Hey guys! Ever dreamed of diving headfirst into a classic car restoration project? Well, buckle up, because today we're talking about something truly special: the 1987 Audi Coupe GT Special Build. This isn't just any old car; it's a piece of automotive history, a blend of sleek design, and the raw driving experience that made Audi a legend. If you're passionate about cars and have a soft spot for vintage beauties, then you're in for a treat. This guide will walk you through everything, from finding a project car to the final touches that'll make your '87 Coupe GT the envy of every car enthusiast. This restoration is more than just fixing up an old car; it's about preserving a legacy and experiencing the thrill of bringing a classic back to life. So, whether you're a seasoned mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, let's get started on this awesome journey!

Unveiling the 1987 Audi Coupe GT

Let's kick things off with a little history, shall we? The 1987 Audi Coupe GT represents a pivotal moment for Audi, a time when the brand was solidifying its reputation for innovative engineering and sophisticated design. This car was a statement, a bold declaration of Audi's commitment to performance and style. It stood out with its sharp lines, aerodynamic profile, and the distinctive Audi grille that quickly became a signature. Under the hood, the Coupe GT boasted a robust engine, often a 2.2-liter inline-five, known for its smooth power delivery and iconic sound. The interior was a blend of comfort and functionality, featuring high-quality materials and a driver-focused layout. The Coupe GT was also ahead of its time with features like power windows, central locking, and available options like sunroofs and upgraded sound systems, adding a touch of luxury to its sporty character. Owning a 1987 Audi Coupe GT is like having a piece of automotive art. It's a car that turns heads, sparks conversations, and offers a driving experience that’s both engaging and rewarding. This car is also a testament to Audi’s engineering prowess, with its advanced suspension and drivetrain. Finding a Coupe GT in good condition might be a challenge, but that's where the thrill begins. You'll be searching for a car that has potential, a car that you can pour your heart and soul into. Finding the right car is super important, it is the cornerstone of your restoration project. You'll want to carefully examine the car, inspecting the body, and checking for rust, damage, and prior modifications. Taking your time during this process is crucial as it sets the stage for a successful restoration.

Why Choose the '87 Coupe GT?

So, why the 1987 Audi Coupe GT? What makes it so special that it's worth restoring? Well, there are several reasons. Firstly, its timeless design. This car has aged beautifully. Secondly, its driving experience. The Coupe GT is fun to drive, offering a great balance of performance and handling. Then we have the historical significance. This car represents an important era for Audi. It's a reminder of Audi's engineering achievements and its evolution into a leading automotive brand. Plus, there's the satisfaction of bringing a classic car back to its former glory. There's nothing quite like the feeling of driving a car you've personally restored, knowing you've poured your time, effort, and passion into every detail. This project is a chance to learn, grow, and become a part of the classic car community. It’s also an investment. Restored classic cars often appreciate in value. Choosing the '87 Coupe GT means you're not just restoring a car; you're joining a community of enthusiasts who share your passion for this iconic model. This car has a lot of history and character. Every scratch, every dent, and every modification tells a story. When you restore the car, you get to become a part of its story. This project is also a great learning experience. You’ll become familiar with the inner workings of an automobile, and that's something that can stay with you forever.

