Information Identification Make: Audi Model: 100 Quattro Year: 1990 Model Code: Type 44 Codes Engine Code Range: WC, WH, WT Transmission Code Range: NC, NF, NG Introduction Market Position...
The 1990 Audi 100 Quattro (Type 44, C3 generation) was positioned as a premium, front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive sedan and wagon, competing in the executive car segment against rivals like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Key competitors included BMW 5 Series (E34), Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124), Volvo 240/740, and select American luxury sedans.
Key Features
Aerodynamics:
Sleek, aerodynamic design optimized for fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise, a hallmark of Audi's design in this era.
Quattro AWD:
The highly regarded Quattro all-wheel-drive system provided exceptional traction and stability, a significant selling point.
Build Quality:
Known for solid build quality and robust construction.
Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive owner's information for the 1990 Audi 100 Quattro.
Geographic Coverage:
Primarily North American market, but general operating principles apply globally.
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 300-350 pages (typical for this era).
Interpretation of warning lights, basic steps for minor issues (e.g., jump starting).
Technical Depth
Depth:
Designed for the owner, focusing on safe operation, routine checks, and understanding vehicle features. Does not cover in-depth mechanical repairs or diagnostics typically found in a service manual.
Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
N/A (Physical Product)
Print Quality
Print Quality:
Original factory print quality.
Binding Type
Binding:
Staple-bound or perfect bound, typical for owner's manuals of the era.
Paper Type
Paper Type:
Standard matte paper stock.
Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-5 Cylinder
Engine Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2309 cc)
Engine Code Example:
NG (130 PS version)
Performance
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 130-137 PS (96-101 kW) depending on specific market and engine variant.
Torque Range:
Approximately 180-190 Nm (133-140 lb-ft) depending on specific market and engine variant.
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch CIS-Jetronic (Continuous Injection System) or later KE-Jetronic fuel injection.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Premium Unleaded recommended).
Cooling System
Cooling Medium:
Ethylene glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 4HP22)
Features
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90).
Viscous coupling center differential with Torsen center differential (later models/specific variants may differ slightly, but generally viscous coupling for Type 44 Quattro).
Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approximately 4760 mm (187.4 in)
Width:
Approximately 1780 mm (70.1 in)
Height:
Approximately 1420 mm (55.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2680 mm (105.5 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1350-1450 kg (2976-3197 lbs) depending on body style and transmission.
Cargo
Trunk Capacity:
Approximate for sedan: 510 liters (18 cu ft); Avant (wagon) significantly more with seats folded.
Safety Features
Ratings
Cdot Safety Rating:
While NHTSA/IIHS ratings from this era are less standardized and comparable, the vehicle featured a robust safety cage and crumple zones for its time.
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard on Quattro models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver airbag was optional, not standard on all models.
Factory-installed cassette player with AM/FM radio. Optional premium sound systems available.
Display Technology:
Analog gauges for tachometer, speedometer, fuel, and temperature. Warning lights for system status.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on many Quattro models, electronic cruise control.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, front fog lights often integrated into bumper. Automatic headlight shut-off timer.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
None by modern standards; vehicle was analog-based.
Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: Typically every 40,000-60,000 miles (64,000-96,000 km) or 3-4 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG or SH rated, SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40 synthetic or synthetic blend recommended for optimal performance and protection.
Coolant Spec:
G11 coolant (blue/green) or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Fluid Capacities
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5-5.0 liters (4.8-5.3 quarts) with filter.
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 7.5-8.0 liters (7.9-8.5 quarts).
Known Issues
Engine:
CIS fuel injection can be finicky to diagnose; oil leaks from valve cover and oil cooler seals; timing belt tensioner leaks; potential for head gasket issues on high-mileage engines.
Electrical:
Degradation of wiring insulation (especially around engine bay components); faulty door lock actuators; instrument cluster issues (e.g., tachometer, fuel gauge).
Chassis And Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings; shock absorber wear; rear trailing arm bushings (RTABs) prone to degradation; exhaust system corrosion.
Climate Control:
HVAC blower motor failure; heater core leaks; AC system refrigerant leaks (R12 in original systems).
Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Audi Brand:
Audi, a German manufacturer with a long history dating back to the early 20th century, is known for its engineering prowess and innovative technologies, particularly its quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Model Evolution
C3 Generation:
The 1990 model is part of the third generation Audi 100 (Typ 44), produced from 1982 to 1991. It succeeded the C2 (Typ 43) and was replaced by the C4 (Audi A6).
Facelift:
The C3 generation received a significant facelift in 1988, introducing updated styling, improved aerodynamics, and revised interior features, making the 1990 model a representative of this updated series.
Production
Production Period:
The Audi 100 (C3) was produced globally from 1982 to 1991. The Quattro variants became increasingly popular throughout this period.
Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Awarded Features:
The Audi 100, particularly the Quattro variants, was frequently lauded for its sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and its contribution to safety and handling in adverse weather conditions.
Ratings
General Reception:
Received positive reviews for its comfort, refinement, and secure handling, especially the Quattro models.