Avus Silver A3 2.0T FSI S-Line - Casual build thread (pic heavy)

Donny_DJ

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Hi all,
A few of you know me already as I’ve been on the forum for a few years now but decided it’s finally time to write up my own ‘casual’ build thread. I know you lot enjoy a pic or two so there's plenty here...

By way of introduction I’ve always been a petrol head. My first ‘real’ hot hatch was a Peugeot 205 1.9 GTi finished in rare Miami Blue bought for £2,000 near Fleet.

It was a K reg with PAS in standard guise but that didn’t last long. I soon lowered it, got some 16s, bodykitted by Pug Performance and fitted some ultra rare full leathers from a 309 GTi Goodwood.

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After a couple of years I then had my heart set on buying a 306 GTi-6. I remember seeing one on Moonstone Blue and ringing the guy but it had already sold – devastated. Then, my attention suddenly turned to Audi TTs! I saw a 225 in Denim Blue with matching blue interior and thought yeah why not. Got finance for £10k and took the plunge.
In the end only had it for about 7 months then decided to offload because the fuel consumption & impracticality was p*ssing me off.

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Saw this beautiful S3 (8L) in my favourite colour Kingfisher Blue down in Poole so went down to view & have a test drive. Snapped it off his hands for £9,500.
It was stock for about a week. I got a Revo remap, spacers, lowered on H&Rs, full black Recaro leather, and sourced some Audi TT S-Line alloys which I had refurbed in Black Chrome.
It looked the dogs dangleys I hope you agree (nice plate too :)):

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contd.....
 
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After a few years little niggly things started to go wrong with it EVERY month (well.. it had done 110k+) so decided it was time to look elsewhere. I still had a soft spot for TTs so when I saw this one in the same colour near Colchester I had to go for it. Unlike my first one it was essentially S-Line spec and had silver headlights & silver leather interior.
Didn’t really do much apart from spacers, silver calipers and flat bottom steering wheel upgrade.

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After another few years of happy motoring I started to look for something smaller, more refined & comfortable (ok ok, something less girly ;)). Looked at 8P S3s but at the time decent ones were going for £15k-£20k which was way out of my price range.

Done some more research and decided an A3 2.0T S-Line would fit the bill. Searched Autotrader and traveled up to Mansfield to collect the beauty. It had 53k, I was the 3rd owner, £8,800.

Turns out it was a Special Edition which I understand meant it came with a couple of extras thrown in like full black leather - happy days.

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This time round my my main aim was to do some subtle/mild OEM-esque mods.

(Sorry, I don't have a lot of 'before' photos btw...)

First up was some H&R 10+12mm spacers, Eibach Pro Kit springs and AMD remap. Car is now running approx 250 BHP so absolutely flies. I guess being non-Quattro it’s lighter so quick off the line and through the gears.

Also added some MY11 rear clusters which brought it nicely up to date.

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The engine bay was looking a very sorry state. The existing cover was cracked and the oil cap....well the less said the better. So managed to get an S3 engine cover from the Bay and a genuine R8 oil cap already modified to sit the right way up. Here's the result:

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Interior mods...

A billet aluminium genuine Audi S3 Special Edition Gearknob & gaiter and S3 handbrake handle with double white stitching. Really brightens up the inside:

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Next up......flat bottom steering wheel from an Audi S3. The S3 badge replaced with 'S-Line' one. Installed by Hazzy Dayz:

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And a lovely Concert stereo from a facelift 2009 plate. £35 from the Bay:

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Result:

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Got the wheels refurbed in black chrome via the Wheel Specialist:
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Bought a decent set of OEM Audi RS3 19" Rotors from @Rothery93:

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Got some new bolt covers for a tenner from Cardiff Audi, before & after:
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FUTURE PLANS:
  • Bilstein B12 Sportline damper & spring kit (booked in next week)
  • Cambelt & waterpump
  • Calipers painted silver
  • Miltek exhaust
  • Eibach Anti-roll bars
  • Toyo T1 tyres 225/35/19
  • TTS engine cover
Appreciate your thoughts as always :)
Cheers
Donny
 
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Nice nice! TTS Engine cover from where? Got mine remapped the other day too! I've got same engine! 2nd and 3rd gear is a scary place to floor it lol
 
Nice thread. I like the cars you have had previously too although I prefer the 205 when it was still close to standard. I've got an Akoya Silver 8P with the 18" S-line wheels too (wheels are in desperate need of a refurb though). Looking forward to some updates.

