A Rally Legend Reimagined
A German company, HSR Manufaktur, has revealed the Type 859, a stunning tribute to the iconic Audi Sport Quattro from 1984. This isn't just a restoration; it's a complete re-engineering—a 'restomod'. The process starts with a period-correct Audi Coupe
B2 donor chassis, which is then shortened and reinforced with an integrated roll cage. To improve on the original's sometimes-tricky high-speed stability, the wheelbase is slightly stretched. The entire car is then wrapped in lightweight carbon fiber panels, bringing its total weight down to a reported 1,200 kg.
The Heart of the Beast
The soul of any Audi Quattro is its five-cylinder engine, and HSR has honored that legacy by using a modern version. They've taken the 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder DAZA engine, famous from the previous-generation Audi RS3, and thoroughly upgraded it. With forged internals and a motorsport-spec dry-sump system, the engine's output is driver-selectable, ranging from 500 to 600 horsepower. This power is sent through a reinforced six-speed manual gearbox, borrowed from an Audi S4, to all four wheels, ensuring the all-wheel-drive grip that made the original a legend.
The Unforgettable Five-Cylinder Legacy
Audi first introduced a five-cylinder engine in 1976 in the Audi 100 as a way to create more power than a four-cylinder without the space requirements of a six-cylinder. But it was in the 1980s that the engine became a motorsport icon. Paired with turbocharging and Quattro all-wheel drive, it powered the Audi Sport Quattro through the formidable Group B rally era. The engine's unique 1-2-4-5-3 firing order created a distinctive, warbling sound that echoed through rally stages across the world, piloted by legends like Hannu Mikkola and Stig Blomqvist. In its ultimate evolution, the Group B rally car was producing upwards of 590 horsepower.
Modern Engineering Meets Classic Design
The HSR Type 859 is more than just a powerful engine in a classic shape. The company has focused on creating a complete performance package. The car features an active multi-valve coilover suspension with adjustable ride height, allowing it to be tuned for different conditions. To handle the immense power, it is fitted with carbon-ceramic brakes. While the exterior is a faithful, aggressive evolution of the Sport Quattro's iconic lines, the entire project is a showcase of modern boutique manufacturing, blending advanced materials and engineering with a deep respect for automotive history. The power-to-weight ratio is claimed to be better than that of a Ferrari SF90.
Exclusivity at a Price
As a nod to the original car's dominant year in rallying, HSR Manufaktur plans to build only 84 examples of the Type 859. This level of bespoke engineering and performance comes at a significant cost. Pricing starts at the equivalent of over $570,000, which places it firmly in the realm of supercar collectors and dedicated enthusiasts. The project taps into a growing trend of high-end restomods, where classic cars are reborn with modern performance, reliability, and technology, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and exhilarating driving dynamics.
