danham

OK, now that I've learned the A3 a bit better, time for a very brief synopsis of the experience, prompted in part by the A3 vs A4 discussion.

Pros: What turbo lag? Great boy racer sounds. Better handling than my chipped '98 A4 1.8TQ and better acceleration. Just as comfy for a long drive, though admittedly a tad less cush on city potholed streets. Six speeds. Great mileage when not flogging the turbo. Smaller blind spot (once mirrors adjusted carefully) than my A4. Love the engine, esp. its torque.

Cons: Touchy clutch compared to the very forgiving A4. Shifter requires paying attention 100% of the time, or you risk potentially expensive crunchy noises. Less than perfect view out the rear when backing up. ESP can intrude at times but maybe I'll love it more once the snow flies and I =really= start to miss the Quattro.

Bottom line: one of the best cars I've ever owned - high praise considering I've had some pretty great Porsches, GTIs and Corrados.

-dan

MML

I love the color of the car you chose!