EdRich

I'm not a big A/C fan and rarely use it but it's been over 100 for the last week here in GA and I've cranked it up a few times. The car shifts (manual) rough with the A/C. You can't buy a smooth shift. Has anyone had/resolved this problem?
My radio also died a few weeks ago. If you park in the radio station parking lot you can barely get some reception.
I have 11K on the A3 now - it's a no options model. Had a great time with it on Road Atlanta last month although it's grip is well below my previous '99 A4 with the sport pkg. Those Pirelli P6's screamed like little girls, but it was balanced.
Any suggestions on the trans would be appreciated. I'm sure it's one of those things that tech will say that they can't detect.

RyanS3

I can't believe you felt safe on the track with the no-options suspension. horrible IMO. it's like a boat. the sport suspension/ s-line, is WAY more capable. But even still, aftermarket is needed to the track.

at least get a rsb dude. I ran one while I had the same suspension as you. helped BIG time. And of course the P6s suck as you mentioned

Good luck with the shifting concern.

EdRich

I plan to go after the suspension and rubber at some point. It was surprisingly stable on the track but slippery. Not a lot of opportunity for up and down bobbing on Road Atlanta, so that probably helped the weak damping. For $25K I couldn't pass up the base car.

RyanS3

for 25k, you did yourself a favor. you got an incredible motor. You're going to get your own wheels. suspension. tires. why not! that is 4k right there!

also I completely agree with your opinion of how the A3 is well balanced!