Family Feud: Audi S3 vs VW Golf R
For the sake of family unity, let’s hope this S3 and Golf R comparison doesn’t ruin VAG’s Oktoberfest.
There’s no question that the Audi S3 Sportback and the Volkswagen Golf R are more alike than they are different. From the chassis, to the drivetrain, to the gearbox, the list of similarities makes them seem like more fraternal twins than corporate cousins. That said, any enthusiast knows that specs are one thing, but how the package comes together is another thing entirely.
As Jeremy Clarkson once said, in regard to the Jaguar X-Type being based on the Ford Mondeo, “genetically you are 98% identical to a halibut — but it’s the 2% that makes the difference.”
So how exactly to these machines stack up when put head to head? Well, that’s exactly what our friends across the Pond at carwow aimed to find out. In this video, Mat Watson gets behind the wheel to test the zero-to-60 mph sprint, quarter-mile time, and braking performance of each offering from the VAG family. He also does some more subjective critiques of the interior and exterior designs, which might make for an uncomfortable Oktoberfest between Audi and Volkswagen.
But first, let’s review those specs. Under the hood of the S3, there’s a 2.0-liter turbocharged mill that’s good for a healthy 310 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Those ponies are sent to all four corners via a seven-speed dual clutch transmission and the famous quattro system. While the sheetmetal is different, under the skin, it rides on the same MQB chassis as the VW — though in my opinion, that skin is sexier.
Now, here’s the really interesting part. Because in a bit of detail that’s similar to the recently released power imbalance between the Toyota 86/Subaru BRZ twins, the VW has a little more poke on tap. In Golf R trim, the force fed 2.0-liter is pumping out 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of twist, and the unit is mated to a dual-clutch transmission. Of course, while you might have a NASA-calibrated butt dyno to feel the power difference, it’s there. Seriously, I hope that little fact doesn’t ruin Oktoberfest for this pair…
Watch the video to see which one of these German hot hatches wins this little shootout, and let me know why you think the brass allowed VW to give the Golf more power than the Audi. You’d really figure that given the more humble market position of VW, the situation would be reversed, just on general principle. Remember how pissed off GM insiders were that the Buick GNX had more horsepower than the contemporary Corvette? It’s OK if you don’t, it just means you aren’t super old. Enjoy the video.
Photos: YouTube