HSR Manufaktur is bringing back the spirit of the iconic Audi Sport Quattro with a new limited-edition model called the Type 859. Priced from around €500,000, this modern tribute blends classic design cues with a powerful, upgraded 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine.
Modern Take on a Rally Legend
The Type 859 draws inspiration from the legendary 1984 Audi Sport Quattro SWB rally car. HSR’s founder, Ivan Garcia, reimagines the classic by starting with a shortened B2 Audi Coupe chassis. A completely rebuilt, award-winning 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine forms the heart of the car, featuring forged internals, new turbo setup, and a bespoke intake manifold.
Performance and Drivetrain
- The engine produces between 500 and 600 horsepower, selectable via driving modes.
- Power is sent permanently to all four wheels through a reinforced six-speed manual transmission.
- The drivetrain includes a Torsen centre differential and a mechanical limited-slip rear differential for strong traction.
- Active exhaust system enhances the engine’s sound.
Chassis, Aerodynamics, and Weight
- The car has a fully integrated hidden roll cage for rigidity and safety.
- New front and rear subframes, carbon fiber body panels, and aero elements like vents and splitters create a distinctive, aggressive look.
- Weighing under 1,200 kg, it aims for an agile driving experience.
- Suspension features multi-valve coilovers, stiffer bushes, and carbon-ceramic brakes.
Interior and Features
The interior blends classic and modern touches with leather, carbon fiber, and aluminum materials. Analog instrumentation matches the retro vibe, while comforts like air conditioning and modern driving aids including launch control and rev matching provide usability.
Limited Production and Market Interest
HSR plans to build only 84 units of the Type 859, referencing the Sport Quattro’s 1984 championship year. The car’s price starts at around €500,000 before taxes. Demand is reportedly high, with strong interest from collectors in the USA, Germany, and Switzerland. The prototype is currently in development, so final details may evolve.
Why It Matters
The HSR Manufaktur Type 859 revives a focused, rally-derived ethos for a niche audience that values heritage and raw driving thrills. It showcases how classic designs can be reinterpreted with modern engineering, appealing to enthusiasts seeking exclusivity and performance beyond mainstream sports cars.
Source: topgear.com