By Classic Yorkshire correspondent Tony Lofthouse
The iconic Audi TT is set to end production this year after 25 years, with the carmaker deciding now is the time to go all electric.
To mark the signing off of the TT, the German car giants are rolling out a ‘special’ Final Edition model.
They add that the TT brand will live on in the form of an all-electric SUV in a couple of years, but for petrolheads it’s the end of an era.
The Audi TT stunned the car world as a concept model at the 1995 Frankfurt Motor Show. Three years later the car went into production with only marginal changes to the prototype.
There have been three generations of the TT following a design notable for its Bauhaus-inspired lines.
The car originally came as a coupe before a roadster version was introduced in 1999. A limited edition Audi TT Quattro Sport come along in 2005.
Under the bonnet, TT buyers had a choice of two turbocharged four cylinder 1.8 litre engines providing 180 or 225 bhp. A 2005 facelift saw the introduction of a Volkswagen 3.2 litre V6 engine giving 247 bhp.
Inside the TT, the cabin is typically robust with styling options to include extensive leather trim.
Sportier S and RS versions were added to the second generation of the car.
The TT proved an instant hit in the UK and the market has stayed strong.
“Few models have lasted the test of time as well as the TT,” says Audi UK Director, Andrew Doyle. “Our Final Edition range combines everything our customers love about this iconic model.”
For interested TT buyers, the time is now! The Mk 1 version is seeing the highest price appreciation and, in particular, the limited edition TT Quattro Sport, with only 800 units made for UK buyers.
At the moment you can pick up an early 1.8 coupe in good condition for as little as £3,000. For the rarer 3.2 V6 prices rise.
It’s fair to say the car was a real game-changer for Audi and with the end of the road in site demand is sure to spike.
When you consider the new TT Final Edition will start at £41,910 (for the coupe), savvy buyers might prefer to scour the second-hand market for a piece of real motoring history!