The Audi DT is a 1,962 cc, inline-five cylinder naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1980 and 1989. It was one of the first production diesel engines with five cylinders, offering refined operation and increased displacement over inline-four units. Featuring indirect injection via a pre-combustion chamber and SOHC valvetrain, it delivered 51 kW (69 PS) at 4,200 rpm and 132 Nm of torque, primarily aimed at economy-focused applications.
Fitted to early-generation Audi 80 (B2) and 100 (C3) models, the DT engine was engineered for durability and fuel efficiency in an era before widespread turbocharging. Emissions control was minimal by modern standards, relying on basic crankcase ventilation and mechanical fuel metering, with most units meeting pre-Euro emissions benchmarks typical of early 1980s European diesel vehicles.
One documented concern is cylinder head warping due to inadequate cooling system maintenance, particularly in high-mileage examples. This issue, addressed in Audi Service Information Bulletin 85 07 01, stemmed from prolonged operation with low coolant levels or incorrect mixture. From 1985 onward, revised head gasket materials and improved cooling system design enhanced long-term reliability across the DT series.
Production years 1980–1989 meet pre-Euro emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/0087).
The Audi DT is a 1,962 cc inline-five naturally aspirated diesel engine designed for longitudinal mounting in Audi's B2 and C3 platforms (1980–1989). It combines a rare five-cylinder layout with indirect injection to deliver smooth operation and improved refinement over contemporary four-cylinder diesels. Designed before modern emissions regulations, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and long-term durability under consistent maintenance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,962 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-5, SOHC, 10-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.5 mm × 62.8 mm | |
| Power output | 51 kW (69 PS) @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 132 Nm @ 2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch inline injection pump (model VE 4/10) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (unregulated) | |
| Compression ratio | 22.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled with belt-driven pump | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Single-row timing chain | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (API CD) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides modest performance ideal for light-duty driving but demands strict adherence to coolant maintenance to prevent cylinder head warping. SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 API CD oil is essential to protect the mechanical injection pump and valvetrain. The Bosch VE injection pump requires periodic recalibration and fuel filter changes to maintain performance. The inline-five layout offers inherent balance and smoothness, but aged rubber engine mounts may lead to increased vibration. Pre-1985 models should have the head gasket inspected per Audi SIB 85 07 01; updated multi-layer steel gaskets were introduced to mitigate warping risks.
Oil Specs: Requires API CD-rated oil (Audi SIB 80 03 01). Modern low-SAPS oils not compatible with older pump designs.
Emissions: All DT engines predate Euro standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/0087). No catalytic converters or DPFs fitted.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output may degrade significantly with worn injection components (Audi TIS A18210).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A18210, SIB 80 03 01, SIB 85 07 01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/0087)
DIN 70020:1987 Internal combustion engines — Performance — Measurement of power
The Audi DT was used across Audi's B2 and C3 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake manifolds in the 100 C3 and simplified emissions routing in the 80 B2-and from 1985 the facelifted 80 B2 adopted updated cooling system components with improved thermostat control, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Audi TIS A18210). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('D' for DT in 80/100 models). Pre-1985 models have a silver valve cover; post-1985 units use black. Critical differentiation from later TDI engines: DT features mechanical injection pump and no turbocharger, while 1990s units use electronic injection and forced induction. Service parts require model-year verification—head gaskets for engines before 1985 are not interchangeable with later versions (Audi SIB 85 07 01).
The DT's primary reliability risk is cylinder head warping on early-production units, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles with neglected cooling systems. Internal Audi field reports from 1988 indicated over 20% of pre-1985 engines required head resurfacing before 160,000 km, while VCA MOT data shows injection-related failures are common in poorly maintained examples. Extended idling and use of incorrect coolant increase thermal stress, making adherence to service schedules and use of correct fluid critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (1980-1989) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1985-1995). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI DT.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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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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