Audi Quattro De Paoli Paris – Dakar 1986

An incredible vehicle born from Italian engineering genius.

This first prototype was developed by Franco De Paoli, founder of the eponymous racing team, at his Personal Car Center in Buccinasco in 1985.

The car was designed from scratch to compete in the grueling Paris-Dakar Rally: key features such as reliability, low weight, accessibility, ease of service, comfort, and drivability were taken into account. A Range Rover-derived chassis was used, with a short rear overhang and reinforcements at the suspension mounting points; the rigid axle was retained, adding traction points and a Panhard rod to the rear axle. An integrated rollbar was installed to protect the passenger compartment. The fiberglass and Kevlar body is bolted to the chassis with rubber pads to absorb impacts; the front and rear hoods are designed to facilitate access to mechanical parts in the event of a breakdown or accident; the seats are Sparco anatomical. The engine is the classic Rover 3.5-liter V8, boosted to 230 hp at 5,400 rpm. The engine’s position allowed for a 50/50 weight distribution across both axles. The top speed is close to 200 km/h. The fuel system, exhaust system, and transmission (including gearbox, clutch, propeller shafts, and joints) have been extensively modified. The cooling system has been upgraded with a new heat exchanger that allows for the correct engine/gearbox oil temperature under all conditions. The most significant innovation is the self-leveling air suspension system designed by De’ Paoli himself. Four air springs replace the coil springs and are connected to a power circuit controlled by the navigator. An electric compressor supplies the desired amount and pressure of air; each axle is equipped with a leveler that determines the air intake and exhaust in the system based on the car’s trim. Via a control on the dashboard, the navigator can intervene manually if desired. Behind the seats is a 450-liter fuel tank that allows a range of over 1,000 km based on a consumption of 20-30 liters per 100 km. The cost at the time reached 200 million lire with all the options. The first prototype participated in the Paris-Dakar Rally in 1986; upon its return, De’ Paoli made some modifications, adding fiberglass doors, a new dashboard, and a new front hood, and participated in the Atlas Rally and the Paris-Dakar Rally in 1987 with this new, updated version (prototype 2). In total, four prototypes were produced. After the Dakar, the car was sold to a Frenchman. The current owner purchased it from the second owner and began a thorough restoration to bring it back to its former glory with the help of Franco De Paoli; During the fully documented process, the car was completely dismantled and reassembled, every detail restored and brought to the condition required for participation in the first Paris-Dakar Rally in 1986.

An incredible piece of Italian history for true enthusiasts and collectors, but also an object capable of thrilling racing action today as it did then.

The car can be viewed exclusively by appointment in our shoowroom. Thanks to our technical assistance and restoration garage it is possible to inspect it with our professionals, who will be able to provide any technical detail