Modifications for broader limits

Brochure adjustments

Discover Audi TT MK1 modifications that pushed boundaries after the fatal accidents in the first year — improved handling, greater stability, and smarter control for a safer drive.

By the end of 1999, 55,000 TTs had been delivered in Europe (and around 6,000 in the US), and sadly there had already been several fatalities (five known cases) involving drivers who lost control of their TTs at high speeds (above 180 km/h) due to the car's narrow limit range. Audi investigated a total of 55 accidents. A salient detail is that these accidents all took place in Germany. This forced Audi to modify the TT to make the high-speed limits broader and more recognisable.

From production week 50 in 1999, the TT was modified in three areas and there was also a phased recall to implement these modifications on TTs that had already been delivered.

What are the modifications?

Chassis
Different stabiliser bars (FWD front only and quattro front and rear) in combination with different wishbones on the front axle and stiffer shock absorbers at the front and rear. This should ensure better controllability at higher speeds.

Rear spoiler
The TT was fitted with a rear spoiler to increase downforce on the rear axle. This is the most distinctive modification, as the first TT had a characteristic rounded rear end with no interruption from the spoiler when viewed from the side.

ESP (Electronic Stability Programme)
In the event of instability and/or skidding, the ESP keeps the TT on course by selectively braking the individual wheels. The ESP uses wheel and steering wheel sensors to determine whether intervention is necessary. The intervention is a combination of traction control (ASR), anti-lock braking system (ABS) and engine management.

The modifications to TTs that had already been delivered were carried out in two phases.

First, the chassis and spoiler were modified for aerodynamics in all markets. This modification was carried out free of charge. For logistical reasons, this was done in two separate workshop appointments. First, the chassis was modified, and then the spoiler was fitted during the second appointment.
Later, in Germany (as it was only done at the factory in Ingolstadt), ESP was also part of a recall. Reportedly, the cost of this modification was €325. The offer to install ESP on existing TTs was made after the accident involving Peter Hommel (East German rally driver).

This action is reported to have cost Audi a total of €75 million.

The effect of the spoiler
In conversations with enthusiasts and experts, it is sometimes suggested that the spoiler mainly served a marketing purpose. With it, Audi visually demonstrated that it had addressed the problem. However, a CFD analysis shows that the spoiler did indeed increase downforce and reduce lift at the rear.

You still see first-generation TTs that lack one or more modifications. In addition, there are purists who remove the spoiler from their TTs from 2000 or later. This is mainly because the owner did not/does not like the spoiler aesthetically and wants the original lines.