5-seater 2-door saloon, 4-door saloon, 5-door estate.

New generation medium-size Audis, with similar layout and body structure to first-generation VW Passat, including Audi-designed ohc engines. Audi announced before VW, featuring MacPherson strut front-drive, in-line engine layout, and dead rear axle. No mechanical connection with any previous Audi car, though all subsequent 80s and Coupés evolved from it. Replaced by next generation 80 after six years.