Today, though, quattro is Audi's name for it's all-wheel-drive system which is fitted to a wide variety of models.

The TT is included in Audi's selection of models available with the 'quattro'. So the question is .... does the TT add interest to the quattro or does the quattro system add interest to the TT?

Simple question really, because there is a simple answer. Both the TT coupe and the quattro drive system are highly respected and the two complement each other admirably.

Firstly, the TT coupe, which will be replaced next week by the new, second-generation, TT coupe at the Sydney Motor Show, was first released in Australia in mid-1999. The eye catching first generation TT demonstrated that Audi could do more than manufacture great saloons (with coupe and wagon variants). The TT took Audi into the sports car market. And what a great move. Over the years Audi has sold more than 270,000 TTs worldwide. That is success in anyone's language. Clearly, the little TT (it is just a little over 4 metres long) has the ability to move many a unit from the showroom floor.

The test car was the top-of-the-line TT, the 3.2 quattro. This model is fitted with a 3.2 litre V6 which provides 184 kW of power at 6,300 rpm and a favourable 320 Nm of torque at 2,800-3,200 rpm. The little TT coupe can almost fly. When driving by the seat of your pants, you get a thrill a minute if you use the 3.2's very capable performance characteristics, which are significantly enhanced by the presence of the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. Those performance attributes are readily available with every turn of the steering wheel and with every change of gear and with every depression of the accelerator. Let me withdraw that last suggestion. There is no depression at all when you drive an Audi TT 3.2 quattro (tongue in cheek here)!

To drive this car in the spirit of it's design, we headed to the NSW central coast. There we drove the Pacific Highway around Calga and environs. The suspension, the handling, the steering and, most importantly, the braking were all tested in our traditional manner (which is always legal) and the TT proved well beyond any reasonable doubt that this car can hold it's own against any competition. The car has surplus driving qualities.

As expected in an Audi, the comfort level for both the driver and the passenger was excellent. It is particularly easy to feel right at home in an Audi TT.

Of course, the comfort level is enhanced by the leather trim and the roomy upfront area. The luggage area is the biggest surprise. Being a sports car, immediate expectations suggest there will be minimal luggage space. But not so, the TT provides space so you can enjoy those weekends away. The temptation here, though, is that the driving characteristics will motivate you to want to enjoy the weekend away .... every weekend!

So was there a flaw with the Audi TT 3.2 quattro? No, not a one! It did the job of a sports car in a particularly pleasing manner.

However, there is just one more point to raise. The exhaust note .... if you enjoy exhaust notes, then there is another reason to enjoy the TT 3.2 quattro. The exhaust sang my tune and it will probably sing yours too!

The price for the Audi TT 3.2 quattro is $95,800 (RRP). This price may seem somewhat high. But look at the price of the competitors, which include the highly satisfying Lotus Elise/Exige, the Porsche Boxster and the toy-like Mercedes-Benz SLK. And there is also the American made and what I consider to be over-rated BMW Z4. Now it is becoming clear why the TT has been so successful for Audi. Of course, we're looking at the top TT, there are other models in the TT line-up too.

But the TT isn't about price, it is all about driving enjoyment. And one aspect is clearer that all others .... the more you drive the TT, the more you enjoy the TT! Simple really.

A new model TT is now due. In fact you'll be able to see it soon. Following the delight provided by the outgoing model, you can be sure many folks will be attending their local Audi showroom once distribution of the new model is underway.

And that is very easy to understand. Simple really!