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The new racer used a tube frame design, which allowed for a revised suspension that incorporated double wishbone arms and coil-over shock absorbers. This construction also allowed the engine to be moved further back towards the center of the car for better weight distribution. Of course, the most interesting features of Audi Quattro's is the all-wheel-drive system. The central differential was a self-locking TORSEN. The front differential was a limited-slip setup with a viscous coupling whereas the rear used a multi-plate coupling. Audi described the arrangement used on the IMSA cars as an extremely advanced version of the current production system. This feature caused the greatest amount of concern amongst competitors. As the all-wheel-drive system would provide a distinct advantage in adverse conditions.
The connection between the all-wheel-drive system and engine was made using an all-synchromesh 6-speed transmission. One of the gears was disabled as IMSA rules limited the number of forward gears to five. The driveline also incorporated a twin plate clutch.
Another unique design feature of Audi's is their engines. The car was equipped with a five-cylinder 2.2 litre turbocharged engine that had 4-valves per cylinder. The electronics for the engine was controlled by a Bosch Motronic MP 1.7 system. A dry sump system, which held 12.6 quarts of oil, was used to lubricate the engine. These features and the IMSA engine rules allowed Audi to generate an additional 110 horsepower (from 510 hp to 620 hp) over the Trans Am prepared motors.
The cars were equipped with four-piston calipers and ventilated rotors, which featured carbon fiber brake pads for extended life and better stopping. Fourteen-inch diameter alloy wheels - 17 inches wide were fitted with Goodyear racing tires.
| 1989 AUDI 90 QUATTRO - TECHNICAL DATA | | ENGINE | 90 QUATTRO | 90 QUATTRO IMSA GTO | | Type | 5-cylinder in-line | 5-cylinder in-line | | Displacement | 2309 cc (141 cu.in.) | 2190 cc (133.6 cu.in.) | | Bore and Stroke | 3.25 in. x 3.40 in. |
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