What is the difference between Audi A3 and S3?
2 Answers
Audi S3 will be equipped with a high-power version of the 2.0TFSI engine, paired with a 6-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission, and the S3 will also come standard with the Quattro all-wheel-drive system. The Audi A3 is developed based on the Volkswagen MQB platform, featuring lightweight design and aluminum materials, and is powered by multiple engines including the 1.4TFSI and 1.8TFSI. The differences between the Audi A3 and S3 are as follows: 1. Different series: one is the S series, which is Audi's high-performance model, while the other is just the ordinary A series. 2. Different performance: Although both the S3 and A3 use a 2.0T engine with the same size cylinder block, the S3 can actually deliver 50kW and 30Nm more power than the A3.
I've driven the old A3 and test-driven the new S3. These two cars look like siblings but have completely different personalities. The A3 is a refined grocery-getter, with its 1.4T engine being more than enough for city commuting, averaging just over 6 liters per 100km in fuel consumption, and its softly-tuned suspension glides over speed bumps without jolting your back. The S3 is a different beast—the exhaust roars the moment you start it up, its 2.0T engine pumps out 310 horsepower, and the 4.8-second 0-100km/h acceleration pins you into the bucket seat. The chassis is 15mm lower, making it stick to the ground in corners, and the standard sport differential gives the rear end exceptional agility. The interiors look similar, but the S3's steering wheel comes with paddle shifters, and the honeycomb seat fabric offers tremendous grip. If you ask me, if your budget allows, go for the S3—the extra hundred grand buys you way more than just the red lettering under the badge.
