Audi A3 1.8 T Sport 3d (1996/P) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Economy
Value
Classier. Better specification and materials than a Golf, yet second-hand values are very similar. The Audi badge makes all the difference in the car park too!
Costs
Can be expensive to fix. Look for Audi specialists other then franchised dealers when getting things fixed, you'll save a fortune. Yet things rarely go wrong anyway.
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On the road
Driving
Nice, smooth power delivery. Quite often leaves wide-boys in their BMWs/Mercs standing! Handling secure, but not sharp.
Performance
Quick, yet not manic. Really flies on the motorway. Get traction control if you like traffic-light racing! Otherwise you'll just sit there with the wheels spinning!
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Living with it
Reliability
I've heard of problems with the ABS system on these models. Can be very expensive to fix. Otherwise, these cars are faultless. Everything is bolted together solidly.
Image
Getting a bit old now, but still look classy and sporty. Audi seems to have a better image than the (wide boy) BMW and the (old man) Merc.
Comfort
Get heated leather! Bose stereo isn't up to much, so don't pay extra for it. Climate control is superb and hardly affects economy. I'm 6' 2" and have no problems with comfort in this car.
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Security and Service
Security
Thatcham approved alarm/immobilisor with visable LEDs on the doors. Seems good enough to me.
Service
Whitehouse Aylesford and Dartford are superb. Very helpful and accodating. Always get a free Audi courtesy car when being serviced or in the unlikely event of repairs!
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
ABS warning light came on for a few weeks, then went off before I had a chance to get it fixed. :o)
Other
Driver's seat rattles. Common problem apparently.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes