| Year
(of specifications) |
1999
- 2003 |
| Engine(s) |
1.8
litre, 4 cylinder, turbocharged |
| Transmission |
6
speed manual AWD |
| Max
speed |
155
mph |
| 0-60 |
6.6
seconds |
| Horsepower |
222
hp @ 5,900 rpm (later cars) |
| weight |
1,375
kgs |
The first generation (1999-2003) Audi S3 quattro was the smallest
of the hooligan Audi's. And it still is, well unless they decide
to make an 'S' version of the new A1 at some point.
Power for the S3 quattro came from a turbocharged 1.8 litre
4 cylinder engine. The same engine used in the A4 1.8 T and
Audi TT at the time. It was initially offered with a 207 horsepower
version of the engine, but later models (after 2001) produced
222 horsepower. Both engines produced around 280 Nm (210 lb-ft)
of torque @ 2,200 - 5,500 rpm.
Despite the 'quattro' badge the S3 quattro actually spent most
of its time as a front wheel drive car. The Haldex Traction
coupling adjusts the bias of torque distribution from the front
to rear axle and only sends power to the rear wheels when needed.
Inside, the S3 quattro received lashings of equipment and luxuries
usually reserved for larger executive cars. It had electrically
adjustable Recaro leather seats, climate control, alarm and
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with traction control (ASR).
Options included a Bose sound system, 6 disc CD changer, center
armrest, tinted windows, park assist, auto dimming rear view
mirror, heated seats, cruise control, and a sunroof.
In the looks department the Audi S3 quattro wasn't ugly by any
means, but it was also quite bland - or discreet depending on
your taste. It has the same generic hatchback body shape of
the standard A3, and only a few extra shiny bits, additional
vents and 17" alloy wheels to distinguish it.
One extremely good aspect to the S3 quattro's design however
is how well its aged. Over 10 years later and it's just barely
starting to look dated. |
|
