Audi TT V6 manual | Spotted
Time is almost up for the TT, so what better time to revisit the iconic original?
Though it wasn’t stated in as many words, the announcement of the TT Iconic Edition did feel very much like a farewell for the Audi coupe. Perhaps there’ll be a Final Edition as well, though it’s hard to imagine where the TT goes from a 100-unit production run of 400hp cars that cost £87,650 in the UK. This really looks like the end of the line for this generation of TT (which has been around since 2014) and for the model line generally, which will celebrate a quarter of a century in 2023.
If another Audi sports car comes (and that’s a very big ‘if’, given how few sell) then it will be electric. And, if we’re all honest with ourselves, probably be some kind of two-door SUV thing that might carry over the TT name. A very different kind of TT, basically. Which, even if it’s never been the world’s favourite sports car, seems something of a shame. The demise of two-door two-seaters that look as good as the TT always has is not a reality to be celebrated.
Still, the end of an era does rather encourage some wistful reminiscing, so here’s a very rare Mk1 TT plucked from the classifieds. That isn’t a typo, either; despite bazillions of originals being sold between the late 1990s and mid 2000s, certain specs were undoubtedly less common that others. This is one of them, a top-of-the-range 3.2 quattro coupe, with the six-speed manual gearbox.
Doesn’t exactly sound out of the ordinary, but don’t forget that big V6 launched in 2003 with what was then the new fangled DSG gearbox. It revolutionised automatic transmissions, and certainly played to the TT’s strengths as a fast, stylish cruiser rather than all-out sports car. Look for a V6 now and it’s the dual-clutch cars you’ll see most of. Which is fine, because it’s preferable to 20-year-old torque converter tech, but those early DSGs didn’t have the best reputation. And if buying a TT now as an occasional car, the added interaction of a manual will surely hold some sway.
On top of the six-speed, this TT 3.2 has the added benefit of some smart BBS split rim wheels and cream (or is it yellow?) leather that further lifts what remains a very stylish interior. Inevitably there’s some wear, because it’ll be 18 years old next year, but the TT still cuts a dash. 64,000 miles isn’t many, either.
With an MOT until May and a recent service including the Haldex, there shouldn’t be much for a new owner to shell out for immediately. Apart from the fuel, of course, though the sound will ensure you soon forget all about that. And there’s not much to pay for the car in the first instance: it’s £7,995. Sure, there are 1.8s around for less money that’ll be just as fast, but they won’t sound anywhere near as good. Consider instead that there are already lower mileage, DSG cabrios out there for anything up to £15k and this coupe looks like really keen value. Don’t forget about the Golf R32, either, with which the Audi shares so much - a car of comparable mileage and age to the TT could be £20k. So don’t celebrate the Audi TT with an £88k one that looks way too expensive - try the £8,000 V6 that’s even cheaper than a VW Golf…
SPECIFICATION | AUDI TT 3.2 V6
Engine: 3,179cc, V6
Transmission: 6-speed manual, all-wheel drive
Power (hp): 250@6,300rpm
Torque (lb ft): 236@2,800rpm
MPG: 27
CO2: 254g/km
Year registered: 2005
Recorded mileage: 64,000
Price new: £29,745 (2004 DSG)
Yours for: £7,995
d, even after some suspension mods at The TT Shop. I didn't find the DSG box in this period fully resolved - great going up through the gears, but could be jerky going down, wouldn't rev match.
The manual transmission also removes some of the reliability issues with early DSGs. Mine spent three days in the workshop under warranty when one of the paddles stopped working.
The four cylinder cars are more tuneable but the V6 elevates the TT, smooth and gutsy with a great sound.
This doesn't look bad value to me at all, although I would prefer it on the standard alloys.
The 4cyl cars are far better balanced and better driver’s cars and not much less power
Serious thinking of getting another as a second car - would be a 4-cyl 225 for preference. Tough finding one in (what I consider) an interesting colour though.
The only negative memory I had from mine is pulling up to the line at traffic lights and not always being able to see them!
I had them on mine. I think the problem with the V6 is the ride height, as apparently they needed to jack it up a bit due to sump clearance. I lowered mine on eibach springs, and then had spacers fitted, which made it look much better and more alike the Quattro Sport in terms of stance. I also had a revo remap which seemed to liberate a bit more poke out the engine. Not night and day admittedly.
Had my Dolomite Grey with Silver Grey leather for 5 years and it never missed a bit. DSG too, which personally I think I'd still prefer. It's a good gearbox, I certainly had no problems with it and suits the GT/cruiser billing.
Nothing special handling wise. But as a comfortable cruiser with a lovely engine note, I think they're great value.
Would personally seek out a more interesting colour (at least it doesn't have the black leather). Avus silver, Misano Red or the Dolomite more preferable for me. But at this mileage I do think this it's a good price.
Different cars though. V6 is more a cruiser and has a lovely engine note.
They're not super fast. But with the DSG in Sport they're quick enough. Certainly never wanted for any more power when I had one. I was also running a D2 S8 at the same time with the 360bhp 4.2 V8 and if I'm honest, because of the better gearbox the TT felt quicker and sounded better.
I had them on mine. I think the problem with the V6 is the ride height, as apparently they needed to jack it up a bit due to sump clearance. I lowered mine on eibach springs, and then had spacers fitted, which made it look much better and more alike the Quattro Sport in terms of stance. I also had a revo remap which seemed to liberate a bit more poke out the engine. Not night and day admittedly.
Had my Dolomite Grey with Silver Grey leather for 5 years and it never missed a bit. DSG too, which personally I think I'd still prefer. It's a good gearbox, I certainly had no problems with it and suits the GT/cruiser billing.
Nothing special handling wise. But as a comfortable cruiser with a lovely engine note, I think they're great value.
Would personally seek out a more interesting colour (at least it doesn't have the black leather). Avus silver, Misano Red or the Dolomite more preferable for me. But at this mileage I do think this it's a good price.
I had a Dolomite DSG as well, a few years back. Nice interior, great sound, and reliable in my ownership. A sportscar it was not.
I'd have another but would prefer manual. The car in the OP looks quite good.
The manual means you avoid the DSG failures that can get expensive, but not needing to change the timing chain, you can do a check with a VagCOM/VCDS to see if its ok, getting near or due changing, its a job most places avoid like the plague as its very labour intensive and an engine out job.
It can be a 2 to 3 grand job, similar for the DSG box mechatronic repair, or was, am sure there are perhaps cheaper methods on that.
I had them on mine. I think the problem with the V6 is the ride height, as apparently they needed to jack it up a bit due to sump clearance. I lowered mine on eibach springs...
So, Audi raised the ride height because the big block needed clearance for the sump, then you lowered it? Brave...
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