Surely one of the most idiosyncratic automobiles to burst onto the automotive scene since, say, the cooling of the earth is the Audi TT. Shaped something like a snap beetle with wheels, it’s immediately disliked by some. If that’s you, walk away and don’t look back. On the other hand, if you recognize the Auto Union heritage and styling or if you can appreciate that it’s packed with technology, then read on, because the Audi TT has something for you.
Introduced in 1999 for the 2000 model year as a 180-bhp coupe, the TT for 2001 is joined by an early-release 225-bhp “S” model available in either coupe or roadster configuration. The ragtop TT is also offered with only a six-speed manual; a five-speed manual is standard with the 180-bhp engine. There is no automatic, so don’t ask.
Contemporary review and driving impressions of the 2001 Audi TT originally published in the Road & Track 2001 Car Buyer’s Guide; republished by the author.
The added power comes from internal modifications and higher turbo boost for the 1.8-liter, 20-valve four mounted transversely up front. This joined by 17-in. wheels replacing the 16-inchers of the lesser TT and larger, vented rear brakes.
The TT Roadster betters the coupe by more than its folding top, which comes with a heated glass rear window whether with manual or optional power operation. Reinforced sill panels and a transverse aluminum bulkhead stiffen the body, the latter also an attachment for the two fixed roll bars, and the windshield frame is reinforced for rollover protection. The roadster also has a power glass rear windscreen and the option of amber-red leather upholstery with baseball stitching. Pulse radar provides that protection to the interior even when the top is lowered.
Every TT has seat-mounted side airbags for the front seats, plus an 80-watt audio system, power windows and mirrors, and remote locking. Other safety equipment includes automatic fuel pump shut off and door unlocking when the airbags deploy. Standard automatic climate control includes a dust and pollen filter, while a hands-free phone is optional on the coupe and roadster. Last year’s optional trip computer is now standard and includes an outside-temperature display. The option list still includes an audio upgrade and xenon headlamps.
The Audi TT isn’t easy to get into, and not everyone will find its looks appealing. Those who can’t handle a stick shift won’t find it easy to drive. Too bad. The select few will e stirring the dust on some neglected, winding side road. By their grins shall ye know them.
Addendum: The Audi TT had an impressively long lifespan largely unchanged, although the rounded profile morhped into a design with less curved if not straight lines. If you’ve seen a TT, you know the TT. The first TT was built in 1998 and the model stayed in production until 2023. Some workers had a 25 year career building Ingolstadt’s sport car when the last TT rolled down the production line in the Győr factory in Hungary where all TT’s were made.