EDIT: Just noticed that your thread mentions that it is Avus silver? Don't know if there has been a name change but they look very similar in colour!

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View attachment 73634[/QUOTE]
Nice nice! TTS Engine cover from where? Got mine remapped the other day too! I've got same engine! 2nd and 3rd gear is a scary place to floor it lol

Yeah you can pick them up from eBay or TPS - freshens up the engine bay. Remap has to be done - where did you get yours done? Yeah losing your license territory! Glad you're enjoying yours ;). Any plans?

Nice thread. I like the cars you have had previously too although I prefer the 205 when it was still close to standard. I've got an Akoya Silver 8P with the 18" S-line wheels too (wheels are in desperate need of a refurb though). Looking forward to some updates.

EDIT: Just noticed that your thread mentions that it is Avus silver? Don't know if there has been a name change but they look very similar in colour!

View attachment 73634

Thanks buddy. Yeah I agree, shuda kept the pug standard tbh. The guy I sold it to turned it into a cabrio, no idea why or how! Yep they're two similar silvers but different colours; Akoya has a hint of purple and Avus has a hint of blue! Nice motor, any plans?
 


Yeah you can pick them up from eBay or TPS - freshens up the engine bay. Remap has to be done - where did you get yours done? Yeah losing your license territory! Glad you're enjoying yours ;). Any plans?



Thanks buddy. Yeah I agree, shuda kept the pug standard tbh. The guy I sold it to turned it into a cabrio, no idea why or how! Yep they're two similar silvers but different colours; Akoya has a hint of purple and Avus has a hint of blue! Nice motor, any plans?[/QUOTE]

Got mine done by flash remapping..check them on Facebook or google!
Check my thread..My A3 2.0 TFSi Sportback Build Thread and YouTube channel!

http://www.audi-sport.net/xf/index.php?threads/My-A3--2.0-TFSi-Sportback-Build-Thread.245194/

Doing double din install Christmas/new year :)
 
Yeah you can pick them up from eBay or TPS - freshens up the engine bay. Remap has to be done - where did you get yours done? Yeah losing your license territory! Glad you're enjoying yours ;). Any plans?



Thanks buddy. Yeah I agree, shuda kept the pug standard tbh. The guy I sold it to turned it into a cabrio, no idea why or how! Yep they're two similar silvers but different colours; Akoya has a hint of purple and Avus has a hint of blue! Nice motor, any plans?

Got mine done by flash remapping..check them on Facebook or google!
Check my thread..My A3 2.0 TFSi Sportback Build Thread and YouTube channel!

http://www.audi-sport.net/xf/index.php?threads/My-A3--2.0-TFSi-Sportback-Build-Thread.245194/

Doing double din install Christmas/new year :)[/QUOTE]

Nice mods buddy, you've inspired me to use a couple of them actually ;)
 
Small update. Car is currently at VolksAutos getting these beauties fitted. It's the Bilstein B12 Sportline kit. Pics to follow in the next day or so :)

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The Billies are now on and I'm really impressed...

Early Xmas present:
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Pic sent from Volks Autos:
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Washed
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TBH I was expecting a lower drop particularly at the front but hopefully it will settle further over the next few hundred miles. I might squeeze some 8mm spacers on soon to help the look.

Verdict: The ride feels better than OEM probably down to the B8 gas dampers and the handling round corners is immense, just like it's on rails.
These are definitely recommended if your budget allows.

Will take more pics when I get a chance.
Cheers
Donny
 
Really liking what you've done with your A3.

Particularly some of the interior touches, really brings it up to date.

It looked a bit odd with the 19's to me before the B12 kit, but looks absolutely spot no now!
 
Are you selling your original alloys?
They're currently garaged as I was planning on putting them back on the car when I sell. Two are a little kerbed, two are perfect and all tyres are good. I could be tempted if you make me an offer - PM me :)

Looks nice mate nice mods
Thanks mate.

I have the B8 kit mines didnt drop anymore which is a shame could donwith another 25mm
Yeah strange eh? What springs you running? If there's no change after a few hundred miles I might look at H&R springs or something if it really bothers me.

Really liking what you've done with your A3.

Particularly some of the interior touches, really brings it up to date.

It looked a bit odd with the 19's to me before the B12 kit, but looks absolutely spot no now!

