Just a reminder - the RS3 really is an incredible car

[JBones81]

Over the last few weeks, for random reasons, I've mainly driven the Tesla model 3 performance and the ZL1. Obviously, they're VERY different cars. When I did take the rs3 out, I had my kids with me, so I was putting around like a grandma, and just shuttling them to school or sports practices.

Yesterday, I was alone and had a chance to take the rs3 out just for fun. After 15min I remembered that it is all around SO much better than anything else I've ever owned. I know mine is modified, but not insanely so. The acceleration is effortless. The transmission is so good. The handling is amazing at speeds I'm comfortable seeing on public roads. It stops on a dime. The intake noise is intoxicating. The 5 cyl sound is unparalleled. I've owned 46 cars now, but had never owned one for longer than 3 years. I always got bored with it and wanted the next thing. September will be 5 years for the RS3. I toy with the idea of selling it to get something else, since there are so many other cool options at the moment - but then I remember how special this car is, and I hesitate to let it go. I've put a lot of $$$ and into it, and the package is so perfect at this point. Maybe the only other car I should be considering right now is an 8Y RS3

[Alex D]

Over the last few weeks, for random reasons, I've mainly driven the Tesla model 3 performance and the ZL1. Obviously, they're VERY different cars. When I did take the rs3 out, I had my kids with me, so I was putting around like a grandma, and just shuttling them to school or sports practices.

Yesterday, I was alone and had a chance to take the rs3 out just for fun. After 15min I remembered that it is all around SO much better than anything else I've ever owned. I know mine is modified, but not insanely so. The acceleration is effortless. The transmission is so good. The handling is amazing at speeds I'm comfortable seeing on public roads. It stops on a dime. The intake noise is intoxicating. The 5 cyl sound is unparalleled. I've owned 46 cars now, but had never owned one for longer than 3 years. I always got bored with it and wanted the next thing. September will be 5 years for the RS3. I toy with the idea of selling it to get something else, since there are so many other cool options at the moment - but then I remember how special this car is, and I hesitate to let it go. I've put a lot of $$$ and into it, and the package is so perfect at this point. Maybe the only other car I should be considering right now is an 8Y RS3

If you love the 8V, you'll love the 8Y. Minus the power, i don't miss anything on the 8V RS3 i had. If there was no RS3 available, i would probably consider a M3 xdrive.

[Rod Paine]

The RS 3 is certainly an amazing vehicle. Our 2019 RS 3 now has 48,116 miles on it
of which 34,616 miles to date have been fast country back roads run at 10am - 2pm
when weather is good. Only changes we've made were the wheels/tires installing
18 inch Neuspeed alloy wheels and 245/40/ZR18 Pilot Sport tires, which was a
great improvement over the factory 19-inch wheels/tires. Been driving country
back roads for a great many years and now at 83 years old I am still able to
enjoy what our Audi delivers... THANK FULLY!
-Rod

PS - My Photo Gallery actually has pics of our Audi, if interested.

[o1turbo30v]

I completely agree, also same as you, never held onto a car this long, sure we could have made some serious $ on it in 21/22 when used car prices where insane but what you replace it with thats as compact, tuneable, and just straight up fun to drive, sure the 8Y has a better rear diff, everything else is personal preference. I plan on keeping mine forever, gift it to my son when he can drive.

[Xxyion]

As a new soon to be owner i love seeing posts like this. Sure you get this in almost every single car group, and there will always be someone where the car is just perfect for them. but i love seeing the enthusiasm. It makes me excited for my new car purchase and it tells me that there is something to love about the new car i'm getting. As much as i wished my GT4 was going to be my forever car, i'm very much looking forward to the RS3 as a replacement.

[JBones81]

If you love the 8V, you'll love the 8Y. Minus the power, i don't miss anything on the 8V RS3 i had. If there was no RS3 available, i would probably consider a M3 xdrive.

That's so funny - that is literally the other car that I would most likely get.

xxyion - you'll love it. I can't speak from experience as far as owning a built motor/turbo rs3, but it seems like the majority of guys who go to that level end up selling the car. Could be for a lot of reasons other than that they aren't happy with the car, sure. However, I think if you can learn to be happy at stage 1+/stage 2 with other complimenting mods, the car is perfect. Don't skimp on the non-power mods and you can have a great car all around.

