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Audi S3: The Wheel Deal Car of the Week
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I WRITE this review still salivating over my week with Audi's little power-pack.
My little red number looked good and gave a fair impression of Shergar chomping at the bit; yes there was true horse-power under the bonnet, registering at 256 bhp to be precise. Recognition that I was driving something special came when a group of teenagers stopped their on-street shenanigans to marvel at the S3 as it glided past them.
Acknowledged as the first car to being premium brand qualities to the compact hatchback sector, the A3 continues to go from strength to strength, with new engines and improvements to specification continually building on the already exceptional breadth of choice in the three-door and five door-door Sportback ranges.
The S3 quattro was launched in 2006. Like family members the A3 and TT, the S3 features a hydraulic multi-plate clutch designed for Audi models with transversely mounted engines, which varies the distribution of power to the front and rear wheels.
The car's electronic 'brain' uses information such as wheel and engine speed, road speed and engine torque, and controls clutch pressure and the additional power required for the particular driving situation accordingly. Quite simply these technology advancements ensure that the driver of the S3 does so in style, comfort and safety.
Additionally, the S3 quattro is equipped with stiffer springs and shock absorbers, and its body sits 25mm lower than the an A3 with standard suspension. Aluminium pivot bearings and wishbones reduce the weight of the front suspension.Stiffer suspension mounts and reconfigured electro-mechanical steering permit even greater precision. Inside the car I was cosseted and established a good driving position.
Gear changes were a delight and got me thinking of a session at Silverstone, as maybe the warm-up car for Lewis Hamilton & Co before the big race starts! However, I do think the car is overpriced for what it is but if you are a thrill-seeker it just has to be on your wish list.
Make no mistake, Audi are hot on the heels of Mercedes and BMW in terms of building special cars. I had the honour of evaluating the Audi's rapid RS4 last year and all I can say is that the S3 maintains the German manufacturer's very high standards.
Published: 28 May 2007
Issue: 1271