The Special Build: Planning Your Restoration

Okay, before you jump in, let’s talk about planning your restoration. This is where the 'Special Build' part comes in. We're not just aiming for a basic restoration; we're crafting a unique car that reflects your personal style and preferences. First things first: assess the car's condition. Thoroughly inspect the body for rust, dents, and any signs of prior damage. Check the engine and transmission for their overall health, looking for leaks, strange noises, or any performance issues. Look over the interior for wear and tear, and consider the condition of the electrical systems. Now, let’s talk budget. Be realistic about your spending. Restoration costs can quickly add up, so it's essential to set a budget. Research the prices of parts, and consider potential unexpected costs. Think about your goals. What do you want to achieve with this restoration? Are you aiming for a concours-level restoration, a period-correct build, or something more customized? This vision will guide your decisions throughout the project. Next up, you will want to create a detailed plan. This is a step-by-step process outlining the tasks. Start by listing everything that needs to be done. Break down the project into manageable phases: bodywork, engine, interior, and electrical. Create a timeline and set realistic deadlines. Now, let's talk about the unique elements of your 'Special Build'. This is where you get to let your creativity shine! Consider modifications like engine upgrades, suspension enhancements, or custom interior work. These are small touches that set your car apart. Source the parts. Find reliable suppliers for parts. Research the availability and cost of parts, both new and used. This research is a must for successful completion of the restoration. Also, you may want to start looking into the right tools and equipment. The appropriate tools and equipment are essential for a smooth restoration process. Invest in quality tools to make the job easier and safer. Don't forget documentation. Document your progress. Keep records of your work, take photos, and make notes. This documentation will be invaluable as you work. This is the cornerstone of your restoration project. Getting organized will greatly help your success.

Choosing Your Restoration Style

Your 'Special Build' style is all about choices. Do you want to go for a factory-fresh restoration, ensuring every detail matches the original specifications? Or, do you want a restomod, blending classic aesthetics with modern performance upgrades? This is a popular choice. The possibilities are endless. Consider a custom build with unique paint colors, interior designs, or performance modifications. Your car can reflect your unique personality. This is your chance to experiment and to find unique and new solutions. Let’s talk about a concours restoration. It aims for authenticity. This is where you want to reproduce the car exactly as it rolled off the assembly line. This option is great for collectors. Now let's talk about restomods. This is a very common approach, this is where you can combine classic looks with modern performance. This approach includes engine upgrades, suspension modifications, and enhanced braking systems. It is also an excellent option if you are aiming for practicality. Or, you can choose a custom build. It is where your imagination takes over. This involves unique paint schemes, custom interiors, and unique body modifications. It's all about making your Audi Coupe GT stand out. It’s important to research the available options for each style. Read up on what other enthusiasts have done, and explore online forums and communities. Your project is your masterpiece. Your choices define your car. Embrace the freedom and enjoy the journey.

Body and Exterior Restoration: Bringing the Beauty Back

Let’s get our hands dirty with the body and exterior restoration of your 1987 Audi Coupe GT. First, you need to strip the car down. Remove all exterior components, including lights, trim, bumpers, and glass. This step is essential for accessing the body and preparing it for restoration. Now, let's tackle rust repair. If you are lucky, your car has very little rust. But, if it does, it's very important to address it right away. Cut out and replace rusted panels, or repair them with welding. Use rust inhibitors to prevent future corrosion. Next, you need to address the dents and imperfections. Smooth out any dents and imperfections in the body using body filler and sanding. Achieving a smooth, flawless surface is key for a great paint job. Prep the body. Prepare the body for paint by sanding and priming. Make sure the surface is clean and free of contaminants. Choose a paint scheme. Now, it is time to choose your paint. You can go with the original color, or choose a custom color that reflects your style. Apply the paint. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the paint. Multiple coats may be required. Once the paint is dry, you will want to reassemble your car. Reinstall all the exterior components. This includes the lights, trim, bumpers, and glass. Remember the small details. Focus on the details, like replacing worn weather stripping, and restoring or replacing trim. These details make a huge difference in the overall look. The body and exterior restoration is a super important process. This process sets the stage for the beauty and the final look of your car.

Rust Repair and Bodywork

Rust is the enemy of any classic car, so tackling it is essential. You'll need to remove the rusted sections, which will most likely include cutting them out and welding in new panels. Remember safety first. Use proper safety gear when welding and grinding. After welding, grind down the welds, and smooth out any imperfections. Now, let’s talk about bodywork. Use body filler to smooth out dents and imperfections. Apply it in thin layers, and sand it down. Now, time to start prepping for paint. The goal is to create a flawless surface. If your car has a lot of dents, it might be a good idea to consider having a professional complete this work. This process can be very time-consuming and may require skill. Take your time, and be patient. Bodywork is a labor of love. The better your prep work, the better the final finish will be.

