Contents

First generation 1999-2003

Overview

The first S3 is built on the same A platform of the A3. Volkswagen Golf. Audi TT. León and Škoda Octavia. The 20V 1.8 L turbocharged petrol engine in two versions of power output: 210 bhp and 225

Early models (1999-2002) had 210 bhp is said to be a de-tuned Audi TT and was specifically reduced to lessen competition with the more TT. Later models (2002-2003) had valve timing and 225 bhp. The provides a maximum 280 N•m of torque. of which is available from through to 5500 rpm.

This is the first time a four-cylinder engine has been in an Audi S-series car.

dubbed Quattro. the S3 uses a four-wheel drive system.

The coupling adjusts the bias the front to rear axle as changes – most of the it operates as a front-wheel drive.

The S3 was in the United Kingdom, Europe, and Australia, but was not officially marketed in the States.

The S3 was facelifted in 2000, where it was one-piece headlights /indicator different front wings, lights clusters and some upgrades to interior trim. had been minor changes to the previous to this, including clock on the dash.

Equipment

features include xenon HID with high pressure front fog lamps, 17 in Avus wheels with 225/45R17 electrically adjustable Recaro seats, climate control, and electronic traction control/stability Options include a Bose system, boot/trunk mounted 6 CD changer, metallic paint. 18 9-spoke RSTT wheels, sunroof, centre arm rest, dipping rear view parking assist, luggage heated front seats, control, aluminium door casings and part leather/Alcantara combination seat coverings.

Second Generation (8P)

Overview

The second generation S3 is powered by a 261bhp VAG 2.0 T-FSI. As all S models the design is done by Quattro gmbh, as RS models are tuned in collaboration with Powertrain (ie..Cosworth Technologies). The features revised boost/fuel increased compressor wheel

The most powerful form of widely used engine, and all-wheel drive, makes for a time of 5.7 seconds and a top speed of While badged a Quattro the all-wheel drive system in the S3 does not employ a Torson-Gleason differential as other common models, but instead the Swedish system, system.

In the United the S3 is priced at £27000, higher many rivals. BMW’s M Sport offers 265bhp, but is to 62mph at 6.1 seconds. It costs

Other cars of similar are a good deal cheaper; the VW R32 sports 247bhp, and comes in or £500 more than the door, with 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds. The Vauxhall Astra VXR with less power 237bhp – but manages in 6.2 seconds and costs less at £19120, whilst the Seat Cupra (2.0 T-FSI 247bhp), Volvos C30 (268bhp 2.5 turbo),and Mazdaspeed 3 (2.3 turbocharged engine with are both around the corner, estimated price tags of £19000.

Sadly the US market is overlooked again for the S3. Quite the disappointment to who want a true hatchback. the R32 has the V6 variant and the S3 has the favored 2.0T, you think Audi of America bring it to the states.

The 2.0T has tuning capabilites than the VW and even with mild surpasses the 3.2 VR6.

Awards

Top Gear Australia Best