Cheers. Yeah it's weird as once you fit 19s you look at pics of the car with 18s and they look tiny :O. I might swap out the chrome gearknob for an 8V S-LIne one soon. Lots of plans in pipeline but only when funds allow!
 
Cheers. Yeah it's weird as once you fit 19s you look at pics of the car with 18s and they look tiny :O. I might swap out the chrome gearknob for an 8V S-LIne one soon. Lots of plans in pipeline but only when funds allow!

Liking the 8V gearknob, very R8!
 

Thanks buddy. Yeah I agree, shuda kept the pug standard tbh. The guy I sold it to turned it into a cabrio, no idea why or how! Yep they're two similar silvers but different colours; Akoya has a hint of purple and Avus has a hint of blue! Nice motor, any plans?[/QUOTE]

Haha would like to see how that looks. Yeah that makes sense, both very good colours. Cheers, well depends really! I've spent quite a bit on maintenance. One thing that really needs doing are the wheels; they really need a refurb. I've got an Ipod/bluetooth kit and some Powerflex wishbone bushes fitted, but other than that it's all standard. oh and some pistonheads stickers! I would like to lower it and put some spacers on the rear and leave it that, but will only be more inclined to do it if the standard shocks/springs become excessively worn or something. The S-Line ride isn't great if I'm honest, coming from a very comfy Ford Fiesta.

Are you happy with the 12mm spacers or would you space them out further on yours? I'm guessing you just fitted them to the rear?
 
They're currently garaged as I was planning on putting them back on the car when I sell. Two are a little kerbed, two are perfect and all tyres are good. I could be tempted if you make me an offer - PM me :)


Thanks mate.


Yeah strange eh? What springs you running? If there's no change after a few hundred miles I might look at H&R springs or something if it really bothers me.



Cheers. Yeah it's weird as once you fit 19s you look at pics of the car with 18s and they look tiny :O. I might swap out the chrome gearknob for an 8V S-LIne one soon. Lots of plans in pipeline but only when funds allow!


Same as you Eibach springs
 
Liking the 8V gearknob, very R8!
Yeah I am working towards an actual R8...one day, ha.

Haha would like to see how that looks. Yeah that makes sense, both very good colours. Cheers, well depends really! I've spent quite a bit on maintenance. One thing that really needs doing are the wheels; they really need a refurb. I've got an Ipod/bluetooth kit and some Powerflex wishbone bushes fitted, but other than that it's all standard. oh and some pistonheads stickers! I would like to lower it and put some spacers on the rear and leave it that, but will only be more inclined to do it if the standard shocks/springs become excessively worn or something. The S-Line ride isn't great if I'm honest, coming from a very comfy Ford Fiesta.

Are you happy with the 12mm spacers or would you space them out further on yours? I'm guessing you just fitted them to the rear?

Yep talking from experience I'd recommend a refurb. After I did my 18s in 'black chrome' (mirror effect) it looked like a new car and gives it a fresh look. Regarding spacers I did have 2 x 12mm at the back when I had my standard 18s (which brought the wheels out perfectly flush with the bodywork) but now I've put on the 19s I took the spacers off and sold them to a member on here cos it would've gave too much poke and caused all sort of issues like rubbing and failing MOT. Again I would recommend spacers though..10mm front and 12mm rear. Enhances the stance. What engine is yours? I have some Eibach Pro springs for sale if you're interested.

Same as you Eibach springs
Pro or Sportline though buddy? How long and miles have you had the B8 dampers on?
 
Front has now settled and exactly how I want it, really happy.

Comparison pic.

Top is Eibach Pro Kit springs and bottom is Bilstein B12 Sportline kit.

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Taken yesterday:

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Update Feb 2016 - bought a Milltek cat-back resonated exhaust with GT80 tips.

Mainly for looks tbh - and it does give a slightly better note on acceleration. Didn't go for non-res didn't want it to sound boyracer and the drone on the motorway wuda done my nut in!

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These arrived today... TTS 8J steering wheel, and A3 8V S-Line gearknob.

I'm continuing with the double-white stitching theme in my interior.

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I should be visiting Ash @ Audi Retrofits to get these fitted in the next week or so. The wheel is gona get the multi-function linked up and I'll replace the badge with an S-Line one. The gearknob is near-enough a straight swap but the 8P vs 8V bases are different shapes (see pic) so the staples will have to come out and plastic structure swapped over.

