The German Audi was designed to directly take on the Mercedes-Benz and BMW in the late 90s European luxury market. With a sleek design, powerful engine and excellent performance record, the brand was considered strong enough to be brought over to the American market place. During the 70s, Audi lost a fair amount of the market share to a series of recalls due to brake failure and unintended acceleration. To regain a strong hold in the American market, the source of the problems were found and corrected. The bodies of the cars were galvanized, making them rust resistant for up to 12 years; certain elements of its body design were changed to appeal to the market and increased safety features added.
A used Audi for sale will be more expensive than other makes of cars from the same year because their technological advances, body appearance and engine strength are considered to hold their value even at high mileage. The body styling is also more classic and European, making the car appear less dated when seen around current models. By the 2000s, Audi had become one of the leading car manufacturers in the world. Proof that German ingenuity in car manufacturing can overcome any problem.