Euro NCAP crash test: Audi TT 8N Roadster

The Audi TT 8N Roadster is best known for its timeless design and sporty character. But just how safe was this open-top sports car? In 2003, the Roadster underwent crash testing by Euro NCAP. The tests assessed the protection of occupants in various collisions, as well as the impact on pedestrians. The results show where the TT protects its occupants well, but also where the design’s limitations lie.

The test: open and closed

In the frontal impact test, the TT was tested with the soft top down. This was a deliberate choice to simulate an unfavourable scenario for the open-top sports car. In the side impact test, however, the soft top was up. The tests assessed occupant protection in various situations. In doing so, Euro NCAP looked not only at the strength of the bodywork, but also at the performance of the airbags and seatbelts, and the risk of injury.

Frontal offset crashtest: a stable body structure

In the frontal offset crashtest, the airbags provided protection for the driver’s head. The bodywork also remained sufficiently stable despite the impact. However, deformation of the sill was visible. The forces acting on the seat belts were relatively high. In addition, there was a risk of leg injuries for both the driver and the passenger from components around the steering column and the dashboard. The test thus demonstrated that a stable bodywork does not automatically mean that all parts of the body are adequately protected.

Side impact crashtest: focus on the chest

In the side impact test, which assessed protection against a collision with a pole, there were also areas for concern. The side airbag appeared to deploy relatively late. The question also arose as to whether taller occupants would receive adequate protection.
Furthermore, a certain risk of chest injury was identified. In a compact sports car such as the TT, the space available between the occupant and the outside of the car is particularly limited. The proper functioning of the side airbags therefore plays a crucial role.

The rating: four stars, but not suitable for pedestrians

The Audi TT 8N Roadster scored 28 points for adult occupant protection, earning it four stars in the Euro NCAP assessment at the time. The score comprised 12 points for the frontal impact, 15 points for the side impact and 1 point for the pole test. The result for pedestrian protection was considerably less positive. The TT scored no points and therefore received no stars for pedestrian protection. According to the test, the front of the car offered insufficient protection in the event of a collision.

The crash test makes it clear that, for its time, the TT 8N offered decent protection for adult occupants, but certainly did not excel in every respect. It is important to bear in mind that safety requirements and test methods have changed considerably since 2003. The results are therefore particularly interesting as a snapshot of the safety of this generation of the Audi TT.

Crashtest footage

Warning: the crash test footage may be disturbing.

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