Spoonie G

I think an A3 would be better suited for you. But performance wise? The S3 offers much more bang-for-the-buck. You don't sound like the type of person that would enjoy what the S3 has to offer. And for the person who the S3 is too loud as an everyday commuter? I don't think that it is loud at all. The sound that you would rather not have is the sound that I love and enjoy. Get the A3. S3 isn't for you guys.

jeff968

According to the EPA, the mileage is hardly different between the two. The S3 is 26/31 and the A3 is 27/33. What they actually get???

The interesting thing about the comparison of these two cars is the options on the A3 bring it close to the S3 in many ways. The sport suspension is there. The 19s with the drive select and summer tires. The sport seats (and most want the straight black anyways, no two tone). Outfitted this way, this A3 is not like the standard model.

Now, if they decide to offer a manual transmission on the S3 then the decision would be easy for me.

I thought the S3 was more of a package value but looking at the numbers, maybe not. I like it, but do I $5,550 like it? I'll have to think about that.

Thanks for the thoughts!

Spoonie G

Not true and 100% your opinion.

Tsle

As others say, drive them both. To me, the S3 is a totally different car. I thought the A3 2.0T was a nice car, it drove well, it has nice features, but the S3 is an entirely different beast. Even just puttering around in traffic, it feels special. I think if you drive them both back to back, either you'll have an emotional reaction to the S3 that tells you it's worth the extra money, or you won't.

m3brad

I agree with previous posts. A fully equipped A3 is a great little package, but the S3 when asked, can be a total hooligan. Of course, I mean that in a good way!!

Spoonie G

This just feels like my mom or someone who doesn't really care about driving trying to decide on a car. Get the car that is the least expensive. It doesn't mean that you are getting a better deal (in this case). It just means that you are spending less money.

jeff968

This A3 was not a typical A3 based on the way it was optioned. That is what makes me question the decision of which car to purchase and if the S3 is worth the bump. I was looking for input from others on what differentiates the S3.

For those that have shared their observations, thanks

Spoonie G

Even so, it is still not anywhere close to being an S3.

Spoonie G

The list that differentiates the 2 is quite a long one.

Let me give it a try, I'll put a price next to it as far as how I value the items

1) Bigger better looking brakes. This includes the calipers and the rotors. $1,000
2) more powerful engine complete with stronger internal components. $2,000
3) Stronger transmission $1500
4) Less restrictive exhaust $500
5) lowered suspension (for better handling) $500
6) faster
7) handles better
8) looks better
9) sounds better
$6,000 Total

Some folks would actually give the items above even higher dollar values. And I'm sure that I missed plenty more.

jeff968

Good list, and even though it is subjective, the S-line exclusivity is worth noting.