2000 Audi TT 225 Quattro Roadster

31 Bids
8:00 PM, 08 Nov 2021Vehicle sold
Sold for

£6,550

Background

Making its debut in 1998 to worldwide critical acclaim and praise for its cutting-edge, concept-esque looks, the first-generation (8N) Audi TT was available in either 2+2 coupé or two-seat roadster form, with either a 1.8-litre turbocharged engine or 3.2-litre VR6 lump, and the choice of automatic, manual or - in the case of the VR6 - VAG’s latest DSG transmission.

The ubiquitous 1.8-litre, turbocharged inline-four was available in 180 and 225bhp form, with the now-iconic Haldex four-wheel-drive ‘Quattro’ system being optional on the 180 and standard on the 225.

Specifically, the Roadster was launched in August 1999, again to widespread praise and acclaim, retaining the classic TT profile.

Highly regarded by the motoring press, the Audi TT received numerous accolades, including North American Car of The Year in 2000, and Car and Driver’s ‘Ten Best’ list in both 2000 and 2001.

Whilst never particularly rare (other than the Quattro Sport, but that’s an entirely different beast) good first-generation TTs are slowly becoming harder to find, and a well-specified, low-ownership and low-mileage example is arguably the choice for serious enthusiasts or ‘modern classic’ collectors.

Thankfully, that’s exactly what we have here…

  • 40650
  • 1781
  • Manual
  • Black
  • Grey
  • Right-hand drive

Vehicle location
Bonhams|Cars Online HQ, United Kingdom

Background

Making its debut in 1998 to worldwide critical acclaim and praise for its cutting-edge, concept-esque looks, the first-generation (8N) Audi TT was available in either 2+2 coupé or two-seat roadster form, with either a 1.8-litre turbocharged engine or 3.2-litre VR6 lump, and the choice of automatic, manual or - in the case of the VR6 - VAG’s latest DSG transmission.

The ubiquitous 1.8-litre, turbocharged inline-four was available in 180 and 225bhp form, with the now-iconic Haldex four-wheel-drive ‘Quattro’ system being optional on the 180 and standard on the 225.

Specifically, the Roadster was launched in August 1999, again to widespread praise and acclaim, retaining the classic TT profile.

Highly regarded by the motoring press, the Audi TT received numerous accolades, including North American Car of The Year in 2000, and Car and Driver’s ‘Ten Best’ list in both 2000 and 2001.

Whilst never particularly rare (other than the Quattro Sport, but that’s an entirely different beast) good first-generation TTs are slowly becoming harder to find, and a well-specified, low-ownership and low-mileage example is arguably the choice for serious enthusiasts or ‘modern classic’ collectors.

Thankfully, that’s exactly what we have here…

Video

Overview

Purchased new in 2000 by its one and only registered keeper, this pre-facelift 225 Quattro Roadster has been with the same owner since new, and has accumilated only a trifle over 40,000 miles during its lifetime.

Evidently cherished throughout its time with its original keeper, the car presents in incredible condition throughout, with our vendor stating it is “almost certainly the best quality TT available on sale today” on account of its history and condition.

There are also numerous tell-tale signs that this example was cherished, including the folding soft-top which shows no sign of any algae, clear drain holes and virtually no wear visible to the paintwork, suggesting the car was always kept garaged and fastidiously cared for.

Whilst in the care of our vendor - a retailer of modern classic cars, meaning that there is still only one keeper on the V5 - the underside has been steam-cleaned, wire-brushed where necessary and treated with Dinytrol rust-proofing, in order to keep this BAM TT in top-notch condition for years to come.

Having been left wanting for nothing by its previous owner, this genuinely collectable example of the iconic TT Roadster is now ready for its next owner to enjoy to its fullest extent.

Exterior

Resplendent in timeless black, the bodywork and paint on this 225Q TT is in outstanding condition and shows the level of care and attention the car has enjoyed throughout its lifetime.

There are no signs of any impacts or scuffs on any of the bodywork, and the panels are lovely and even throughout with no outwardly visible alignment issues.

Looking up close, there is the odd very small chip here-and-there on the lower bumper valence, but this is about the extent of any outwardly visible wear to the bodywork.

All four of the TT’s stylishly simple alloy wheels are in excellent condition with no kerb rash or damage, and are wrapped in matching, nearly-new Pirelli rubber with plenty of life left.

As we’ve already mentioned, the folding soft-top roof is in barely-believable condition for a vehicle of this age, and shows no sign of any mildew, discolouration or damage to the rear window, nor any waterproofing issues.

Interior

As with the exterior, the cabin of this timeless TT remains in impressive condition throughout, wearing only the faintest signs of use, even when taking into account its low ownership and mileage.

The seats show some light creasing to the bases and the gearstick wears a mild usage patina, but the wear is truly, truly minimal and the car, as our vendor puts it, really does have to be seen to be believed.

Those ‘in the know’ will know that two of the main issues that blight MK1 TT interiors are dashpod/instrument cluster problems and the degradation of the ‘soft touch’ material around the centre console. Thankfully, neither of those problems are present in this 225 Roadster, with the instrument binnacle working perfectly and the soft-touch still being remarkably intact and in excellent condition throughout the cabin.

Crucially, the folding roof mechanism is in full working order, and neither our vendor nor our photographer reported any issues with the roof, nor any other switches or electric systems.

Whilst in their care, the vendor has fitted a new battery.

Mechanical

The 225-horsepower 1.8-litre Turbocharged engine looks to be in fantastic aesthetic condition under the bonnet, though, admittedly, the fitment of the various engine covers and ‘dress up’ parts do make assessments tricky from a visual standpoint.

Nevertheless, there are no noted or reported leaks or fluid misting issues, nor any known mechanical problems with the engine, drivetrain or the chassis on this two-seat Roadster.

Out on the road, our photographer reported no problems or untoward noises, and the car had no problems starting, thanks to the fitment of a new battery whilst in the care of our vendor.

Looking underneath the car, the chassis is in outstanding condition on account of the work carried out whilst in our vendor’s care and the subsequent underbody treatment, and the recent MOT - dated 07 July 2021 - resulted in a clean pass on the first attempt.

History

As you’d likely expect from a car of this calibre, the history folder with this TT is suitably impressive, and the full glut of documentation is available to view at the end of the gallery below.

Highlight include two sets of keys, plus the original valet key, a clean HPI check sheet, the V5 showing 0 former keepers, and a stamped service record comprised of both OE Audi and other independent garages.

There is also a plethora of invoices from OE Audi dealerships showing various MOTs and work carried out, whilst the records also show several cam belt and water pump changes, the most recent of which was in 2017.

Summary

Stylish, timeless and a true icon of modern automotive design, it’s not hard to see just why these first-generation TTs retain an impressive following and affinity to this day, thanks also to their peppy engines, engaging gearboxes and excellent build quality.

This particular example is an extremely rare opportunity to obtain a genuine one-owner-from-new example, which has been left wanting for nothing and comes with a history folder that will satisfy any Audi enthusiast.

Offered without reserve and an estimate of £6,000 to £10,000, this must be one of the best examples to come to market in recent memory, and an opportunity not to be missed by any serious Audi enthusiast or collector.

Viewing is always encouraged, within government guidelines of course. The car is located at our Abingdon headquarters; we are open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm and to arrange an appointment please use the ‘Contact Seller’ button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’

About this auction

Seller

Private: iain


Viewings Welcome

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and is strictly by appointment. To book one in the diary, please get in contact.

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