The Audi Coupe (B3), produced from 1980 to 1988, represented a significant step forward for Audi, blending sporty styling with practical usability. The 89 model year, specifically the 2.0 E (113 hp) variant with catalytic converter, arrived in May 1989 and continued through July 1990. This iteration sat within the broader B3 Coupe range, which was based on the Audi 80 (B3) platform – also known internally as the B3. The 2.0 E was positioned as a mid-range offering, providing a balance between performance and fuel economy, appealing to buyers seeking a more refined driving experience than the base models but without the higher price tag of the more powerful versions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | Coupe |
| Generation | Coupe (B3 89) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 E (113 Hp) CAT |
| Start of production | May, 1989 |
| End of production | July, 1990 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 26.7 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 32.1 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 11.4 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 196 km/h (121.79 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp, 100 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm, 150.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 113 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57 Hp/l |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 3250 rpm (125.39 lb.-ft. @ 3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 3A |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3 l (3.17 US qt | 2.64 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1130 kg (2491.22 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1590 kg (3505.35 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 280 l (9.89 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 960 l (33.9 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Length | 4366 mm (171.89 in.) |
| Width | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Height | 1370 mm (53.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2556 mm (100.63 in.) |
| Front track | 1446 mm (56.93 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1441 mm (56.73 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 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 |
| Tires size | 205/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2.0 E was the Audi-developed 3A engine, a 1984cc inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine featured a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head, a common configuration for the era. It utilized a Bosch Motronic fuel injection system, a multi-port system that precisely metered fuel delivery for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine employed a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with two valves per cylinder. The catalytic converter, denoted by the “CAT” in the model name, was a crucial component in meeting increasingly stringent emissions regulations. The 5-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a relatively direct connection between the engine and the front wheels. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and highway cruising, though not as aggressively geared as the higher-performance variants.
Driving Characteristics
The 113 hp and 125 lb-ft of torque delivered by the 2.0 E engine provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.4 seconds, and top speed was approximately 122 mph. Compared to the more powerful 2.1L five-cylinder models, the 2.0 E felt noticeably less responsive, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the 2.0 E offered a smoother and more refined driving experience, with less engine noise and vibration. The manual transmission, while not particularly sporty, was precise and easy to use. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided good traction in most conditions, but could exhibit some understeer when pushed hard.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 E typically came equipped with features such as power steering, central locking, and electric windows. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded materials. The dashboard layout was typical of Audi’s design language at the time, featuring a clean and functional design. Optional extras included a sunroof, alloy wheels, and upgraded audio systems. The trim level was generally considered a step up from the base models, offering a more comfortable and well-equipped interior.
Chassis & Braking
The B3 Audi Coupe utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a double wishbone suspension in the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 2.0 E variant typically featured ventilated disc brakes in the front and solid disc brakes in the rear. The braking system was adequate for the car’s performance, but lacked the stopping power of the larger brake systems found on the higher-performance models. A stabilizer bar was fitted to both the front and rear suspension to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0 E variant of the Audi Coupe B3 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and good fuel economy. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the power and excitement of the larger-displacement engines. Compared to the 2.1L five-cylinder models, the 2.0 E offered a more affordable entry point into the Audi Coupe range. It also provided better fuel economy and lower maintenance costs. Against competitors like the BMW 3-Series Coupe and the Mercedes-Benz 190E Coupe, the Audi Coupe B3 offered a unique blend of style, practicality, and German engineering.
Legacy
The Audi Coupe B3 2.0 E, while not the most powerful or sought-after variant, remains a popular choice among classic Audi enthusiasts. The 3A engine is known for its reliability and durability, provided it is properly maintained. Parts availability is generally good, although some specific components may be difficult to find. Today, these cars are often found in good condition, offering a relatively affordable and enjoyable classic car experience. The B3 Coupe, and the 2.0 E in particular, represents a significant chapter in Audi’s history, showcasing the brand’s commitment to innovation and quality.
