Germany
Audi has re-entered the coupe market with its dramatic-looking TT 2+2 coupe and two-seater roadster. It is almost identical to the wild-looking show car which debuted back in 1994 as a concept vehicle. Quattro four-wheel drive comes as standard on all models, giving excellent roadholding. The turbocharged 1.8 20-valve entry-level engine produces 180 bhp and propels the car to well over 130 mph, while the twin-turbo 225 bhp version offers superb performance and can touch 150 mph. It is quite impossible to believe that this car shares its running gear with the humble likes of the Škoda Octavia.
With interest in retro-styled cars booming worldwide, Volkswagen has hit out by launching an entirely new version of its classic Volkswagen Beetle. The original 1937 version will be continuing in Mexico for a few years yet, but the new Golf-based version has already generated a massive waiting list. Powered by 2.0 petrol and 1.9 turbo-diesel engines, it has the look of the its legendary predecessor but is a far more expensive and accomplished machine. UK sales are set to begin next year, though right-hand drive versions are not due until the year 2000. The engine range is expected to be widened in the future, as well as open top versions being added.
For buyers wanting something more practical, Volkswagen has launched a saloon version of its fourth generation Golf. The Volkswagen Bora is a stylish four-door saloon which is more of a car in its own right, and is visually similar to the slightly larger Passat. It is also more competitively priced than a Passat, and is only marginally more expensive than the Golf itself. UK sales begin in March 1999, with 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0 four-cylinder and 2.3 V5 petrol engines available as well as a 1.9 turbo-diesel.
At the luxury car end of the market, Mercedes-Benz has launched a sleek, all-new S Class which sets standards in its sector for refinement, luxury and specification. The new car is quickly drawing praise from all around the world thanks to its irresistible qualities.
Read more about this topic: 1998 In Motoring
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—Franklin D. Roosevelt (1882–1945)
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—Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)