Engine and Mechanical Restoration: Breathing Life into the Heart

Let's get into the engine and mechanical restoration of your 1987 Audi Coupe GT. First, you need to remove the engine. Carefully remove the engine from the car. Support the engine, and then inspect it. Disassemble the engine. Take apart the engine and inspect all of its components. This will show you exactly what condition the engine is in. Overhaul the engine. Rebuild or replace any worn or damaged components. Now, let's talk about the cylinder head. Inspect the cylinder head, and service or replace it as necessary. Rebuild the bottom end. Inspect the block, crankshaft, connecting rods, and pistons. Rebuild these components, or replace them. Now, you need to source the parts. Use high-quality parts for your engine rebuild. Ensure everything aligns with the original specifications or your desired upgrades. Reassemble the engine. Carefully reassemble the engine, ensuring everything is properly torqued. Now, you need to test the engine. Start the engine, and check for leaks, and ensure smooth operation. Now, let's talk about the transmission. Inspect the transmission and rebuild or replace it if necessary. Now, let's talk about the suspension. Replace the shocks, struts, and bushings. This will ensure great handling and ride quality. Now, for the brakes. Inspect the brakes, and replace pads, rotors, and calipers as needed. All of these components are very important, and need to work well for you to have a safe, and smooth ride. The engine and mechanical restoration is a very important part of the whole process. These components ensure the car will be able to perform.

Engine Rebuild and Upgrades

Now, let’s dive into the engine rebuild and upgrades for your 1987 Audi Coupe GT. You need to decide whether you want to stick with the original engine, or upgrade it. If you decide to upgrade it, you can increase horsepower and improve performance. Consider performance upgrades like a new camshaft, or larger injectors. Ensure these upgrades are compatible with your car's engine. If you are sticking with the original engine, you can improve its performance. Start by disassembling the engine. Clean and inspect all components. Replace worn or damaged parts. Rebuild the engine. Rebuild the engine using quality parts. Pay attention to precision and detail. Now, let's talk about the cooling system. Make sure the cooling system is working correctly. Replace the water pump, thermostat, and hoses. Now for the exhaust system. Upgrade the exhaust system for improved performance. Remember to research the best parts, and upgrades to ensure you get the best outcome. All of these factors can greatly improve the performance of your car, and ensure a long life.

Interior Restoration: Crafting a Comfortable Cabin

Now, let's work on the interior restoration of your 1987 Audi Coupe GT. First, you need to remove the interior components. Remove the seats, carpets, headliner, door panels, and dashboard. Clean and assess the interior. Carefully inspect all the components for wear and tear. You can replace, repair, or restore the components. Now, let’s talk about the seats. Restore or replace the seats. This includes the upholstery, padding, and frames. Next up, you will want to install new carpets. Replace the carpets with new ones. Make sure they fit perfectly. Now, you will work on the door panels. Restore the door panels. Repair or replace any damaged parts. Now, for the headliner. Replace the headliner. Make sure it is installed correctly. Now, for the dashboard. Restore or replace the dashboard. You can also customize your dashboard. Now, for the gauges. Restore or replace the gauges. Make sure all of the gauges are functional. Now for the sound system. You can upgrade your sound system. Replace the speakers, head unit, and wiring. This will give you a great sound experience. Add the finishing touches. Focus on the details. Add new trim, or other accessories. You can create a luxurious or sporty feel, depending on the look you want. The interior restoration is very rewarding. It can totally transform the driving experience.

Seat and Upholstery Refurbishing

Let’s focus on the seats and upholstery. Start by removing the seats from the car. Disassemble the seats, and remove the old upholstery. Clean the frames and inspect them for damage. Replace any damaged components. Now, you will want to replace the upholstery. Reupholster the seats with new materials. Consider using leather, vinyl, or fabric. Choose a material that matches your style. Now, you will want to add the padding. Replace or add new padding to restore the comfort of the seats. Now, for the details. Pay attention to the details. Ensure the upholstery is fitted correctly. Now, you can reassemble the seats. Once all of the steps are completed, you will have a beautiful finish. This can make the interior look awesome.

