The Audi TT was first presented as a concept car at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1995. It’s revolutionary design belongs to J Mays and Freeman Thomas of Volkswagen design studios in California, and the interior design belongs to Martin Smith. The name “TT” doesn’t come from “twin turbo” as is often supposed.
The car is named after the NSU TT, a smaller racing model with the engine placed in the back with a formidable pedigree, produced between 1960 and based on the NSU Prinz, although the modern TT has nothing in common with that concept design.
NSU TT was, in turn, named after an motorcycle racing trophy in the Isle of Man TT (Tourist Trophy). TT’s appearance is regarded by many as a crucial moment in the history of automobile design. From its presentation as a concept car in 1995, and as a series produced car in 1998, the design was described by many as rounded, innovative and revolutionary.
While the car borrowed a few elements from the past cars, the overall design was considered by many to be truly unique. Despite its rounded lines, the design is not very aerodynamic, the wind resistance coefficient being quite big. But, with his distinguished rounded body, the daring use of unpainted anodized aluminum and lack of clearly defined bumpers, the Audi TT represents a revolutionary breakthrough in the traditional style that dominated the auto industry at that time.
The success and popularity that Audi TT gave to many automotive designers and carmakers, the freedom to experiment more easily forms and shapes with a more daring design. The TT’s influences can be seen in many design elements of many vehicles released after the TT. It is believed that Audi TT is the model that made people to throw a second look at Audi. No longer being a second league car in Europe, Audi became a serious competitor to BMW and Mercedes-Benz.