Audi 80 B4 (1991–1995)
The fourth Audi 80 generation, pairing revised chassis engineering with an Avant estate and culminating in the Porsche-developed RS2.
Overview
The B4 was the fourth and final generation of the Audi 80, introduced in September 1991. Its familiar outline concealed substantial changes to the B3’s underlying structure. Audi records a wider track, longer wheelbase and redesigned rear axle, changes that enabled a saloon load-through arrangement and made an estate practical to develop.
The Avant entered the market in August 1992. Saloon production ended in summer 1994; the 80 Avant continued until August 1995. Thus 1991–1995 describes the generation’s overall calendar span, not the production period of every body style. Audi Tradition’s B4 history, page 8.
Engineering and range
Six-cylinder engines extended the 80’s range in this generation. The S2 brought turbocharged performance to the saloon and Avant as well as the related Coupé, while the RS2 developed the estate concept further. These performance cars should be distinguished from the ordinary 80 range. B4 development and derivatives — ABT Sportsline.
Five-cylinder engines also remained relevant: Audi documents the B4 80 2.3E from 1991 with a naturally aspirated 2,309 cc engine. It was distinct from the smaller-capacity, turbocharged five-cylinder used in the RS2. Shared cylinder count does not imply a shared specification. Audi five-cylinder engine history.
Performance variant
Audi RS2 Avant (1994–1995)
Developed jointly with Porsche, the RS2 combined the B4 Avant body with a 232 kW (315 PS) turbocharged engine and quattro all-wheel drive. Porsche assembled it in Zuffenhausen using Audi-supplied bodywork and components. That manufacturing arrangement applies to the RS2, not to the entire B4 range. RS2 production — Porsche.
Place in Audi history
Audi’s own generation history classifies the B4 separately, although ABT describes its origins as an extensive B3 facelift. This library follows Audi’s four-generation classification. The B5 successor adopted the A4 name; the RS2 remained an 80-based derivative during that transition. Audi’s model-line history.