[Xxyion]

That's so funny - that is literally the other car that I would most likely get.

xxyion - you'll love it. I can't speak from experience as far as owning a built motor/turbo rs3, but it seems like the majority of guys who go to that level end up selling the car. Could be for a lot of reasons other than that they aren't happy with the car, sure. However, I think if you can learn to be happy at stage 1+/stage 2 with other complimenting mods, the car is perfect. Don't skimp on the non-power mods and you can have a great car all around.

I think my modding days are past me. At least in terms of tunes and trying to make big power. Ive always found that anyone who goes that route ends up being unhappy as i think they are chasing something unobtainable. That being said i'm not against things like FBO or mostly QOL mods to make the driving experience better. I'm not trying to turn this car into a racecar by any means and if anything am just looking to actually have a comfy car for once that can still hold its own.

I'm currently deciding what exhaust system i want to go with. I'm not gonna touch the cats at all as i want to stay compliant for CARB. I did spec the carbon package so hoping that will basically take care of any external flare i might have added myself. Other than that i cant really think of anything else that i might want to do.

[AudiRS#]

Agree, I really like my RS3 and it is one of my favorite cars I have owned (15 or so) that being said my Trackhawk still holds my “favorite spot” and I wish I hadnt sold it.

RS3 is in the top 3 or 4, it may be 2nd to the trackhawk I havent decided yet. Regardless it is a great car.


Sent from my iPhone using Audizine

[Plake]

Another satisfied owner here. Had a 16 s3, which my son quickly claimed, and upgraded to an 18 rs3. Still enjoy getting behind the wheel whenever I get the chance. Like Rod I went to 245/40/18 square and couldn't be happier.

[JBones81]

Back in 2004, I completely lucked into finding a local guy selling a BONE stock 1993 Supra turbo. It had 42k miles. I bought it for 19,000. A year later, a guy from the forums offered me $30k for it. I thought, you know what, it's a 12 year old car already...I should take the 10k profit and sell it. Obviously, I've always regretted that. Now, whenever I see clean MKIV Supras on Instagram, youtube, etc, I realize that you can keep older cars running and looking great if you're willing to put the time and money into it.

So, maybe in 2035, the RS3 will be still turning heads and getting attention and I'll still be out there enjoying it

[Alex D]

Back in 2004, I completely lucked into finding a local guy selling a BONE stock 1993 Supra turbo. It had 42k miles. I bought it for 19,000. A year later, a guy from the forums offered me $30k for it. I thought, you know what, it's a 12 year old car already...I should take the 10k profit and sell it. Obviously, I've always regretted that. Now, whenever I see clean MKIV Supras on Instagram, youtube, etc, I realize that you can keep older cars running and looking great if you're willing to put the time and money into it.

So, maybe in 2035, the RS3 will be still turning heads and getting attention and I'll still be out there enjoying it

Also a former MKIV Supra owner here as well. I had a 1993 6 Speed Turbo Hardtop car. Sold it at a time where i thought i was getting a way over market value. Not sure if the RS3 will ever reach the cult status of the MKIV Supra but its definitely one of the more respected compact cars in the car world.

[JBones81]

Also a former MKIV Supra owner here as well. I had a 1993 6 Speed Turbo Hardtop car. Sold it at a time where i thought i was getting a way over market value. Not sure if the RS3 will ever reach the cult status of the MKIV Supra but its definitely one of the more respected compact cars in the car world.

Nice. Mine was red, with a the targa top and an auto, so it wasn't super desirable back then. Still, if I had kept the mileage low and stock, it would be worth a ton today.

[TheContrarian]

If there was no RS3 available, i would probably consider a M3 xdrive.

Mechanically the M3 is impressive but I find it challenging to look at. Both the current M3/M4 look like Germany's answer to american muscle cars, with the bold grill design and chunky proportions. The M2 looks like its made of Lego. I don't know what the hell is going on in their design office.

[HurrayFive]

Mechanically the M3 is impressive but I find it challenging to look at. Both the current M3/M4 look like Germany's answer to american muscle cars, with the bold grill design and chunky proportions. The M2 looks like its made of Lego. I don't know what the hell is going on in their design office.

If they offered M2 proportions with x-drive and the same powerplant with a better frontend, I'd own one, full stop. Can't do the styling of the current M2/3/4 as-is, doesn't do it for me.

[Xxyion]

If they offered M2 proportions with x-drive and the same powerplant with a better frontend, I'd own one, full stop. Can't do the styling of the current M2/3/4 as-is, doesn't do it for me.

I had a 2020 M2 Competition, and i have to say that was an amazing car. It doesnt have xDrive but it was amazing in terms of styling as well as power delivery and just all around fun.

