The 2011 ABT Audi A1: A Bold Departure from Convention
ABT's reimagined Audi A1 arrives, challenging conventions and making an assertive statement in the automotive world. Hans-Jürgen Abt, General Manager of the leading VW group tuner, hails the model as a symbol of democratized premium quality. The A1 brings to the table a mix of driving enjoyment and agility that ABT has honed to perfection, without compromising its inherent sporty spirit.
The Power Play: Engine Upgrades
ABT hasn't just redefined the aesthetics of the Audi A1, they've infused it with a healthy dose of mechanical vigor. Under the hood, the A1's standard engines receive a significant power boost. The 1.2 TFSI, for instance, graduates from 86 HP to a livelier 115 HP, while the 1.4 TFSI jumps from a modest 122 HP to an impressive 150 HP. The 1.6 litre diesel engine is not left out of this revamp, reaching an output of up to 125 HP. Furthermore, ABT has integrated performance springs and altered the vehicle's centre of gravity, promising a smooth, enjoyable drive, particularly on winding country roads.
Extravagance in Design: The Three Amigos
The new ABT A1 isn't merely about performance upgrades; it is an expression of style. Three distinct design versions have been put forward, each making its own vibrant statement. The KLECKS, characterized by its urban red and casual splashes of color, is the symbol of the city dweller. The ALOHA, with its laid-back lavender design, brings the relaxed beach vibes to the mix. The HIGH-VOLTAGE, painted in bold green, is a striking and audacious departure from the norm. These versions showcase characteristic fender inserts, rear apron insert, rear spoiler, mirror covers, the front lip, and side skirts. Each version also features uniquely designed foot mats, reinforcing the theme.
A Wheel Deal: Unmistakable Presence
ABT's touch extends to the A1's wheels, giving it a robust and commanding presence on the road. Sporting a dark "Titan" double-pipe sports rear muffler and five-spoke wheels available in 17 or 18 inches, the A1 cuts an imposing figure. Paired with ABT Alloy rings that match the design's color, the wheels seem larger than their actual size. High-performance tyres are available, ensuring that the vehicle's dynamic nature isn't just cosmetic. Each version of the ABT A1 carries the ABT MOTORSPORT logo on its windscreen, a proud declaration of its roots.
Breaking the Monotony: A Vibrant Interruption
The 2011 ABT Audi A1 refuses to blend into the typical car landscape. Its audacious design choices, coupled with substantial performance enhancements, make it a noteworthy contender in its class. This ABT take on the Audi A1 throws a vibrant 'KLECKS' at the drab grey of everyday cars, sends out a relaxed 'ALOHA' to the monochrome majority, and injects a jolt of 'HIGH-VOLTAGE' into the driving experience. In its singularity, the ABT Audi A1 invites us to imagine a world where cars are not just machines, but expressions of our vibrant individualities.
-Ed
2011 ABT Audi A1