We’ve written about the little Audi A1 pocket rocket in the past and the idea of of a luxury vehicle in a compact size is fine by us. Unfortunately, the Audi A1 is not available here on the North American shores. Perhaps they’ll bring it eventually since the sales of small cars are on the rise and have been for a number of years now thanks to the bloody gasoline prices. Europeans even get the sporty S1 pumping out 227 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The standard Audi A1 produces 256 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. So the S1 has less horse power but the increase in torque makes it more a beast.
Regardless of the numbers, the guys over at ABT of Germany didn’t think these numbers were good enough and took things into their own hands. Although the 227hp and 273 lb-ft of torque is plenty for the average consumer, we always want more and the ABT delivered.
Their kit for the Audi S1 increases the four-cylinder 2.0-liter turbocharged engine’s output to an impressive 306 horsepower and pushes the peak torque to a monstrous 324 lb-ft. In such a tiny car, these numbers make a huge difference in how it drives. The German tuner didn’t exactly release details on how the Audi S1’s acceleration times have improved but the 0-60mph dash should be significantly better than the stock S1’s 5.8 seconds.
Along with the modifications to the engine and ECU mapping, ABT also upgraded the suspension kit which lowers the vehicle ride height by 1.18-inches (30mm) and is said to improve the handling. The new 18-inch allow wheels should also help and are available in either gunmetal gray or matte titanium which are wrapped in 225/35 performance tires.
Other visual modifications include ABT floor mats, interior lighting package, ABT fender inserts, and ABT logos/decals on the vehicle.