[HurrayFive]

I had a 2020 M2 Competition, and i have to say that was an amazing car. It doesnt have xDrive but it was amazing in terms of styling as well as power delivery and just all around fun.

I think the current gen is a step backwards visually from the last M2 you had, thought that was a great looking car, I just wanted AWD... So I bought 3 different F90 M5C's about it, hah. That car had looks + power + AWD, but also cost quite a bit more than the M3C x-drive, which I didn't like because of the looks (it otherwise is a fun car)

If they'd get a proper frontend on the M3/4C x-drive or offer x-drive on the M2 (supposed to be coming) + something closer to the last gen frontend, I'd get one, would be fine w/ two doors only. BMW seems intent on keeping those models "visually distinct" (ie; ugly) from the rest, just can't do it.

[Jetdriver]

I've spent 3-1/2 days with a rental G80 M3c (Turo in Miami). It was not an X-drive, so I only have experience with RWD. I had a blast with it. It has absolutely mind-boggling acceleration. Easily the fastest car I've ever driven - I think it was even faster than a 992 Carrera S with PDK that I've test driven. Looks-wise, I like the new M3, even with the funky nostrils. I think it's pretty aggressive looking. Both Audi and BMW have some issues with their grills these days. I am not in love with the new front end on the 8Y either. It is my least favorite part of the car. I much prefer the 8V front end or even the current gen RS6/7 style front end. The RS3 has too much black to the point I may have the surrounding piece around the bumper painted to match the body. It reminds me of when people who aren't in the best physical shape wear all black to hide the features of their bodies. LOL I feel Audi did the same thing with the 8Y. The M3 is in a different league, both in performance and in individuality when it comes to interior options. Different color leathers and interior trims are nice..... BUT (and this is a big BUT :) ), if you go with AWD, the M3 is a $90k+ car. Most of the ones I've built that were well-optioned were closer to $100k. I just can't justify spending that much money on a car right now. It's pretty ridiculous really. And the other thing I don't like about the M3 is that it's a BIG car. It feels big when you drive it. Today's M3's are the size of yesterday's M5 and the new M5 is the size of a 7-series. I don't need a large sedan. I felt uneasy driving the M3 through smaller areas and parking in lots with tight spaces. I like the size of the RS3 and for $65k, the RS3 has a lot of bang for the buck. On the street, will the difference in performance between the RS3 and the M3 be noticeable to justify spending $30k more? Probably not. Maybe just in low end torque. That inline 6 in the M3 is a beast, but I think with a Stage 1+ tune and maybe a TCU tune would bring the RS3 closer in performance to the M3. It also weighs a few hundred pounds less. I just received an allocation for a MY24 RS3 that I'll probably get in Jan-Mar '24 and looking forward to it.

[Rod Paine]

I hope your Audi RS 3 purchase delivers all that you're hoping for. Our 2019 Audi RS 3 now at 48,335 miles,
of which 34,710 miles have been fast country back road runs 3 days a week 10am-2pm as weather permits.
Only changes we made were wheels/tires installing 245/40/18 Michelin Pilot Sport AS3+, soon to be another
Michelin tire using the Pilot Sport All Season 4 as the AS3+ has been discontinued. A truly great vehicle
indeed, given my many years of making high speed drives since 1957, and lucky to still be doing it today!
-Rod

[JBones81]

I've spent 3-1/2 days with a rental G80 M3c (Turo in Miami). It was not an X-drive, so I only have experience with RWD. I had a blast with it. It has absolutely mind-boggling acceleration. Easily the fastest car I've ever driven - I think it was even faster than a 992 Carrera S with PDK that I've test driven. Looks-wise, I like the new M3, even with the funky nostrils. I think it's pretty aggressive looking. Both Audi and BMW have some issues with their grills these days. I am not in love with the new front end on the 8Y either. It is my least favorite part of the car. I much prefer the 8V front end or even the current gen RS6/7 style front end. The RS3 has too much black to the point I may have the surrounding piece around the bumper painted to match the body. It reminds me of when people who aren't in the best physical shape wear all black to hide the features of their bodies. LOL I feel Audi did the same thing with the 8Y. The M3 is in a different league, both in performance and in individuality when it comes to interior options. Different color leathers and interior trims are nice..... BUT (and this is a big BUT :) ), if you go with AWD, the M3 is a $90k+ car. Most of the ones I've built that were well-optioned were closer to $100k. I just can't justify spending that much money on a car right now. It's pretty ridiculous really. And the other thing I don't like about the M3 is that it's a BIG car. It feels big when you drive it. Today's M3's are the size of yesterday's M5 and the new M5 is the size of a 7-series. I don't need a large sedan. I felt uneasy driving the M3 through smaller areas and parking in lots with tight spaces. I like the size of the RS3 and for $65k, the RS3 has a lot of bang for the buck. On the street, will the difference in performance between the RS3 and the M3 be noticeable to justify spending $30k more? Probably not. Maybe just in low end torque. That inline 6 in the M3 is a beast, but I think with a Stage 1+ tune and maybe a TCU tune would bring the RS3 closer in performance to the M3. It also weighs a few hundred pounds less. I just received an allocation for a MY24 RS3 that I'll probably get in Jan-Mar '24 and looking forward to it.

