A limited edition DTM-inspired Audi A4 saloon has been unveiled to celebrate the manufacturer's triumphant first season in the racing series, where it took top honours in all the categories.

A limited edition DTM-inspired Audi A4 saloon has been unveiled to celebrate the manufacturer's triumphant first season in the racing series, where it took top honours in all the categories.

In its début DTM season, the Ingolstadt-based team won all three categories when Mattias Ekstroem secured the driver's title, tuning house Abt won the team championship and Audi won the manufacturer's title.

In celebration, the company has launched a DTM version of the A4 with a new 2,0-litre turbocharged FSI engine. Positioned between the standard A4 and sporty S4, maximum power is quoted at 164 kW and peak torque is 300 N.m. The special edition has been further developed by quattro GmbH.

Similar to the S4, the DTM chassis has been lowered by 20 millimetres using shorter, firmer springs. New 18-inch multi-spoke wheels are borrowed directly from the racing car and its front brakes are drilled too.

On the surface, the A4 is distinguished by DTM insignia adorning the car's rear and sides. The large grille, bumpers and side mirrors are finished in phantom black. Additional air intakes are visible at the front and rear while the new rear bumper and carbon fibre spoiler help differentiate the DTM.

Inside, the door sills and floor mats include the DTM logo and silver piping. Alcantara leather covers the three-spoke steering wheel, gearshift, handbrake lever and Recaro sport seats. Carbon fibre interior trim is also borrowed from the S4.

The DTM version comes standard with xenon lights, automatic climate control, front, side and head airbags and the latest version of ESP.

The special edition will go on sale at the start of next year's DTM season. Meanwhile, the facelifted version of the A4, first shown at the Paris Motor Show will go on sale in South Africa at the end of the first quarter of 2005.

Original article from Car