Find of the Day: A 1980 Audi 5000S Diesel With 67 Horsepower and a 5-Speed Manual

Audi has built some remarkable five-cylinder engines over the years. From the legendary turbocharged inline-five that powered the original quattro to the 394-horsepower engine in today’s RS 3, these powerplants have become an important part of the brand’s performance heritage. But not every five-cylinder Audi was built to go fast. In fact, this 1980 Audi 5000S Diesel currently listed on Bring a Trailer might be the perfect example of the opposite.

Under the hood sits a naturally aspirated 2.1-liter five-cylinder diesel producing a breathtaking 67 horsepower and 87 pound-feet of torque. All that power is sent to the front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. Let’s just say acceleration probably isn’t going to rearrange your internal organs. But that’s hardly the point of owning something like this.

The car is finished in Diamond Silver Metallic over a blue interior featuring vinyl upholstery with patterned cloth inserts. Equipment includes 14-inch alloy wheels, a power sunroof, cruise control, power windows, and a cassette stereo. There’s even a wooden shift knob, adding a little luxury to what would otherwise be a decidedly leisurely driving experience.

According to the listing, the Audi remained with a single family until 2026 and currently shows approximately 114,000 miles. That’s relatively modest mileage for a 46-year-old vehicle.

Recent maintenance is another encouraging sign. Since 2024, the car has reportedly received a replacement timing belt, idler pulley, water pump, front brake rotors and pads, and tires. The shift linkage bushings were also replaced in 2025.

Of course, perfection isn’t part of the deal. The seller notes oil leaks, a nonfunctioning horn, dim instrument lighting, and a broken right rear door handle.

Still, there’s something wonderfully appealing about an Audi from an era when diesel efficiency mattered more than Nürburgring lap times.

It certainly won’t be the fastest Audi at your next cars and coffee gathering. But there’s a good chance it’ll be the only one with 67 horsepower and a five-speed manual. And sometimes that’s more interesting than another 600-horsepower performance car. Bidding ends on Monday, November 9.

View the Bring a Trailer listing here.