Background: The Audi 80 first appeared in 1972 and became an instant hit with people that wanted a refined, well-built mid-size German saloon but wanted to leave the well-beaten track that is BMW or Mercedes ownership.

The model remained a rare sight on these shores until it found more mainstream success with the B4 model from 1991 onwards.

A major facelift to the aerodynamic look of the preceding B3 and a string of detail changes further enhanced customer appeal, drawing buyers to the brand, whose rallying successes had helped transform the Audi image.

In addition to all-new galvanised bodyshells, the 80s featured Audi’s groundbreaking procon-ten safety restraining system.

The new models used VW’s B3 platform (which also underpinned the Passat) but with a longitudinal engine, rather than the transverse location of its VW cousins.

The introduction of the B4 marked the beginning of Audi’s move into the luxury market, as the Ingolstadt manufacturer completed its market separation f...