Although the third-generation Audi TT->ke1081 has yet to arrive in dealerships -- European deliveries are set to begin in December 2014, while U.S. customers won't get it for the 2016 model year -- the Germans have already developed a special-edition->ke2041 coupe. Dubbed Nuvolari, the model that precedes the commercial launch of the new TT over the pond pays tribute to an important figure in Audi's->ke14 history: Tazio Nuvolari.

Nuvolari is known as one of the greatest drivers in motorsport history. And for good reason, as the Italian-born ace has no less than 52 major racing victories to his name. His prodigious career spanned between 1924 and 1939, with a brief return from 1946 until 1950. He has driven various Bugattis->ke16, Alfa Romeos->ke1386, Maseratis->ke51 and Ferraris->ke252 before switching to Auto Union, one of the most successful race car manufacturers of the 1930s. At the time, Auto Union incorporated four brands including Audi, which explains why Ingolstadt takes so much pride in Nuvolari.

Of course, the Audi TT is not in any way related to Tazio, but the TT Nuvolari Special Edition is a great way to stir emotions among classic motorsport enthusiasts. Especially in Italy, where this coupe->ke141 will be launched on September 19th, 2014.

Click past the jump to read more about the Audi TT Nuvolari Special Edition.

Audi TT Nuvolari Special Edition in detail

Very few details set this TT, which is based on the S Line model, apart from its regular siblings, but the Nuvolari edition is indeed unique. Unlike other limited editions, most of the time equipped with only badges and special wheels, this TT comes with slightly modified front and rear bumpers, and a new set of side skirts. Sure, these aren't too noticeable to the untrained eye, but once you notice the bespoke 19-inch alloy wheels and the "Nuvolari" writing above the side skirts, the special status of the coupe becomes apparent. Audi finished the TT Nuvolari in Daytona Grey. Although this hue suits the sporty character of the TT, I think Audi should've opted for a shade of silver close to what Nuvolari's Auto Unions used to wear back in the late 1930s.

On the inside, the TT's black interior is enhanced by a set of unique, leather-wrapped seats, special sill plates, and various aluminum inserts. An interesting detail can be spotted on the floor mats, which carry Nuvolari's good-luck tortoise stamp. Each of the 100 units of the TT Nuvolari will also feature a numbered plate. In case you're wondering why Audi is building only 100 examples, the explanation is very simple. The number was chosen to honor Nuvolari's 100 fastest-lap records in all competitions and the 100 podiums he achieved throughout his career.

As far as the engine goes, the TT Nuvolari uses the base, 2.0-liter, TDI engine, meaning power comes from 184 ponies and 280 pound-feet of torque. It's a bit strange that Audi selected a diesel powerplant for a vehicle that pays tribute to a racing legend, but we're not her to discuss marketing strategies. Still, this TT Nuvolari deserves the 310 horses coming from the gasoline-fed 2.0 TFSI.

Now for the bad news. If you're dreaming about parking one of these special-edition models in your driveway, it's time to wake up. The TT Nuvolari isn't coming to the U.S. as all 100 units will be sold in Italy.