Audi 5000
In 1977 the new C2 generation Audi 100 was renamed Audi 5000, and it kept this name for the next generation C3 in 1982, but the brand changed it back to Audi 100 in 1988 because the 5000 name had been tainted by publicity from the unintended acceleration lawsuits. In 1995 the 100 was renamed Audi A6. The 5000 was known for its handling, comfort, and refinement. It was also one of the first cars to offer anti-lock brakes (ABS) as an option.
Audi 5000 Overview
The Audi 5000 was a mid-size luxury car that was produced by Audi from 1977 to 1987. It was also known as the Audi 100 in some markets. The 5000 was powered by a variety of engines, including a 2.0-liter inline-4, a 2.3-liter inline-5, and a 2.5-liter inline-5. It was available in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, there were a number of reports of sudden unintended acceleration (SUA) in Audi 5000s. These reports led to a number of lawsuits and investigations, and Audi eventually recalled over 1 million cars.
The SUA problems were eventually traced to a design flaw in the throttle mechanism. However, the damage to Audi’s reputation was already done, and sales of the 5000 never fully recovered. The Audi 5000 was discontinued in 1987. It was replaced by the Audi 100 C4. The Audi 5000 is still remembered today for its role in the SUA controversy. However, it is also remembered for its handling, comfort, and refinement. It was a technologically advanced car for its time, and it helped to establish Audi as a major player in the luxury car market.
Audi 5000 Sales Figures
Audi 5000 U.S Sales Data & Charts
US Annual Sales
Year | Sales Units |
---|---|
1977 | 4,894 |
1978 | 20,761 |
1979 | 28,276 |
1980 | 26,610 |
1981 | 28,649 |
1982 | 26,298 |
1983 | 18,437 |
1984 | 43,764 |
1985 | 47,766 |
1986 | 40,107 |
1987 | 25,943 |
1988 | 7,251 |
1989 | 357 |
US Annual Growth
Sources: Manufacturers, ANDC