Or you could try a Ford Sierra RS Cosworth 4×4 (saloon) or an Escort RS Cosworth (hatch); there are some fabulous examples around, but values have soared.
What to look for
Rust in peace
From 1985 some panels were galvanised and from 1987 the boot lid was made from plastic; earlier ones were steel. Major rot is unusual, but check the sills, and the wing seams on post-1988 cars.
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Engine room
Of its three engines, the WR is the most troublesome and the RR is the most reliable (and the most costly to buy parts for). Worn turbos and valve seals, plus cracked exhaust manifolds are common problems.
Transmission
Despite the complexity of the transmission, it’s pretty much bullet-proof. The synchromesh can wear out (gearbox rebuilds are expensive), but clutches last well if not abused. Sachs items are the best.
Other problems
Alloy wheels buckle, suspension bushes perish and interior trim wears, but retrims are possible. The electrics are much more complex on Quattros from 1983, so check everything works.
Interior
Excellent practicality was always a core part of the Quattro proposition. The front seats are supportive, there’s room in the back for two adults, and the build quality is good, even if some electrics may be part-time. Boot capacity is good at 330 litres, but the space-saver spare wheel (if fitted) eats into this.
Modifications
The Quattro is one of those cars that’s best left as it came out of the factory, because it was so essentially right in the first place.
However, the supply chain for original parts is either particularly poor or costly – quite often both. The downside of this is that owners skip original parts and indulge their desires to have something even more capable, with upgraded brakes, suspension systems or exhausts.
Such modifications can be fine, but they’re often unnecessary, so before buying a car that’s had significant changes made, make sure the car hasn’t been a track day hack or constantly abused.
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