Electrical System and Wiring: Modernizing the Electronics

Now, let's get into the electrical system and wiring of your 1987 Audi Coupe GT. First, you need to inspect the wiring. Inspect the wiring for damage, corrosion, or wear. Clean the connections. Clean all of the connections. Replace any damaged wires. Now, you will want to test the components. Test all electrical components. Ensure everything is working. Consider upgrading the electrical system. Now, let's talk about the lights. Replace the headlights, taillights, and other lights. Modernize the lighting. Consider modern LED lights for enhanced visibility. Now, you can add new accessories. You can add modern accessories. Install new features like a new sound system, or a GPS system. Wiring can be challenging, so you want to work safely. All of these components are very important, and need to work well for you to have a safe ride. The electrical system and wiring is a very important part of the whole process.

Troubleshooting and Upgrades

Now, let’s talk about troubleshooting and upgrades. Start by troubleshooting electrical issues. Use a multimeter to locate electrical faults. Repair any wiring problems. Now, you can upgrade the electrical system. Consider upgrading the wiring harness for improved reliability. Upgrade your car's electrical system with modern components. Now, for the lighting. Replace the old lighting with new LED lights. These lights can greatly improve your visibility. This step is super important, especially if you drive at night. Now, you can install new accessories. Add new accessories to enhance the car's features. This will add to your car's functionality. This is a very important part of the restoration. All of these components need to be safe, reliable, and functional. It is an essential step.

Final Touches and Finishing Up

After all of that, you are almost done! Now you are working on the final touches and finishing your 1987 Audi Coupe GT restoration. This is where you can install any remaining trim, moldings, and badges. Polish and wax the car. This will provide a nice shine and protect the paint. Detail the interior. Vacuum and clean the interior. Ensure everything is super clean. This step is very important. Now, you can start the engine. Once everything is done, you can start the engine. Take it for a test drive. Drive the car. Ensure everything works well. Correct any issues. Go back and fix any issues that were found during the test drive. Celebrate your achievement. This is the fun part. All of your hard work has paid off. Share your project. Share your project with other enthusiasts. This is very important. All of these components are very important. The final steps can bring your vision into reality.

The Joy of Completion

After all of your hard work, you're almost there. Now, celebrate your accomplishment, and enjoy the car. It is great to see the car come to life. Share your project with other enthusiasts. Enjoy your work, and your new car. This is something that you will always remember.

Maintaining Your Restored Audi Coupe GT

Maintaining your restored 1987 Audi Coupe GT is key. Perform regular maintenance. This ensures your car is always in top condition. Change the oil and filters regularly. This is super important. Check the fluids. Regularly check the fluids. Check the tires. Rotate your tires. Clean and protect the car. Wash the car regularly. Protect your investment.

Regular Maintenance and Care

Here’s how to do regular maintenance. Start by changing your oil regularly. Use high-quality oil. Keep all your components clean. This is super important. Protect your investment. Proper care can add to the life of your car. Keep your car in tip-top shape. This can greatly increase the life of your car. By following these steps, you can greatly increase the life of your car.

Conclusion: Your '87 Audi Coupe GT Awaits

So there you have it, guys! We've covered the exciting journey of restoring a 1987 Audi Coupe GT Special Build. From planning and sourcing parts to the joy of the first test drive, it’s a challenging but deeply rewarding experience. This project isn’t just about fixing up a car; it's about bringing a classic back to life, and creating a masterpiece that reflects your passion for automotive history. So, if you're ready to embrace the challenge and experience the thrill of restoring a true automotive icon, the '87 Audi Coupe GT is waiting for you. Get ready for an awesome project. You have all the info you need. Now, go make some memories!