**** Photos provided by the seller ****
Highlights
• Desirable 225 1.8t
• Mechanically fantastic
• Extensive expenditure in current ownership
The Background
Introduced in 1998 to worldwide critical acclaim from drivers and journalists alike, the first-generation Audi TT (Type 8N) was available as either a 2+2 coupé or two-seater roadster, based upon the ubiquitous VAG A-platform, with an option of either a 1.8t engine in various states of tune or a 3.2-litre VR6, with Tiptronic automatic, manual or - in the case of the V6 - DSG transmissions being offered.
For the four-cylinder, 1.8-litre turbocharged engine, two states of tune were offered, either the 180, with 178bhp, or the 225 which had an output of 222bhp, achieved by utilising a larger K04 turbocharger, second intercooler, different intake manifold and other small upgrades, enabling the engine to cope with the additional boost.
Naturally, there is hefty competition between enthusiasts as to whether the 225 or the VR6 is the subjectively ‘better’ car. If you’re firmly in the 225 camp, then you’re in the right place, as that’s exactly what we have here…
The History
First registered in 2002, this silver-over-black 1.8t 225 TT coupé was purchased by our vendor as part of their private collection in January 2018, and has since proven itself to be a reliable and engaging driver, whilst benefitting from significant expenditure on both preventative maintenance and considerate upgrades.
This particular example is also well-specified, featuring heated seats, a DAB bluetooth stereo and the apparently-rare OEM cup holder accessories.
Whilst in the current ownership, the car has had the catalytic converter replaced (using genuine VAG parts) in February 2018, a new turbocharger fitted in October 2018, and a full brake system overhaul and new anti-roll bar links fitted.
As any TT enthusiast or would-be-owner knows, changing the timing belt and water pump on these engines is crucial, and we’re pleased to report this example benefitted from this work at 85,000 miles.
Whilst largely original, the upgraded stereo is certainly a welcome addition, and this TT also benefits from uprated coil-over suspension, giving both a more sporting ride and also increasing its road-holding ability.
The Paperwork
Included with the car is all of the documentation for the above mentioned work (including the cam belt / water pump change) along with numerous invoices for various parts and maintenance, servicing receipts, and all MOTs dating back to 2005.
The Interior
Audi were known at the time for producing the best-quality interiors out of the big three VAG marques (Skoda/VW/Audi) at the time, and testament to this is just how well this TT’s interior has stood the test of time, both from an aesthetic and from a hard-wearing point of view.
The front seats sport the usual wear and light scuffs to the bases and bolsters, but there are no rips, tears or damage to the seats that we can see. In the rear, the seats have also held up fantastically, though this is likely due to minimal use.
The carpets all look to be in good order with only some light commensurate usage marks, with the same being true of the dashboard, door cards and high-traffic areas such as the steering wheel and shifter.
Looking closer, some of the plastic trims around the centre console, outer edges of the seat base, inner door sills and rear console would benefit from some TLC, but this is only a minor aesthetic issue.
According to our vendor, all systems are working correctly, with no instrument cluster or other electrical faults.
The Exterior
As with the interior, the bodywork design of the MK1 TT still looks absolutely fantastic to this day, with the family resemblance all the way to the current model being clear for all to see - an excellent sign of good design.
The bodywork on this particular example looks to be in good order, with no notable dents, scuffs or other trademark signs of impact damage.
Looking closer, there are a few typical age-related usage marks as you’d expect from a nigh-on 20-year-old car, whilst there are also a couple of more notable marks which have been detailed in the gallery below, though the silver paintwork goes a long way towards hiding these in day-to-day use.
All four wheels are in great order, though they are missing one of the Audi centre caps which should be a simple enough job to replace, should the next owner wish to do so.
The Mechanicals
Underneath the bonnet, the 1.8-litre engine looks to be in good order, though no doubt it would benefit from an afternoon with some trim dressing, metal polish and elbow grease at the hands of a fastidious owner.
Nonetheless, our vendor reports the car to be in “fantastic” mechanical shape, and there are no reported faults or issues with the engine, transmission or the Haldex system.
The most recent MOT took place on 09 September 2021, and resulted in a clean first-time pass with no advisory items.
The Appeal
A true cult-classic in its own right, the MK1 TT in both coupé and roadster form have been enjoying somewhat of a resurgence recently, thanks to plentiful parts, extensive knowledge bases and enthusiast ownership, whilst offering an engaging and enjoying driving experience without being too hardcore to use on a daily basis.
This particular 2002-registered example would make an excellent daily driver, and boasts the sought-after 225 engine, a strong specification and significant recent expenditure - what’s not to like?
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