1996-2003 A3 OverviewAudi A3 Overview (1996 - 2003)
8L
Tech Specs Summary
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- 112 - 151 mph
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- 6.6 - 12.6 seconds
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- 89 - 222 hp
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- 25.1 - 48 mpg
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- 2,403 - 3,131 lbs
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- 9.5 - 38.8 ft3
This generation of the Audi A3 (8L) was produced by the German manufacturer Audi between 1996 - 2003. It's a front engined Hatchback with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and came with either 3 or 5 doors. There are many power levels available, ranging from a 89 hp 1.9 L Inline 4 Turbo diesel engine all the way to a 222 hp 1.8 L Inline 4 Turbo gasoline engine. It has macpherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension. However, some models have multi-link rear suspension.
Performance Pick
If you're interested in performance, the best performance version of the A3 is the Audi S3 which scores 2.8★ on the encyCARpedia Rating system for performance. With total power at 222 hp and a power/weight ratio of 14.11 lb/hp it has a top speed of 151 mph and gets to 62 mph in 6.6 seconds.
Practicality Pick
If you're more interested in practicality, then the Audi A3 1.9 TDI 110 is the best practical all-rounder with a score of 3.5★ on the encyCARpedia Rating system for practicality. It has a range of 696 miles and can store 12.4-38.8 cubic feet of cargo. It also has a towing capacity of 3,086 lbs.
Euro NCAP Results
