Audi 100 C2
The car that pioneered the five-cylinder petrol engine and elevated Audi to the executive class.
- Power
- 136 bhp
- Top speed
- 117 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$15k
About the Audi 100 C2
The second-generation Audi 100 (C2) was a pivotal model that transitioned Audi from a 'nicer Volkswagen' into a genuine executive competitor for BMW and Mercedes-Benz. It is most famous for introducing the world's first production five-cylinder petrol engine, designed to offer six-cylinder smoothness with four-cylinder efficiency. The 2.2 E (often badged 5E) utilised Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection to produce a respectable 136 PS, making it a refined long-distance cruiser. Its angular, modern styling and focus on lightweight construction set the template for Audi's future 'Vorsprung durch Technik' philosophy.
Audi 100 C2 specs
The Audi 100 C2 produces 136 bhp (101 kW) and 185 Nm (136 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 117 mph (188 km/h).
| Make | Audi |
|---|---|
| Model | 100 |
| Generation | C2 |
| Trim | 2.2 E |
| Years | 1976–1982 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Germany |
| Original price | About $13,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.1-litre inline-5 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,144 cc (2.1 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 136 bhp (101 kW) at 5,700 rpm |
| Torque | 185 Nm (136 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,400 rpm |
| Top speed | 117 mph (188 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,170 kg (2,579 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 116 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an Audi 100 C2 worth?
A typical Audi 100 C2 is estimated to be worth $4,000 – $15,000 (about £3,000 – £11,000).
Its original price when new was about $13,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Audi 100 C2 rarity in CarSpot
The Audi 100 C2 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 19 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Audi 100 C2 fun facts
- The Audi 100 C2 was the first Audi model to reach a production milestone of one million units across the model line.
- Its five-cylinder engine was essentially a four-cylinder EA827 unit with an extra cylinder added, a layout that became an Audi signature.
- In North America, this generation was sold as the Audi 5000 to distance it from the smaller 100-series cars and appeal to luxury buyers.