2001 Audi TT Quattro 225bhp Convertible – only 44,400 miles, sought after BAM code engine & rare Imola Yellow

A gorgeous low-mileage example of Audi’s design classic, in a striking colour scheme

Year: 2001
Model: TT Quattro 225
Mileage: 44,417
Registration: Y281LNF
MOT: will be supplied with 12 months MOT

Highlights
● Sought after BAM code engine
● Quattro all-wheel-drive system
● Genuine low mileage
● Full service history

First shown at the 1995 Frankfurt Motor Show as a concept car, in 1998 the TT was launched as a production model and was near identical to the show car. It’s neat, modern proportions have aged incredibly well – in fact most car journalists and experts in the field will tell you that the TT is an all-time design classic, sure to be heralded as one of the greatest cars of the 90s.

Now in it’s third generation, and available with a variety of drivetrains and as a coupé or convertible, there’s a TT to suit every taste. However, we reckon this is the one to get – a manual transmission Mk1 with the highly desirable ‘BAM’ engine which pushes a healthy 225bhp to all four wheels. It’s an absolute, nailed-on, stone-cold classic.

Exterior

● Rare optional Imola Yellow paintwork
● Contrast black fabric roof
● Original 9-spoke Audi alloy wheels

Resplendent in its original Imola Yellow paintwork (which was an expensive and rare optional extra), this TT is one of the best examples you’ll see. Every inch of the pristine bodywork shows that this is a genuine low-mileage car, and has clearly been exceptionally well cared for.

The 9-spoke allows are in near perfect condition, while all of the external trim is present and correct and in similarly excellent condition. Even the fabric convertible roof – the one place a roadster nearly always shows its age – looks practically brand new, with no rips or evidence of UV damage. Underneath the car is similarly clean, straight and honest. All of the glass, lights and badges are in great condition too – even the red edging remains on the rear TT badge, which is notorious for quickly wearing off.

We’ve seen a lot of Mk1 TTs over the years, but we’ve rarely seen one in such fine fettle as this. With a good polish, that paintwork is going to look incredible in the summer sunshine.

Interior

● Black leather sports seats
● Grey fitted mats
● Spacesaver spare

One of the areas where the TT was leagues ahead of competitors at the time was in the design and quality of the cabin. The materials and fitment are still way ahead of many modern cars, and the design is still modern, fresh and clean.

In this car, the leather sports seats are in excellent condition, with no significant signs of wear, even on the bolsters and seat bases. The dash, door cards, carpets, headlining and switchgear are all likewise in excellent condition and contribute to a real air of quality in the cabin. All of the functions and ancillaries work perfectly too – it really is a peach of a car.

Mechanicals

● BAM code 1.8 Turbo 20v
● 6-speed manual transmission
● Quattro 4WD Haldex system

If you’re going to buy a TT, then this is the drivetrain you want: the BAM engine delivers a mightily healthy 225bhp and 280Nm to all four wheels here. It’s a legendarily robust and reliable engine, and mated with the 6-speed manual, it provides a thrilling and punchy driving experience.

The 6-speed gearbox is definitely the one you want too, it’s much stronger and more reliable than the 5-speed box that Audi put in the 180bhp models. This drivetrain really is very sweet, having been well maintained, serviced fastidiously and truly cared for – and that comes through in the way it drives. There are many TTs on the market at any one time, but we really don’t think you’ll find another in such good condition as this.

Paperwork

● First registered in August 2001
● 6 Owners from new
● Current owner since April 2017
● Current V5
● Original handbook
● Service record to 43,198 miles / June 2020

Summary

We talk about design classics in the car world a lot. but in reality, very few cars really are ground-breaking, classic designs that stand the test of time. The Mk1 TT is one of the few cars that really is. It was a complete breath of fresh air when it arrived in the late 90s, no one could quite believe that Audi had actually built a concept car for the road. Of course, the real acid test is whether a car stands the test of time, and the TT truly has. It’s widely regarded as one of the finest things to ever have come out of Ingolstadt.

This particular car makes a compelling case for itself too. Genuine low mileage, great service history, a rare colourway and great specification combine to make this a very desirable little sports car. Whether you want an eye-catching daily, a fun roadster for the weekends or a modern classic to cherish and take to shows, this gorgeous little ray of sunshine is just the ticket.