Audi RS 3 8P
The genesis of the 'hyper-hatch' era, powered by Audi's charismatic five-cylinder soul.
- Power
- 340 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 4.5 s
- Top speed
- 155 mph
- Est. value
- $25k–$65k
About the Audi RS 3 8P
The 8P-generation RS 3 Sportback marked the first time Audi applied its RennSport treatment to the A3, effectively creating the modern 'hyper-hatch' segment. It is defined by its 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine, a direct nod to the legendary Group B Ur-Quattro, which provides a distinctive off-beat soundtrack and immense mid-range punch. While criticized for its nose-heavy handling and stiff ride, its ability to deploy 340 PS through a quattro Haldex system made it a devastatingly effective all-weather point-to-point machine. Never sold in North America, it remains a sought-after modern classic for its rarity and mechanical purity compared to later, more digital iterations.
Audi RS 3 8P specs
The Audi RS 3 8P produces 340 bhp (254 kW) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
| Make | Audi |
|---|---|
| Model | RS 3 |
| Generation | 8P |
| Trim | RS 3 Sportback |
| Years | 2011–2012 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 5,500 built |
| Engine | 2.5-litre turbocharged inline-5 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,480 cc (2.5 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 340 bhp (254 kW) at 5,400 rpm |
| Torque | 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 4.5 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,575 kg (3,472 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 216 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an Audi RS 3 8P worth?
A typical Audi RS 3 8P is estimated to be worth $25,000 – $65,000 (about £19,000 – £48,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Audi RS 3 8P rarity in CarSpot
The Audi RS 3 8P is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 42 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 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 RS 3 8P fun facts
- The 8P RS 3 features wider front tyres (235/35) than rear tyres (225/35) to help combat the understeer inherent in its front-heavy chassis layout.
- Only 750 right-hand drive units were officially imported to the UK, making it significantly rarer than the subsequent 8V generation.
- The front wings are made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) to save weight and accommodate the widened track.