That's surprising to hear. I think car and driver only got a low 12 1/4mi time in their testing. Trap was like 117mph. I know they're incredible (like our cars) when modded, but a low 12sec car is not exciting these days

[rs3_guy]

8Y RS3 owner here... At first I didn't love the car, but after 5k miles or so I think it finally "broke in". The engine and transmission just seems that much better after. Steering is still a little too light and vague for my taste, but putting it in performance mode helps a lot. Just got my first service done and decided to purchase Audi Care to cover the next 3 services, so this is definitely a long term keeper for me. I don't know what's next, but it definitely WON'T be an M3, Macan GTS, or even a lower trim 992 911. The RS3 is such a good performer that to me those aforementioned competitors don't really offer that much extra. I would love to find a reasonably priced Huracan one day, but given I have a family on the way will most likely end up in an Urus. But for now, I'm just trying to enjoy the RS3 as much as I can.

[sniqow]

I test drove a Golf R & an RS3 in the same week, I put a deposit down on the Golf R.

That night I tossed and turned, all I could think about was the RS3 I test drove that week.

As fun as the Golf R was, and as nice as the offer that dealership gave me, I knew I just couldn't live with myself.

I ate $1000 on that deposit and waited on the right RS3 to come along & it did.

I love this car, like many of you I've owned many cars before it but this is something special, and my favorite.

[Jetdriver]

That's surprising to hear. I think car and driver only got a low 12 1/4mi time in their testing. Trap was like 117mph. I know they're incredible (like our cars) when modded, but a low 12sec car is not exciting these days

12 seconds for what? The M3? With the RWD M3, maybe, but from a roll, it's a monster. I'm sure it'd out roll an RS3, but these M3c's are dynoing almost 500whp. The x-Drive M3 will run low 11's all day long at 120+.

[JBones81]

12 seconds for what? The M3? With the RWD M3, maybe, but from a roll, it's a monster. I'm sure it'd out roll an RS3, but these M3c's are dynoing almost 500whp. The x-Drive M3 will run low 11's all day long at 120+.

Yea, the rwd one is the one they tested. I know that some other test got a 2.8sec to 60 run in the competition xdrive with a few other options. Sub 3.0 to 60 is what I would consider to be very fast for a stock car, at this point.

[LePianoMan]

I think my modding days are past me. At least in terms of tunes and trying to make big power. Ive always found that anyone who goes that route ends up being unhappy as i think they are chasing something unobtainable. That being said i'm not against things like FBO or mostly QOL mods to make the driving experience better. I'm not trying to turn this car into a racecar by any means and if anything am just looking to actually have a comfy car for once that can still hold its own.

I'm currently deciding what exhaust system i want to go with. I'm not gonna touch the cats at all as i want to stay compliant for CARB. I did spec the carbon package so hoping that will basically take care of any external flare i might have added myself. Other than that i cant really think of anything else that i might want to do.

As a fellow CARB-compliant state guy - I just bought a unitronic downpipe. As I understand it, the best (or one of the best) sounding systems with a stock downpipe on this car is the Bull-X exhaust by HG Motorsport (sold by EMD Auto in the USA). I just ordered that for myself as well. The stock exhaust is great but I'm crazy so I want more. Going from stage 1+ 93 to stage 2 93 (both Uni tunes) for no reason other than sound pretty much. It's not a huge power bump.

