Jeffc

I have a 2016 TTS and I'm considering trading it in for either a 2018 A3 or a 2018 S3. So far I don't find many differences between the A3 Premium Plus Quattro with the Technology and Sport packages, and the S3 with the Tech and S Sport packages. All I've got from spec-ing them out on the Audi site is:
The A3 engine lacks 72hp and is 1.2 seconds slower to 60 mph.
6 speed vs 7 speed transmission.
A3 has smaller brakes.
A3 Sport Suspension does not include Magnetic Ride.
A3 has a $5650 lower MSRP.

Are there any other differences?
Would the A3 with the Sport Suspension have the same ride height and ride/handling characteristics as the S3?

Thanks.

supersleek

S3 with S sport has magnetic ride

Jeffc

The Sport package includes Sport Suspension. I'm looking for more information on that, but I thought it meant that it would have magnetic ride. What is the Sport Suspension? On the other hand, I have mag ride on my TTS and it is pretty rough with 19" wheels even in the Comfort setting. With 18s it is still pretty firm. Might be better off without it if the A3 Sport suspension does a good job keeping the car flat around corners.

OK, I checked and it appears that the A3 does not get Mag Ride. I'll update my list above.

Rans09vert

That's ALOT of differences. I had an A3, and now have an S3. No comparison, S3 is hands down worth the money. Much, much faster/qicker, rides tremendously better, less turbo lag, ......

Jeffc

Turbo lag with the 292hp engine is not bad once you are moving, but from a stop it is significant. If it is worse with the 220hp engine I don't think I could live with it. The GTI I tested with the same engine as the A3 was not bad.

How does the ride compare? My TTS probably has a similar suspension to the S3 and it is pretty rough with 19" wheels, barely acceptable with 18s..

FlorS3

I have an S3 and test drove the A3. I agree with "Rans09vert" there is no comparison - S3 is much more fun to drive. My previous car (Acura TL) had a non turbo 258hp V6 and I don't have any issue with turbo lag in the S3. I have the magnetic ride option and I leave it in dynamic (aka "sport") mode virtually all the time - the ride is firm but I like it just fine.

supersleek

Technical specification comparison:
2018 Audi A3 Specs | Audi A3 | Audi library

Jeffc

Maybe they made some improvements. From a stoplight, I step on the gas and it takes a full 2-count before much happens.

Jeffc

I've never visited the Audi Library. Lots to read. Thanks.

Rans09vert

Jeffc,

This issue has been talked about here somewhere, it is partially turbo lag, but more so it is either the transmission, the throttle, I don't know, but there is an initial "dead pedal" in the S3, but not nearly as bad as in the A3. You work around it. If you really want to take off from a stop, just do "launch control", but otherwise its not that much of an issue, you get used to it. I still love how the car handles, ride firmness is perfect for me in dynamic and sport. Not too rough at all. Very quick for everyday needs.