Audi 80 Quiz
Engines

Rated and maximum engine speed

In this manual: Engines
Technical Description — 39Engines — 41Exhaust System — 13Cooling System — 28Fuel tank and fuel pump — 12Air Filter and Intake Ducts — 13Mono-Motronic Injection System — 18Digifant Injection System — 19KE-III-Jetronic Injection System — 35MPI and MPFI Injection Systems — 32Clutch — 11Transmission and Driveline — 21Suspension and Steering — 33Brake System — 41Anti-lock brake system — 8Wheels and Tires — 13Body Electrical System — 35Ignition System — 24Lighting — 14Signaling Devices — 7Instruments and Auxiliary Equipment — 54Heating and Ventilation — 7Body Components — 18Troubleshooting — 6Specifications — 13
~1min read

An internal combustion engine reaches its maximum output at a certain engine speed, the so-called rated engine speed. Revving above this speed gives no gain in output. It can only be useful for shifting into the next higher gear.


Our engines can well be described as tolerant of high engine speeds. The valves are actuated by bucket tappets directly from the overhead camshaft. Only small masses are moved, which allows high engine speeds to be reached without risk to the valve train.


Engine speed may be increased to approximately 6300 rpm, but only briefly. The engine then noticeably 'roars', which is caused by vibrations of the crankshaft in its bearings.

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A quick Audi 80 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.