I'd say a stage 1+ tune from Unitronic is super worth it. I drove the car fully stock other than some catless midpipes for 8k miles to make sure I reeeeeally wanted the extra power and responsiveness and I couldn't be happier I chose to tune. It's really how the car should have come from factory, as cliche as that might sound. Everything's already effortless with this thing but it just becomes a little smoother and a little tighter and just makes it so much better all around. For a while now I've been running the 1+ tune on a 4" 034 intake and inlet, 18" neuspeed RSE11R wheels, midpipes, and nothing else. I had H&R VTF (adjustable) springs on the car at one point when I was running 255/35/18 tires and although the fitment looked great my ride was pretty bouncy in anything but dynamic so now I'm on 245/40/18 tires and stock springs. The fitment is acceptable IMO and the ride is MUCH better. Not that I really mind always driving in dynamic, but it's nice having the option to drive in auto or comfort suspension modes and enjoying that ride without bouncing all over the place, haha. I can't really make up my mind if the extra sidewall has made a real impact on my ride quality since I went back to stock springs and swapped tires at the same time but it can't be too bad. I don't ever race my car (like literally never) and really just like throwing some back roads or summer cruises at it so I don't really need the springs or lower sidewalls&wider widths for handling.

I think the sweet spot for sound is probably stage 1+ E85 or stage 2 any octane. For some weird reason, with Unitronic on stage 1+ 93 you don't get full open exhaust valves in dynamic and the slightly increased pops/bangs that you get with stage 1+ E85 so the sound will be randomly muffled and you'll hear the valves open up at 3500ish RPM. I also am not a fiend for pops and bangs really but I do enjoy them and after tuning I've actually heard them a lot less except for in very specific weather conditions. I travel a decent bit so the E85 tune isn't a viable option for me so I'm going stage 2 with uni's downpipe which is emissions compliant everywhere but california iirc. Also with Unitronic's stage 1+ tunes you have to get their stage 2 TCU tune and I would suggest getting a dogbone mount and inserts. I've had some shifts that were hard enough to make me wince at the least and at worst I actually thought I broke my car on a 1-2 shift while launching. This isn't everyone's experience on their stage 2 TCU tune but it has been mine and while I'm in the minority I'm a safe than sorry kinda guy as this is my daily.

This car stock is still fun stock though. Drive it and when you start getting settled in or itching for mods, go catless midpipes- they'll give you a decent 10-15% increase in sound. Then go Bull-X and lose your mind...or so I've heard. I'll drop some more sound clips of my setup (afaik none on youtube of uni DP with bullx) when I have it on but @socalrs has some clips on his instagram on the stock downpipe that should be similar. From what I've heard the uni DP doesn't really add much volume if any over the stock DP and I'm expecting the tune's changes to the valve behavior will create a more major impact.

Sorry for the looooooooooong response but I figured you would appreciate it since it seems like what we're looking for out of our RS3's is similar. I bought my car at 32.7k miles last April and crossed 50k miles last week. This thing is a work of art.

[LePianoMan]

8Y RS3 owner here... At first I didn't love the car, but after 5k miles or so I think it finally "broke in". The engine and transmission just seems that much better after. Steering is still a little too light and vague for my taste, but putting it in performance mode helps a lot. Just got my first service done and decided to purchase Audi Care to cover the next 3 services, so this is definitely a long term keeper for me. I don't know what's next, but it definitely WON'T be an M3, Macan GTS, or even a lower trim 992 911. The RS3 is such a good performer that to me those aforementioned competitors don't really offer that much extra. I would love to find a reasonably priced Huracan one day, but given I have a family on the way will most likely end up in an Urus. But for now, I'm just trying to enjoy the RS3 as much as I can.

I've been all over the place with cars - GT86, challenger scat pack widebody, s5 sportback - and I tend to jump around a lot. The RS3 is the first car that while it hasn't completely erased that itch, I haven't acted on it because NOTHING out there ticks all the boxes for me like this car does. Audi knocked it way out the park with this car.

[JBones81]

I've been all over the place with cars - GT86, challenger scat pack widebody, s5 sportback - and I tend to jump around a lot. The RS3 is the first car that while it hasn't completely erased that itch, I haven't acted on it because NOTHING out there ticks all the boxes for me like this car does. Audi knocked it way out the park with this car.

Yea, that pretty much exactly matches my experience with the rs3. I always jumped from car to car to car every year or 2. The rs3, while not completely ridding me of those thoughts, is too perfect to risk giving it up and getting something else that puts me back on the path to switching up cars so much.

[S3DUDE]

If you love the 8V, you'll love the 8Y. Minus the power, i don't miss anything on the 8V RS3 i had. If there was no RS3 available, i would probably consider a M3 xdrive.

