Full Breakdown
Audacious Automotive Unveils the IV – A High-Revving Audi Quattro Restomod
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In this breakdown
01
Core Event
British boutique builder Audacious Automotive announced the Audacious IV, a limited-run restomod of the 1980s Audi Quattro. The car keeps the boxy silhouette but swaps the original five-cylinder for a 4.2-litre V8 revving to 10,000 rpm. Production is capped at 50 units, with deliveries slated for late next year (or late 2027 per a later schedule). Each build requires roughly three years from commission to delivery.
02
Background & Context
The original Quattro pioneered all-wheel-drive in rally and road cars and became a design icon. Audacious used the B7-generation Audi RS4 (2006-2008) as the mechanical base for its chassis rigidity, suspension, and six-speed manual gearbox, aiming for an analogue driving experience.
Visual evidence
Images from the story
03
Official Statements & Responses
Founder Mac Zaglewski said the RS4 platform was chosen over the RS3 because its Torsen AWD provides a rear-biased feel, unlike the RS3’s front-biased Haldex system. Customers can start with an original Quattro shell or a bespoke carbon-fibre body, the latter making up roughly 80 % of the run.
04
Data & Statistics
- Engine: 4.2-litre V8, four configurations.
- Power: reported figures range from 600 bhp to 750 bhp.
- Rev limit: 10,000 rpm (naturally aspirated and supercharged versions).
- Drivetrain: Torsen AWD with six-speed manual.
- Weight: carbon-fibre version ~1,200 kg (?2,645 lb).
- Performance claims: 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds, top speed 200 mph.
- Production: 50 examples; 40 carbon-fibre, 10 metal.
- Price: starting at £350,000 (? $470,000) before VAT.
05
Why It Matters / Impact
The IV reflects a niche where boutique firms revive historic models with modern performance while retaining heritage aesthetics. By pairing a high-revving V8 with the Quattro’s silhouette, Audacious targets affluent collectors who value nostalgia and driver engagement. The limited run and three-year build timeline reinforce exclusivity.
06
Timeline
- Announcement: public reveal (date unspecified).
- Production planning: 50-unit run, 40 carbon-fibre bodies.
- Build duration: ~three years from commission to delivery.
- Delivery window: first cars expected late next year; a later schedule cites late 2027.
07
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on quantitative details:
- Power output: 600 bhp, 750 bhp, 592 hp, and 740 hp reported.
- Weight: both ~1,200 kg and 2,645 lb cited.
- Delivery timing: “late next year” vs. “late 2027.”
No independent performance testing has been published, leaving acceleration and top-speed claims unverified.
08
What’s Next
Audacious indicated a third powertrain option—a 10,000 rpm V8 without a supercharger—is under refinement. Prospective buyers must await the three-year build period; no additional model variants have been announced.