Electric Cars

Embracing Elegance: A Look Back at the 1980 Audi 4000 Automatic

The Audi 4000's Unique Position in the Automotive Landscape of 1980

In the bustling automotive market of 1980, the Audi 4000 found itself in a challenging, yet distinct, niche. It wasn't as visually striking as its predecessor, nor did it possess the opulent features of its larger sibling, the 5000. While some competitors offered superior acceleration (like Volvos) or better fuel economy (like American X-cars and various Japanese sedans), the 4000 attracted a discerning clientele. These buyers valued German engineering, a palpable sense of quality, and an engine compartment that showcased meticulous design with aluminum and stainless steel components.

The Athletic Appeal and Economic Value of the Audi 4000

The Audi 4000's design language, characterized by its clean and understated lines, resonated with the growing emphasis on physical fitness in America during that era. Its sleek fenders made contemporary BMW 320is and Mercedes-Benz 280Es appear almost overly sculpted in comparison. This minimalist aesthetic, combined with its German heritage and mechanical sophistication, made the 4000 a perceived value, especially with a starting price under $10,000.

Elevated Performance: The Introduction of the 2.1-Liter Engine and Automatic Transmission

Audi's ambition for the 4000 extended beyond its initial price point. To push it into the five-figure realm, the manufacturer introduced a more powerful 2.1-liter five-cylinder engine, borrowed from the 5000 model. This upgrade was accompanied by the integration of an automatic transmission and power steering, alongside an expanded list of optional features. These enhancements allowed the 4000 to be configured as a sport sedan exceeding $13,000, despite its more modest starting price. Notably, the larger engine and automatic transmission were initially offered without a distinctive model designation, with a five-speed manual option slated for the 1981 model year.

Refined Driving Dynamics: Engine Characteristics and Acceleration Improvements

The new powertrain significantly elevated the 4000's character. While the five-cylinder engine produced a distinct drone at idle, it transformed into a powerful roar upon acceleration. The 100 horsepower, delivered through ram-tuned fuel injection, propelled the car with enthusiasm. The automatic transmission seamlessly shifted through gears, precisely at the 5100-rpm power peak, resulting in noticeably improved acceleration. The 0-to-60 mph time decreased by over a second, and the quarter-mile sprint was completed half a second quicker than with the conventional four-cylinder models. This newfound vitality, coupled with a responsive torque converter, allowed the 4000 automatic to confidently outmaneuver many of its four-cylinder rivals in urban environments. Remarkably, the fuel economy penalty for these performance gains was minimal, dropping by only 2 mpg from the four-cylinder's 22 mpg to 20 mpg.

Suspension System: Ride Quality and Handling Nuances

Although the suspension was reportedly retuned to accommodate the heavier engine, the difference in ride quality was not immediately apparent. The 60-series Firestone tires, while offering decent grip at 0.73 g on the skidpad, produced a drum-like sound over bumps. However, they effectively absorbed pothole impacts, preventing harsh jolts from reaching the cabin. The shock absorbers contributed to a smooth ride, yet they were deemed too soft for high-speed travel on uneven roads. This led to an undesirable effect where the car's front end would oscillate, causing a lateral movement that drivers experienced as a "corkscrew" sensation. This phenomenon, known as "bump steer" or "ride steer," indicated a need for improved damping and a more precise geometric alignment of the front suspension, particularly given the car's front-heavy nature.

Future Enhancements: Addressing Chassis Refinements

The review concluded by highlighting the necessity for Audi to address these suspension characteristics. The hope was that future iterations, particularly the anticipated five-speed, five-cylinder 4000, would feature a more refined chassis to match the car's improved engine performance. For consumers seeking the latest in German automotive style, the automatic version served as a suitable option, though those awaiting the five-speed manual would benefit from a more perfected driving platform.

Hyundai's Ioniq 5 has rapidly established itself as a leading electric vehicle, capturing significant consumer interest since its 2022 introduction. For its 2026 model year, the Ioniq 5 receives a mid-cycle refresh, bringing a host of enhancements including a new charging cable for Level 1 and Level 2, expanded color options like Sage Silver Matte, and notable price reductions. This refreshed lineup, comprising five distinct trims, aims to offer diverse options to a broad range of buyers. Understanding the nuances of each trim, particularly in terms of features, comfort, and safety, is crucial for making an informed purchasing decision.

The base models, including the SE Standard Range and SE trims, offer fundamental performance and safety features but lack many of the creature comforts found in higher-tier versions. The SE Standard Range, powered by a 63 kWh battery and a 125 kW electric motor, delivers 168 horsepower and a 245-mile range. In contrast, the SE trim, with an 84 kWh battery, offers increased power and range, with 320 horsepower and a 290-mile range in its AWD configuration. Both trims come equipped with essential safety systems like blind-spot collision warning and lane-keeping assist, ensuring a secure driving experience despite their entry-level status. However, these variants compromise on interior luxuries such as ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, and wireless smartphone charging, focusing primarily on performance and core functionalities.

Moving up, the SEL trim emerges as the most judicious choice for the majority of purchasers. It mirrors the SE's performance specifications but introduces significant interior and safety upgrades, including synthetic leather upholstery, an eight-way power-adjustable passenger seat, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, rear A/C vents, and wireless smartphone charging. Its enhanced safety suite features advanced forward collision-avoidance assist with junction crossing and evasive steering assist, providing a superior blend of comfort, convenience, and protection. For those seeking off-road capabilities, the XRT trim, exclusively available in AWD, features a raised suspension, all-terrain tires, and specialized terrain modes, along with premium audio and advanced monitoring systems. At the pinnacle, the Limited trim offers a luxurious experience with advanced interior amenities, including ventilated and heated seats, a heated steering wheel, a panoramic glass roof, and a heads-up display, albeit at a higher price point.

Ultimately, the choice of a Hyundai Ioniq 5 trim depends on individual priorities and budget. While the Limited trim justifies its higher cost with an array of premium features, the SEL variant represents the most intelligent investment for most consumers. Its combination of a lower starting price, flexibility in drivetrain options, upscale interior, comprehensive safety features, and competitive performance makes it a standout. Test driving the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 SEL is highly recommended to fully appreciate its balanced offering and make a confident decision, embracing the future of electric mobility with a vehicle that prioritizes both practicality and innovation.