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Audi S3

It's now nearly seven years since Audi first unveiled the A3, but thanks to clean styling, a great image and excellent build, it's still a popular choice with buyers. In terms of size, the A3 is on a par with the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra, but its premium badge and lofty reputation mean that the market treats it in the mould of a scaled-down executive car rather than as a small family hatch.

February 2003

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It's now nearly seven years since Audi first unveiled the A3, but thanks to clean styling, a great image and excellent build, it's still a popular choice with buyers. In terms of size, the A3 is on a par with the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra, but its premium badge and lofty reputation mean that the market treats it in the mould of a scaled-down executive car rather than as a small family hatch.
That's reflected in the vast array of engine choices and equipment - the most popular options are alloys, climate control, leather trim and uprated sound systems, and an A3 with none of these will prove difficult to sell.
Demand is also high for the diesels, and for good reason. The VW-sourced engines are strong, powerful and economical, making the TDI models a wise, if rather expensive, selection.
Checklist
* Early 1.8s had faulty water pumps. Most will have been replaced under war- ranty, but get a dealer to check.
* Catalytic converters cost between ΂£500 and ΂£1,000 depending on the model, so beware of worn units.
* If the clutch slips, don't renew the mechanism immediately. It might simply be worn pedal return springs - a much cheaper fault to repair.
* Water is channelled up over the exhaust in wet conditions to avoid aquaplaning. Trapped moisture means the rear silencer can rot from the top.
* Don't worry if the brakes lack feel in rainy weather - it's a trait of the model and performance isn't affected.
Glass's View
Despite a new model appearing on the horizon, the A3's used values continue to hold up well, says trade bible Glass's Guide. But be wary of the 1.6, especially ones with low trim levels and in poor colours. A3s tend not to show their age, so look out for clocked examples. The hot S3 has developed something of a cult following, and prices are really starting to strengthen for that particular model.
My Audi A3...
Simon Warnford-Davis is now on his second A3 having replaced an imported version with a UK-spec 1.8 Sport two years ago. "I chose thIs Audi because I thought it provided excellent value for money, given its prestigious image," said Simon. "It's a quality car at a sensible price."
The 34-year-old marketing manager from Chinnor, Oxfordshire, says the hatchback's best feature is the interior. "It has a really upmarket feel," he said. "It's so well finished, and I simply love the way that the dashboard and switchgear are laid out."
However, Simon's experience of A3 ownership hasn't been entirely without hiccups. "My first car broke down because of a fault with the engine management system," he told us. "And I had to have the driver's seat replaced because the frame rattled." Despite being a massive fan of the A3, Simon says he won't be buying one as a replacement for his current motor, although he has decided to remain loyal to the German brand. "I've no reason to change," he explained. "I've become such a lover of Audis, that I'm going to have an A4 TDI next."

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Although you'll pay a premium over petrol models, we recommend the oil-burning A3s as the best buys. They're refined, economical and hold their value brilliantly, meaning you won't lose as much come resale time. If you can afford it, try to go for the later 130bhp model in Sport or SE trim. If not, the 110bhp versions are still fine to drive.

For a review of the new Audi A3 visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk

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VERDICT

    Although you'll pay a premium over petrol models, we recommend the oil-burning A3s as the best buys. They're refined, economical and hold their value brilliantly, meaning you won't lose as much come resale time. If you can afford it, try to go for the later 130bhp model in Sport or SE trim. If not, the 110bhp versions are still fine to drive.
 

OTHER EXPENSES

Depreciation:5
Running costs (ppm):51-84p
Insurance groups:9-17

HISTORY

    1996: A3 launched with an engine choice of 101bhp 1.6-litre, 125bhp 1.8, 150bhp 1.8 turbo or 110bhp 1.9 TDI. Entry-level, Sport and SE trim options. Initially only available as a three-door. 1997: Front side airbags become a standard fitment across range. 1999: New five-door A3 unveiled to coincide with a mild facelift. The 1.8T has optional quattro 4WD transmission. A new 90bhp entry-level diesel is introduced. At the other end of the scale, 210bhp S3 joins the line-up. 2000: Subtle exterior changes include a fresh radiator grille, rear light clusters and front spoiler. ESP now comes as standard across the range. 2001: Flagship 130bhp diesel introduced with six-speed manual gearbox. The 90bhp oil-burner is replaced by a 100bhp. Both have the choice of two-wheel-drive or quattro transmission. S3 power upgraded to 225bhp.
 
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