Amen!!! Can we get this guy(you) promoted? I Echo what you just said. I had my 8V RS3 for 4 years and it was wonderful, I thought it was a great all round car until I test drove my wife's RS3 8Y and I went and I did a pre-traded for another 8YRS3 even knowing that I would lose money with all the bolt ons in the car but in my humble opinion the 8Y is an improved version of the 8V. If there was no RS3 I would have dived head on from the tallest cliff towards a X drive M2 but there is no X drive M2 yet and even though I tried to cancel my order on my current RS3 it would have taken me another year to grab a M2 personally spec'd.

[Vegasgolds]

even though I tried to cancel my order on my current RS3

So, you haven't canceled your order?

I'm buying my daughter's 2024 RS3 order that should be here in Vegas around Halloween and will probably be trading in my 2022 RS3 unless I get a buyer before hand

[JBones81]

So, you haven't canceled your order?

I'm buying my daughter's 2024 RS3 order that should be here in Vegas around Halloween and will probably be trading in my 2022 RS3 unless I get a buyer before hand

Why the change from your 22 to a 24?

[RS3TP]

The RS 3 is certainly an amazing vehicle. Our 2019 RS 3 now has 48,116 miles on it
of which 34,616 miles to date have been fast country back roads run at 10am - 2pm
when weather is good. Only changes we've made were the wheels/tires installing
18 inch Neuspeed alloy wheels and 245/40/ZR18 Pilot Sport tires, which was a
great improvement over the factory 19-inch wheels/tires. Been driving country
back roads for a great many years and now at 83 years old I am still able to
enjoy what our Audi delivers... THANK FULLY!
-Rod

God Bless you Rod, i wish I can do the same when I'm 80+. These RS3's are truly a joy to drive and I've had many cars. Love it 100%

[Vegasgolds]

Why the change from your 22 to a 24?

because my daughter placed an order last Sept. and now she's trying to buy a house and has to free up some debt. So I decided to buy her order.
She is going to place another order by the end of this month so it will arrive after she closes on her home purchase next June.

[Xxyion]

I test drove a Golf R & an RS3 in the same week, I put a deposit down on the Golf R.

That night I tossed and turned, all I could think about was the RS3 I test drove that week.

As fun as the Golf R was, and as nice as the offer that dealership gave me, I knew I just couldn't live with myself.

I ate $1000 on that deposit and waited on the right RS3 to come along & it did.

I love this car, like many of you I've owned many cars before it but this is something special, and my favorite.

It's so interesting how these two are so often cross shopped. I'm actually buying both. I have an RS3 on order (doesnt matter if i get a 2024 or 2025), and in the meantime i'm buying a Golf R. Once the RS3 gets here the Golf is being taken over by the wife, and i'll have the RS3.

[Xxyion]

As a fellow CARB-compliant state guy - I just bought a unitronic downpipe. As I understand it, the best (or one of the best) sounding systems with a stock downpipe on this car is the Bull-X exhaust by HG Motorsport (sold by EMD Auto in the USA). I just ordered that for myself as well. The stock exhaust is great but I'm crazy so I want more. Going from stage 1+ 93 to stage 2 93 (both Uni tunes) for no reason other than sound pretty much. It's not a huge power bump.

I'd say a stage 1+ tune from Unitronic is super worth it. I drove the car fully stock other than some catless midpipes for 8k miles to make sure I reeeeeally wanted the extra power and responsiveness and I couldn't be happier I chose to tune. It's really how the car should have come from factory, as cliche as that might sound. Everything's already effortless with this thing but it just becomes a little smoother and a little tighter and just makes it so much better all around. For a while now I've been running the 1+ tune on a 4" 034 intake and inlet, 18" neuspeed RSE11R wheels, midpipes, and nothing else. I had H&R VTF (adjustable) springs on the car at one point when I was running 255/35/18 tires and although the fitment looked great my ride was pretty bouncy in anything but dynamic so now I'm on 245/40/18 tires and stock springs. The fitment is acceptable IMO and the ride is MUCH better. Not that I really mind always driving in dynamic, but it's nice having the option to drive in auto or comfort suspension modes and enjoying that ride without bouncing all over the place, haha. I can't really make up my mind if the extra sidewall has made a real impact on my ride quality since I went back to stock springs and swapped tires at the same time but it can't be too bad. I don't ever race my car (like literally never) and really just like throwing some back roads or summer cruises at it so I don't really need the springs or lower sidewalls&wider widths for handling.