Will get pics up soon....
 
Looking good. I had an 06 s line special edition in red. Absolutely loved it. Unfortunately it was written off 4 years ago and I miss it still. Love what you have done to yours so far.
 
One of my friends is upgrading his A3 to the 8V and is stripping the car back to standard... has a set of TT vents for sale that will match that gear knob. needs an original set of vents for swaps plus cash if your interested.
Also have a load more parts for sale but i need to get pics and list them up.
 
Looking good. I had an 06 s line special edition in red. Absolutely loved it. Unfortunately it was written off 4 years ago and I miss it still. Love what you have done to yours so far.

Thanks buddy. Love red Audis! RIP to yours but hopefully you got something better...?!

One of my friends is upgrading his A3 to the 8V and is stripping the car back to standard... has a set of TT vents for sale that will match that gear knob. needs an original set of vents for swaps plus cash if your interested.
Also have a load more parts for sale but i need to get pics and list them up.

Cheers @Ash187 - defo interested in the vent swap. From a Mk2 TT right? Could you ask him what sorta money he's after pls - maybe we could do the swap when my car is with you. By the way I bought a Highline steering module off an R8: www.ebay.co.uk/itm/161976223738. The part no is 8P0953549F. Will let you know when it arrives!
 
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Ok, so the new interior mods are on and I'm ecstatic how it came out.

First of all, thanks to @Ash187 at Audi-Retrofits who did a fantastic job fitting them & generally being a top bloke....

Parts & price paid:

Audi TTS (8J) flat bottom steering wheel with double white stitching & multifunction - £150, eBay
Audi R8 highline steering module (8P0953549F) - £100, eBay
Audi A3 (8V) gearknob, chrome with perforated leather and double white stitching on gaiter - £70, eBay
Audi TT (8J) chrome air vents - £75 swap with my old vents.

Before:

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After:

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It feels like a new car with the new mods. Loving the multifunction too.

I will get some better close up pics up of the steering wheel in the next day or so....
 
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Thought I'd thought I'd share something which put a smirk on my face....

I'd put up a pic of my 'new' interior pic on Instagram a few days ago - and linked it to Twitter.

Then earlier today I got a comment from Audi UK complimenting me on the mods...how about that, wasn't expecting THAT :D


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Thought I'd thought I'd share something which put a smirk on my face....

I'd put up a pic of my 'new' interior pic on Instagram a few days ago - and linked it to Twitter.

Then earlier today I got a comment from Audi UK complimenting me on the mods...how about that, wasn't expecting THAT :D


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Probably worth asking them for some "assistance" in getting some leather grab handles and other nice bits and pieces, seen as you are plugging their brand! Car looks great and nice mods so far.
 
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Probably worth asking them for some "assistance" in getting some leather grab handles and other nice bits and pieces, seen as you are plugging their brand! Car looks great and nice mods so far.

Haha defo. Cheers for the comment @DJ_26 yeah I'm trying to mod the car but in 'stealth' mode ;)
 
Took a proper pic of the new steering wheel + a pic with Insta fx...

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The Milltek exhaust was bothering me because the tips stuck out too even though they were slid all the way in so went back and the garage managed to get it sitting 1cm further inwards which i think is perfect. Check out comparisons...

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Much better :)

Also downloaded a new app called SuperPhoto which lets you 'cartoonify' your pics...

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Got fed up of the rubbish halogen bulbs so went for some OEM Bi-Xenons to be fitted in the coming week. The visability is so poor with halogens even with uprated (30% brighter) Bosch bulbs.

The last straw for me was driving down a country road at night and seeing a speedhump very late, slammed on the brakes but still doing 30+ mph, nearly destroying a damper/alloy.

Got these off eBay. Will post before and after pics soon...

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The main man @Ash187 has done the business again.

Bi-Xenon headlights all fitted and hooked up as they should be..... and while I was there got a few other bits done. Absolutely chuffed with the results.

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Comparison pic. Standard halogen DRL bulb on left and upgraded custom LED DRL bulb on the right:

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Both custom LED DRL bulbs installed along with the upgraded light switch from an Audi TT with DRL control wired and fitted:
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Osram D1S 5500k Xenon bulbs installed. White LED interior light upgrade, and white LED rear number plate lights to complete modernisation:
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How did you get the LED DRL's to not bring up canbus errors?? Car looks really good, loving all the little details


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