The Audi Coupe (B4), produced between 1992 and 1996, represented a significant evolution in Audi’s coupe lineage. The 2.3 E variant, powered by a 2.3-liter inline five-cylinder engine producing 133 horsepower, was a key model within the B4 range, bridging the gap between the more affordable base models and the performance-oriented S2. This generation, designated internally as the 8C series, built upon the success of the B3 Coupe, offering improved styling, refinement, and technology. Production of the 2.3 E specifically ran from June 1992 to July 1994, finding a niche among buyers seeking a blend of sporty aesthetics and comfortable grand touring capabilities.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | Coupe |
| Generation | Coupe (B4 8C) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.3 E (133 Hp) |
| Start of production | June, 1992 |
| End of production | July, 1994 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 206 km/h (128 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp, 108.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm, 151.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 133 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 186 Nm @ 4000 rpm (137.19 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | NG |
| Engine displacement | 2309 cm3 (140.9 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.4 mm (3.4 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1230 kg (2711.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1690 kg (3725.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 295 l (10.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 977 l (34.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4366 mm (171.89 in.) |
| Width | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1930 mm (75.98 in.) |
| Height | 1375 mm (54.13 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2556 mm (100.63 in.) |
| Front track | 1446 mm (56.93 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1447 mm (56.97 in.) |
| Front overhang | 911 mm (35.87 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 899 mm (35.39 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2.3 E was the Audi NG engine, a naturally aspirated, inline five-cylinder powerplant. This engine was a hallmark of Audi’s engineering prowess, offering a unique blend of smoothness and performance. The NG featured a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head, incorporating a single overhead camshaft (OHC) operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a Bosch Motronic multi-port fuel injection system, optimizing combustion for both power and efficiency. The 2.3-liter displacement, combined with a 10:1 compression ratio, allowed for a respectable 133 horsepower and 186 Nm (137 lb-ft) of torque. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and front-wheel drive configuration were standard for Audi models of this era. The standard transmission was a five-speed manual, providing precise control over the engine’s powerband.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.3 E offered a balanced driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the S2, it provided ample power for comfortable cruising and spirited driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 8.7 seconds, and the car could reach a top speed of 128 mph. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to effectively utilize the engine’s torque, providing responsive acceleration in most situations. The front-wheel drive layout, while offering good traction in most conditions, could exhibit some understeer when pushed hard. Compared to the higher-output S2, the 2.3 E felt less urgent in its acceleration, but it offered a more relaxed and refined driving experience. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance between fuel economy and performance, making it a suitable choice for both city driving and long highway journeys.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.3 E typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. Interior appointments included cloth upholstery, power windows, central locking, and an integrated stereo system. Optional extras included leather upholstery, sunroof, alloy wheels, and upgraded audio systems. The dashboard layout was typical of Audi’s design language at the time, featuring a clean and functional design. The 2.3 E occupied a mid-range position in the B4 Coupe lineup, offering more features than the base models but falling short of the luxury and performance of the S2. It was aimed at buyers who wanted a stylish and comfortable coupe without the higher price tag of the performance variant.
Chassis & Braking
The B4 Coupe utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a double wishbone rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 2.3 E was equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear, offering adequate stopping power for its weight and performance. Power-assisted steering was standard, providing light and precise steering feel. The chassis was designed to provide a balance between rigidity and weight, contributing to the car’s overall handling dynamics. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi Coupe 2.3 E was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and refined driving experience. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the outright performance of the S2. Fuel economy was considered reasonable for a coupe of its size and performance, averaging around 28.3 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to other coupes in its class, such as the BMW 3 Series Coupe and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe, the Audi offered a unique blend of German engineering and distinctive styling. Reliability was generally good, although regular maintenance was essential to ensure the longevity of the engine and other components.
Legacy
The Audi Coupe B4 2.3 E remains a popular choice among enthusiasts today. The NG engine is known for its durability and relatively straightforward maintenance. While finding parts can sometimes be a challenge, a dedicated aftermarket support network exists. The B4 Coupe has gained a reputation as a classic German coupe, offering a unique driving experience and a stylish design. Well-maintained examples are increasingly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, and the car’s enduring appeal is a testament to Audi’s engineering and design prowess. The 2.3 E variant, in particular, represents a sweet spot in the B4 Coupe lineup, offering a balance of performance, comfort, and affordability.