I think the sweet spot for sound is probably stage 1+ E85 or stage 2 any octane. For some weird reason, with Unitronic on stage 1+ 93 you don't get full open exhaust valves in dynamic and the slightly increased pops/bangs that you get with stage 1+ E85 so the sound will be randomly muffled and you'll hear the valves open up at 3500ish RPM. I also am not a fiend for pops and bangs really but I do enjoy them and after tuning I've actually heard them a lot less except for in very specific weather conditions. I travel a decent bit so the E85 tune isn't a viable option for me so I'm going stage 2 with uni's downpipe which is emissions compliant everywhere but california iirc. Also with Unitronic's stage 1+ tunes you have to get their stage 2 TCU tune and I would suggest getting a dogbone mount and inserts. I've had some shifts that were hard enough to make me wince at the least and at worst I actually thought I broke my car on a 1-2 shift while launching. This isn't everyone's experience on their stage 2 TCU tune but it has been mine and while I'm in the minority I'm a safe than sorry kinda guy as this is my daily.

This car stock is still fun stock though. Drive it and when you start getting settled in or itching for mods, go catless midpipes- they'll give you a decent 10-15% increase in sound. Then go Bull-X and lose your mind...or so I've heard. I'll drop some more sound clips of my setup (afaik none on youtube of uni DP with bullx) when I have it on but @socalrs has some clips on his instagram on the stock downpipe that should be similar. From what I've heard the uni DP doesn't really add much volume if any over the stock DP and I'm expecting the tune's changes to the valve behavior will create a more major impact.

Sorry for the looooooooooong response but I figured you would appreciate it since it seems like what we're looking for out of our RS3's is similar. I bought my car at 32.7k miles last April and crossed 50k miles last week. This thing is a work of art.

Thanks for all the info! I'll look into the exhaust that you recommended. I want something that will make me giggle when i'm going full throttle but tame enough for driving around town. I'll probably just drive it stock for the most part. This is going to be my daily and i generally dont really like to tune my dailies. Also i want to save my money for my other cars. Hoping to get a Ferrari 360 in a year or so after i get the RS3 so i know i'm gonna have to spend a pretty penny for that.

[Fixeroh]

I want to echo JBones81's thoughts on the RS3 8V. Sold my 2015 stage 2+ S3 to my daughter and picked up my new 2018 RS3. Stage 1 on 93 octane and a sweet Miltek exhaust are the only mods. Clear bra on the entire front end keep it protected. Just love this car. Only thing that puts a smile on my face EVERY time I get inside. It's been flawless. Doesn't use oil and no coolant issue. I admit to be being unfaithful and reading about the 8Y however. Was originally going to get a 8Y because I semi understood it may be the last RS3 every produced. However, Audi seems to have backed off on going full EV according to my dealer rep. Seems 30% electric is the near future goal. Gives us 5 cylinder kinda guys more hope for the future!!! Now if we could just convince the bean counters in Germany that we would buy hatchbacks..............................

[Rod Paine]

God Bless you Rod, i wish I can do the same when I'm 80+. These RS3's are truly a joy to drive and I've had many cars. Love it 100%

Thank you RS3TP. I hope you find that an RS 3 is an ideal automobile for you and that you spend
a great deal of time driving it and coming to know in detail what this vehicle is actually capabile of as your
time in it builds up. Now at 83 years old I've had some wonderful vehicles in my life and our 20129 Audi
RS 3 has put quite a lot of big grins on this old face, as we really push it to see how it and we do, on our
favorite country back roads at speed, as weather permits. Only disapointment was the 19-inch factory
tire and wheel configuration it had, which we fixed within 3 days involving 245/40/18 tires on Neuspeed
18x8.5 wheels, which has been a very good combination, now at 48,335 total miles to date, of which
34,710 miles have been very fast country back roads 10am to 2pm as weather permits.
-Rod

[Xxyion]

Thank you RS3TP. I hope you find that an RS 3 is an ideal automobile for you and that you spend
a great deal of time driving it and coming to know in detail what this vehicle is actually capabile of as your
time in it builds up. Now at 83 years old I've had some wonderful vehicles in my life and our 20129 Audi
RS 3 has put quite a lot of big grins on this old face, as we really push it to see how it and we do, on our
favorite country back roads at speed, as weather permits. Only disapointment was the 19-inch factory
tire and wheel configuration it had, which we fixed within 3 days involving 245/40/18 tires on Neuspeed
18x8.5 wheels, which has been a very good combination, now at 48,335 total miles to date, of which
34,710 miles have been very fast country back roads 10am to 2pm as weather permits.
-Rod

If i'm not you in 40 years then i've done something wrong with my life.

