TT Roadster a recipe for storming performance

When a 225bhp turbocharged engine combined with four-wheel drive is inserted into a compact roadster, a recipe for storming performance is surely created. It is. When the roadster is the minimalist Audi TT, then driving it should yield excitement. I was unsure of my expectations.

When the TT initially appeared as a concept, I was uncertain of its reception. I felt that it was perhaps too radical, excessively pared down and far too unusual in looks. I did not know whether I liked it or not. Events proved my conservatism wrong. Wherever I drove the TT Roadster drew it admiring looks and comments. Young and old alike loved it. I have come to admire it deeply, and also to respect those who designed it and approved its manufacture. Externally, its architecture is an elegantly simple statement.

Internally, its black and aluminium decor and furnishings combine with superb detailing to complement its form. Overall, it adheres to the philosophy of form following function.
It took time to adapt to the throw and the feel of the gear lever. Adapting, everything was slick and sweet. Swift changes were possible when the situation demanded.

Eventually, ringing up and down the gears was pleasure itself. I was puzzled by my apparent inability to hold the power on up-changes. I was missing something. Then I realised that I was ignoring the lag in the turbocharger, unlike the unvarying surge of the supercharger in my personal car. I learned.

I was fascinated by the creamy smoothness of the 1.8 litre engine, and its throaty growl under a heavy accelerator foot. It felt more like a six-cylinder power source. I applied the car to the challenges of minor mountain roads; no problem. It excelled. On familiar sweeping bends the four driving wheels imparted that extra security that fascinates. A giant magnet seemed to hold the car to the road.

The motorised soft roof retracts and encloses smoothly and effortlessly. At an out of doors social event, I was repeatedly requested to demonstrate it. The luggage boot drew comprehending smiles.

The notion of wind-in-the-hair driving once appealed to me. Perhaps our climate, or the intense matter of safety, deflected me. I have been indifferent to its attractions.

"We’ll put the roof down" I suggested tentatively to my wife. "Yes, why not." As we motored, the autumnal air gently caressed the top of my head. "You know, I think that this car is nicer with the roof down" my wife exclaimed. "It’s nice." I agreed - totally re-thinking my views on roadsters.

Yes, the rear spoiler and ESP have arrived. Air conditioning, leather and Alcantara upholstery, electric windows, radio CD player, 17" alloy wheels, xenon headlamps, immobiliser and rear wind deflector are among the features of this unique two seater. The price ex works is £42,600.00.

I could grow to love this car. It was just as well that it had to be returned. Days later, neighbours accost me to express their admiration for the car. "It was gorgeous”.

by Malachy Walsh