The Audi Fox, was sold in the USA from 1973 to 1979 and was the first model to see success in the North American Market. The Audi 80, as it was known elsewhere, helped create a new segment of sporty, efficient, fun-to-drive small sedans. Here are 10 interesting facts about the 1973-78 Audi Fox.
Birth of a Brand
The initial "Auto Union" symbolized by the four-ring Audi logo, was formed in 1932 by an Engineer named August Horch, though the first Audi branded cars date from 1909. In German, the word "horch" means "listen," and when translated in Latin, it became Audi. The Audi brand name was discontinued at the start of WWII, but Horch, Wanderer, DKW, and of course VW continued. The modern Audi era began much later, in the sixties, when it was acquired by Volkswagen and reintroduced as a brand in the USA in 1970.
>>Join the conversation about the Original Audi Fox 1973-79 right here in the Audi World Forum!
Euro Suspension
The original Audi 80/Fox employed a MacPherson strut suspension up front, with a C-section rear-beam axle, with coil springs, trailing arms, and a Panhard rod. This was an unusual set-up for the North American market, which had been dominated by V8 cars with front engines, and driven via solid rear axles. Considering the light weight and low power, The Audi Fox really proved its German roots when the road turned twisty.
>>Join the conversation about the Original Audi Fox 1973-79 right here in the Audi World Forum!
End of an Era
While the Audi 80 (B1) platform was discontinued in Europe in 1978, it was sold into the 1979 model year in North America. The well engineered, lightweight, front-wheel drive Audi had proved itself in the cold and harsh northern climates of the USA for several winters. The sporty suspension, and steering proved itself a match to many an older sports car in the twisty mountain roads all over the country, and in the enthusiast press. This was the start of the modern Audi we all love.
>>Join the conversation about the Original Audi Fox 1973-79 right here in the Audi World Forum!
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