[DarthBalls]

So this is my first RS3 (2023 8Y), but I've owned a few Audi's and many other cars. I'm still getting familiar with the car, had it for a little over a month and 800 miles, but about 500 of those was a quick day trip to the coast. I think what I'm most surprised at is the overall handling of the car, with those skinny tires it actually holds the road really well. I didn't opt for the Trofeo R's as I'll more than likely just buy a 2nd set of tires with sticky rubber for track days, but I imagine it's even better with stickier tires. I think the steering is still light, even in RS mode, but not terrible. I did finally launch the car this weekend, and it's quick. I'm getting used to the DCT, it's a little Jeckell and Hyde in that when you are putting around its a little laggy, but when you're on it, the shifts are bang on. I'm a little spoiled by my GT3 and the PDK, have to remind myself that I can't really compare the 2. But overall it's a super fun car so far. I think on my road trip we got 31 mpg and in comfort mode it's pretty tame. My wife even drove it the other day...and she doesn't like sitting low in cars, but actually enjoyed it. Looking forward to taking it to the track and finding the limits of the car. Plan on taking it to stage 1+, I think this car at around 500hp will be perfect. Not sure I need a 600hp+ airstrip monster...but you never know. :) But the value of what these things are, mine was 67K is pretty amazing. Sure it's still based on an A3 and some of the interior is on the cheaper side, but what you get from a performance standpoint is pretty amazing...with potential for a lot more.

[8STTRS]

My wife and I toy with the idea of selling our cars on the regular. I, for one, really miss my C7 Z06. I've always felt like that car is more me. But, I always think about the viability of moving on from this platform to another. I really don't want to go through the process of building cars again and I know I'll still modify whatever it is I'm buying so, what am I really doing? I don't particularly look forward to driving my car, nor do I grin from ear to ear when I get out of it. My wife, however, still loves to drive her car and enjoys every second of her ownership of it.

I feel like I need to really tighten up the suspension on my car before I'll start to enjoy it at all. The stock TT RS MRC suspension feels so incredibly sloppy and lacks any kind of confidence inspiring behavior that I just get really disappointed with it when I take it out. Mind you, it has KW HAS springs, 034 locking collars, 034 engine and trans mounts, 034 rear sway bar and end links, and ECE dog bone mount.

[Xxyion]

So this is my first RS3 (2023 8Y), but I've owned a few Audi's and many other cars. I'm still getting familiar with the car, had it for a little over a month and 800 miles, but about 500 of those was a quick day trip to the coast. I think what I'm most surprised at is the overall handling of the car, with those skinny tires it actually holds the road really well. I didn't opt for the Trofeo R's as I'll more than likely just buy a 2nd set of tires with sticky rubber for track days, but I imagine it's even better with stickier tires. I think the steering is still light, even in RS mode, but not terrible. I did finally launch the car this weekend, and it's quick. I'm getting used to the DCT, it's a little Jeckell and Hyde in that when you are putting around its a little laggy, but when you're on it, the shifts are bang on. I'm a little spoiled by my GT3 and the PDK, have to remind myself that I can't really compare the 2. But overall it's a super fun car so far. I think on my road trip we got 31 mpg and in comfort mode it's pretty tame. My wife even drove it the other day...and she doesn't like sitting low in cars, but actually enjoyed it. Looking forward to taking it to the track and finding the limits of the car. Plan on taking it to stage 1+, I think this car at around 500hp will be perfect. Not sure I need a 600hp+ airstrip monster...but you never know. :) But the value of what these things are, mine was 67K is pretty amazing. Sure it's still based on an A3 and some of the interior is on the cheaper side, but what you get from a performance standpoint is pretty amazing...with potential for a lot more.

I don't think anything can really match up to a Porsche GT car and a PDK. It's just too good. My GT4 definetly spoiled me when it comes to Dual Clutch Transmissions. That being said, i'm glad to hear that the DCT in the RS3 has some spunk to it. I was a bit worried as i did test drive an S3 and it was pretty sluggish even while on throttle which worried me a bit. I'm excited to receive mine in a year or so and i will also be taking it to the track. I'm in California as well so maybe i'll see you out there one of these days.

[Woobachuckie]

Bought my 19' RS3 in August 2021 with 30k on it. It's now Stage 2 e85 with 89k miles. Hasn't skipped a beat, except when I melted an injector retainer(HOW IDK), and it just keeps making me smile. I have access to a lot of fun fast cars and it's just so good.