Audi TT Coupe (1999-2003

HISTORY
Audi transformed numb A3/Golf platform into agile, fast and responsive front drive sports machine that set new benchmarks. Affordable, desirable upshift for hard chargers of front drive Celicas and hot hatches. Ex-slushmobile drivers couldn't pick its high limits forcing Audi to offer retrofit suspension pack in 2000 including rear spoiler that better telegraphs the limits but dulled response hence not taken up by all owners. Quattro adds grunt, weight and grip but chuckable front-drive TT levels it on fun.

PRICES
For the front-drive TT, $50,000 is the median point, plus or minus, depending on condition and age with values peaking just over $60,000; exactly where TT Quattro prices start. Later roadsters pull $7-10,000 more over equivalent coupe.

POTENTIAL PROBLEMS
Transverse driveline leaves minimal overhang front and rear like no other Audi for tight, arresting styling that doesn't look six years old! Imitators fail again and again. Striking interior and exterior design details can mesmerise a new owner for a year.

ENGINE
Turbo intercooled DOHC five-valve engine is efficient, reliable and frugal but early plastic turbo pressure valving needed routine replacement and should be fixed by now. Long service intervals and owners who never lift the bonnet will generate empty sumps on most Audis so listen for crankshaft rumble and check for thick oil hiding imminent failure. Look for low mileage examples serviced on time intervals, not kilometres, to be sure.

TRANSMISSION
Baulky five-speed transmissions and clutches were replaced under warranty as early as 15,000 km, so check carefully. Tiptronic auto from '03 only. Quattro has six-speed manual and advanced 4Motion all-wheel drive.

CABIN
Long wheelbase delivers ski-length luggage bay behind driver allowing TT to double as fun sports car and long distance getaway. Parcel shelf was ongoing warranty item.

WHEELS/TYRES
Optional 17-inch alloys dictate Z-rated tyres that cost $500 each but last around 45,000km. Check rims and unidirectional tyres carefully. Jacks were subject to recall because of labelling/Standards issues but not all owners could be bothered. Space saver spare not much use in remote areas if you can't buy a new tyre so throw in an old one for long trips.

WINDOWS
Self-sealing side glass requires factory help if broken. Leather trim can fade.

Y2K MODEL
Rear spoiler came with soggier 2000 suspension but corrupts pert butt and can do little at Aussie speeds so some owners declined. Later ESP stability program adds safety net; not essential if you can drive.