1982 in Motoring - Germany

Germany

Audi further strengthened its already healthy reputation as a producer of quality, upmarket cars with the launch of the all-new 100. It is a well equipped, comfortable and solid executive saloon with an aerodynamic bodyshell. The four-door saloon (no longer with a two-door variant) is joined by the five-door Avant estate car. Equipment levels on the standard 100 models are generous enough, but the upmarket 200 has specification levels to rival the likes of the BMW 7 Series in the higher sector.

BMW have bolstered their already-impressive model range with the launch of the new 3-Series, a stylish new range of two- and four-door saloons which are direct competitors for the Audi 80. The range kicks off with the 316, a 1.8 engined model which offers hardly breathtaking performance but still has impressive rear-wheel drive ride and handling. Topping the range is the 323i, which is capable of around 130 mph and has superb handling to match. Build quality is also very good, though such an exclusive car does not come cheap.

Another new model has rolled off the production line at BMW. This time it's the new 5-Series, which is in reality little more than a reworking of the original model. It is a well-equipped, stylish, well-built, comfortable and exclusive large saloon that gives the Bavarian firm a true competitor for the Audi 100, whether you're looking for economy in the shape of the slightly underpowered 518 or ultimate performance in the form of the ultra-quick M5. As with all of BMW's products, it is not cheap, but you get more for your money at these premium prices.

Volkswagen has launched a heavily restyled Scirocco, though it maintains the original front-wheel drive chassis of the original 1974 MK1 Golf based model. The mechanical design and engines are very much the same as before, but the new bodyshell is substantially different. It has been criticised in some quarters as lacking the flair of its predecessor, as has the questionable ride quality.