Autoforma Transforms 1999 Audi TT Roadster into 1995 TTS Concept Tribute

Dutch coachbuilder Autoforma, led by designer Niels Van Roj, has completed a one-off restomod of a first-generation Audi TT Roadster, drawing direct inspiration from the 1995 Audi TTS Concept. The project was commissioned by Dutch architect and designer Joss Baijens, a noted enthusiast of the iconic 1990s design.

The first-generation Audi TT remains one of the most influential car designs of the 1990s, characterized by its Bauhaus-inspired circular and arched shapes over Golf-based underpinnings. Baijens sought to honor the original concept’s purity by commissioning Autoforma to transform a 1999 TT Roadster donor car into a concept-inspired tribute.

Design Changes: From Roadster to Concept Tribute

The most significant modifications include the removal of the retractable fabric roof, replaced by a custom body-colored cover that seamlessly integrates with the rear deck. Additional changes include the deletion of the rear spoiler, antenna, and third brake light, resulting in a cleaner, more minimalist aesthetic.

Carbon fiber components further enhance the design, featuring custom lower bumpers and side skirts. These elements introduce slimmer front bumper intakes, a subtle side vent, and a minimalist rear diffuser. Other bespoke touches include significantly smaller mirrors mounted on the glass, and front fenders with integrated side gills—a modification that required relocating the windscreen washer fluid reservoir to the boot.

Exterior and Interior Details

The one-off TTS Roadster is finished in a striking two-tone livery, with gloss Nimbus Gray Pearl Effect for the upper body and matte gray for the lower section, wheels, and windshield surround. The interior features brown leather upholstery, offering a premium, permanently exposed cabin for the two-seater.

Underneath, the car benefits from a lowered suspension and wider tracks, providing a more planted and dynamic stance. While Autoforma has not disclosed any performance upgrades, the TT retains its original turbocharged 1.8-liter engine, producing 222 hp (225 PS) in quattro form with a six-speed manual gearbox. The naturally-aspirated 3.2-liter VR6 option, with 247 hp (184 kW / 250 PS), was not introduced until 2003.

Project Cost and Ownership

Autoforma has not revealed the total cost of the upgrades but confirmed that the TTS Roadster will remain a one-off. The completed car is owned by Joss Baijens, the Dutch designer behind the commission, who was actively involved throughout the process.

Legacy of the Audi TT

The final first-generation Audi TT rolled off the production line in Győr, Hungary, in November 2023, concluding a 25-year production run across three generations with a total of 662,762 units sold. The nameplate is set to return in 2027 as a fully electric sports car, as previewed by recent concept vehicles.