The Audi 1T is a 1,795 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1970 and 1973. It was developed during Audi's integration into the Volkswagen Group and used in the Audi 80 (B1) platform. Featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and carbureted fuel delivery, it produced 75 kW (102 PS) in standard tune. This engine formed the basis for later fuel-injected variants as emissions regulations began evolving in European markets.
Fitted to the Audi 80 (B1) and Audi Fox models, the 1T engine was engineered for economical daily transportation and reliable mid-range performance. It contributed to Audi's reputation for durable, well-engineered compact sedans during the early 1970s. Emissions control was minimal by modern standards, relying on basic crankcase ventilation and ignition timing adjustments, meeting pre-Euro emission benchmarks applicable at the time in West Germany and export markets.
One documented concern is carburetor icing under cold, high-humidity conditions, particularly affecting models used in northern European climates. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 71-08-01, stems from heat transfer limitations in the intake manifold design. Later revisions incorporated revised air intake routing and improved thermostatic control to mitigate ice formation.
Production years 1970–1973 meet pre-Euro German TA Luft standards; no formal Euro classification applies (VCA UK Type Approval not applicable).
The Audi 1T is a 1,795 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact sedans (1970–1973). It combines SOHC valvetrain architecture with carbureted fuel delivery to deliver reliable mid-range performance. Designed to meet early emissions benchmarks in West Germany, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and serviceability over high specific output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,795 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded RON 95) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 79.0 mm | |
| Power output | 75 kW (102 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 140 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Solex 32 PDSI carburetor | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (German TA Luft 1969) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 mineral oil | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The SOHC carbureted design provides predictable performance but requires seasonal carburetor adjustments to maintain idle stability. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil is specified due to camshaft and chain lubrication requirements in high-load conditions. Cold-weather operation may require pre-heating in extreme climates to prevent carburetor icing. The Solex carburetor demands regular cleaning and float-level checks to avoid mixture imbalances. Later model-year engines benefit from revised intake manifolds per Audi SIB 71-08-01, reducing icing risk. Ignition timing and dwell angle must be manually set during service using factory tools to ensure emissions compliance and fuel efficiency.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 mineral oil (Audi SIB 71-05-03). Synthetic oils not approved due to seal compatibility.
Emissions: Pre-Euro TA Luft 1969 standards apply to all 1T models (VCA Historical Archive Ref. HA/70/001). No Euro classification exists for this era.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies with ambient temperature and fuel quality (Audi TIS Doc. A18045).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A17820, A18045, SIB 71-05-03, SIB 71-08-01
VCA Historical Vehicle Records Archive (HA/70/001)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Audi 1T was used across Audi's B1 platform with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Volkswagen Group components. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-intake manifold revisions for cold-climate markets-and from 1973 the facelifted Audi 80 LS adopted a revised carburetor setup, creating interchange limits. Partnerships enabled shared tooling and parts with Volkswagen's EA827 engine family, allowing cross-manufacturer service compatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the starter motor (Audi TIS A17820). The 5th digit of the VIN indicates engine type ('1' for 1T series). Pre-1972 models have chrome valve covers with ribbed design; post-1972 units use matte-finish covers. Critical differentiation from EA827: Audi 1T uses Solex 32 PDSI carburetor with manual choke, while EA827 variants use Pierburg units. Service parts require model-year verification—intake manifolds before 09/1971 are incompatible with post-facelift models due to routing changes (Audi SIB 71-08-01).
The 1T's primary reliability risk is carburetor icing in cold, humid conditions, with elevated incidence in northern European use. Internal Audi field reports from 1972 noted increased cold-start failures in Scandinavia, while UK DVSA vintage vehicle records show carburetor-related faults dominate MOT advisories for B1 platform vehicles. Infrequent use and ethanol-blended fuels increase mixture instability, making seasonal maintenance and correct oil usage critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (1970-1975) and UK DVSA vintage vehicle failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI 1T.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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