Audi A3 8L
The car that defined the premium compact hatchback segment.
- Power
- 150 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 7.8 s
- Top speed
- 135 mph
About the Audi A3 8L
Launched in 1996, the Audi A3 (8L) was the first vehicle to utilise the Volkswagen Group's PQ34 platform, predating the iconic Golf Mk4. It successfully brought Audi's 'Vorsprung durch Technik' philosophy to the small family car sector, offering a significantly more upmarket interior than its rivals. The 1.8T SE trim provides a balanced blend of comfort and performance, featuring the versatile 20-valve turbocharged engine that became a staple of the VAG range. While not as aggressive as the S3, the 150 hp 1.8T offers a refined driving experience with a punchy mid-range, making it a highly usable modern classic today.
Audi A3 8L specs
The Audi A3 8L produces 150 bhp (112 kW) and 210 Nm (155 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 7.8 seconds and has a top speed of 135 mph (217 km/h).
| Make | Audi |
|---|---|
| Model | A3 |
| Generation | 8L |
| Trim | 1.8T SE |
| Years | 1996–2003 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Germany |
| Engine | 1.8-litre 20v turbocharged inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,781 cc (1.8 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 150 bhp (112 kW) at 5,700 rpm |
| Torque | 210 Nm (155 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 7.8 s |
| Top speed | 135 mph (217 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,175 kg (2,590 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 128 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
Audi A3 8L rarity in CarSpot
The Audi A3 8L is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Audi A3 8L fun facts
- The A3 was the first Volkswagen Group model to use the PQ34 platform, which later underpinned the VW Golf Mk4, SEAT León, and Audi TT.
- The 1.8-litre engine features a sophisticated five-valve-per-cylinder head design, a technology Audi shared with Ferrari at the time.
- Though the 8L generation was replaced in Europe in 2003, production continued in Brazil for the South American market until 2006.
