1985 Audi Quattro SWB Replica 'Shorty'

Conceived in the white heat of 'Group B' rallying and immortalised by Audi’s relentless domination of the World Rally Championship, the Sport Quattro remains one of the most iconic homologation specials of the 1980s. With fewer than 220 built, genuine cars are now fiercely coveted, commanding significant sums and placing them beyond the reach of many enthusiasts. For those who desire the look, feel, and performance of the original, few recreations come closer than this superb example — one of only around 27 meticulously crafted by the renowned Audi specialists, Dialynx of Swindon, under the expert eye of Keith Murray.

Cherished by its current custodian for over two decades, this car began life as a standard Audi Coupé before undergoing a painstaking transformation at Dialynx to replicate the celebrated short-wheelbase Sport Quattro. Much more than a cosmetic exercise, the donor shell was shortened to the correct factory dimensions, while Audi 80 doors and front screen were incorporated in line with the original specification. As with all Dialynx conversions, the build was executed with exceptional attention to detail, and the result is a car that not only captures the look and presence of the original but also delivers the dynamic character and performance for which the Sport Quattro has become legendary.

Of particular note is the inclusion of several genuine Audi Sport Quattro components sourced during the build, a rarity even amongst high quality replicas. Inside, the dashboard is an original right-hand drive unit produced by Keith Sutton Motorsport during the 1980s for Audi’s own conversion programme for two cars, one for Hannu Mikkola and one for a rare right-hand drive road car, C465 YFX. The seats are authentic Sport Quattro items and the car rides on original 9" Q Sport alloy wheels. Finished in Tornado Red, a correct and desirable factory colour, the car presents today with an appearance and stance remarkably close to that of an authentic Sport Quattro.

Power comes from Audi’s revered 2.2-litre, five-cylinder, 20-valve turbocharged engine, here in RR Quattro-specification, paired with advanced Motec engine management to produce an impressive 360bhp. Coupled with Audi’s legendary quattro permanent four-wheel drive system, the performance on offer is exhilarating, combining relentless traction with the unique soundtrack of the iconic five-cylinder turbo - a driving experience that truly evokes the magic of Audi’s 'Group B' dominance.

Whilst the car has been enjoyed sparingly during current ownership, its vendor recently embarked upon a comprehensive restoration and recommissioning programme, taking over three years to ensure that it remains both mechanically and cosmetically first-class. Commissioned in 2022, the car has been restored over an extended period at a cost of in excess of £40,000 including a full body restoration and repaint in its original Tornado Red by Cotswold Classic Car Restorations and the replacement of numerous critical components and a detailed mechanical overhaul by Dyalinx. The result is a car that not only presents beautifully but is also ready to be enjoyed, offering the reassurance of significant recent investment and a renewed lease of life.

What sets this particular example apart is its provenance and integrity. Built originally by Keith and Dialynx, it represents one of the finest recreations available today. Its long term ownership is a testament to the enjoyment this 'Shorty' has brought to its vendor over the years and the recent restoration ensures that it is presented in superb condition for its next custodian.

This superb Audi Sport Quattro Replica offers the chance to experience the look, feel and performance of the 'Group B' legend without compromise and at a fraction of the cost of an original. With its authentic components, correct proportions and powerful 360bhp five-cylinder turbocharged engine, it's ready to be driven, shown and enjoyed. For the dedicated Audi enthusiast or collector of significant performance machinery, this represents an exceptional opportunity to acquire a truly special motor car - one that celebrates a golden era of rallying and pays faithful tribute to one of its greatest icons.