Prospective S3 owner from 320d a BMW 320d

[J3oef]

Hi folks,

I beleive this is now the correct forum section to post in having previously posted in 8p.

Currently have a BMW 320d and am looking to change to an Audi S3 Sportback. Have considered the m135i also.

Love the sound of the BMW but overall think the s3 will suit me better and slightly pips it.

I have a question regarding the exhaust on them.

From what year do you get the exhaust cackles/pops/farts/gurgles or whatever people describe them as. I'm looking at one which was first registered April 2015.

Is anyone able to shed any light or share any videos with regards to this as I can't see 5o find any on YouTube.

Also, what's ur opinion between the 135i and s3?

Cheers all

 

[Bells]

I’d never consider a 135i purely because of the weather we have 90% of the time in the UK and it being RWD, you can drive the S3 the same and put the power down no matter what the weather is like. Also the interior of the 135i is a huge let down compared to the S3 in my opinion.

The best sounding S3 exhaust is on the facelift models from a 66reg onwards these cars come with 310bhp, if you budget can stretch to that. You can also get things like the digital dash on the facelift which will help keep your car feeling up to date.

I’d avoid the late 2018 models where the power has been dropped to 300bhp as they contain the new filter on the exhaust and have lost a large majority of the exhaust sound.

 

[J3oef]

Thanks for your input. My primary concern with the 135i is exactly what your thoughts are too. I've been in neither yet so can't compare interiors, I find my 320d comfy and quiet albeit a little bland.

Would you happen to know of any videos which show the exhaust on a 2015 model? I think stretching to a 66 maybe just over my budget. Am I correct in saying the 66 models have the pulsing indicators etc?

 

[wab172uk]

In the dry, the M135i will be the quicker car. Will be the more interactive and more fun to drive.

However, the appeal of the S3 is that no matter what the weather, it'll go just as quickly thanks to AWD. The build quality, textures, and ergonomics are in the Audi's favour. For me the A3/S3 interior is best in class, by some margin.

Unless you need a Hatchback, look at the Saloons. They look even better.

Things to look out for, to make the S3 feel more special? Super Sport seats, Extended mano pur, B&O sound system, and comfort pack, which give you cruise control, and a few other bits that I can't quite remember.

For me as an overall package, the S3 beats the M135i. But it just depends on your own preference.

I wouldn't focus too much on the pops and farts from the exhaust, as a simple aftermarket system can give you the sound you need. But I think it's the FL 2017 onward S3 that come standard with the pops and farts.

 

[Bells]

Thanks for your input. My primary concern with the 135i is exactly what your thoughts are too. I've been in neither yet so can't compare interiors, I find my 320d comfy and quiet albeit a little bland.

Would you happen to know of any videos which show the exhaust on a 2015 model? I think stretching to a 66 maybe just over my budget. Am I correct in saying the 66 models have the pulsing indicators etc?

The only thing I’d say if you go for a pre-facelift I’d get the tech pack as you get a larger central screen which looks less dated and personally Super Sport Seats are a must for the type of car.

I think your best bet is probably YouTube for exhaust clips or maybe some members on here might be able to share. 66 reg models have swooping indicators, they may be more expensive but if you are financing the car you may be surprised at the figures between the two as the newer car should have a higher residual value.

 

[J3oef]

In the dry, the M135i will be the quicker car. Will be the more interactive and more fun to drive.

However, the appeal of the S3 is that no matter what the weather, it'll go just as quickly thanks to AWD. The build quality, textures, and ergonomics are in the Audi's favour. For me the A3/S3 interior is best in class, by some margin.

Unless you need a Hatchback, look at the Saloons. They look even better.

Things to look out for, to make the S3 feel more special? Super Sport seats, Extended mano pur, B&O sound system, and comfort pack, which give you cruise control, and a few other bits that I can't quite remember.

For me as an overall package, the S3 beats the M135i. But it just depends on your own preference.

I wouldn't focus too much on the pops and farts from the exhaust, as a simple aftermarket system can give you the sound you need. But I think it's the FL 2017 onward S3 that come standard with the pops and farts.

Most people seem to echo the same sentiments regarding the 135i being a better drive but offset it with the audi being the better all rounder. Of 4 people I've asked personally, 3 said audi and 1 the bmw.

Regarding the spec, I've been given this brief list but they can get the full list from audi on request. Would the below include some things you mentioned.

Specification -
• Audi MMI System
• Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System
• Bluetooth Telephone Equipment & Music Streaming
• DAB Radio iPod - AUX, USB, Bluetooth Connectivity
• Dual Climate Control Air Conditioning
• Flat Bottom Multifunction Leather Steering Wheel
• Heated Seats
• Full Black & Red S3 Leather Interior
• Cruise Control
• Automatic Wipers
• 6 Airbags - Drivers, Passengers, Full Side Curtain
• Rear Window Privacy
• Electric Folding Wing Mirrors
• Parking Sensors - Front & Rear Screen Display
• 18" Titanium Alloy Wheels
• Heated Door Mirrors
• Hill-start Assist Control
• Auto Dimming Rear View Mirror
• Black Edition S3 Body Kit - Brakes, Suspension and Exhaust Package
• Remote Central Locking
• Alarm Immobiliser
• Automatic Xenon Headlights and LED Day Running Lights

The only thing I’d say if you go for a pre-facelift I’d get the tech pack as you get a larger central screen which looks less dated and personally Super Sport Seats are a must for the type of car.

I think your best bet is probably YouTube for exhaust clips or maybe some members on here might be able to share. 66 reg models have swooping indicators, they may be more expensive but if you are financing the car you may be surprised at the figures between the two as the newer car should have a higher residual value.

I have a feel the seats you refer too are not in this car I've been looking at. Would I be correct in saying the sss are the ones with diamond stitching on the corners? They look unreal I must say and I think the tech pack is included but would need to ask further questions with regard to this.

 

[wab172uk]

Most people seem to echo the same sentiments regarding the 135i being a better drive but offset it with the audi being the better all rounder. Of 4 people I've asked personally, 3 said audi and 1 the bmw.

Regarding the spec, I've been given this brief list but they can get the full list from audi on request. Would the below include some things you mentioned.

Specification -
• Audi MMI System
• Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System
• Bluetooth Telephone Equipment & Music Streaming
• DAB Radio iPod - AUX, USB, Bluetooth Connectivity
• Dual Climate Control Air Conditioning
• Flat Bottom Multifunction Leather Steering Wheel
• Heated Seats
• Full Black & Red S3 Leather Interior
• Cruise Control
• Automatic Wipers
• 6 Airbags - Drivers, Passengers, Full Side Curtain
• Rear Window Privacy
• Electric Folding Wing Mirrors
• Parking Sensors - Front & Rear Screen Display
• 18" Titanium Alloy Wheels
• Heated Door Mirrors
• Hill-start Assist Control
• Auto Dimming Rear View Mirror
• Black Edition S3 Body Kit - Brakes, Suspension and Exhaust Package
• Remote Central Locking
• Alarm Immobiliser
• Automatic Xenon Headlights and LED Day Running Lights



I have a feel the seats you refer too are not in this car I've been looking at. Would I be correct in saying the sss are the ones with diamond stitching on the corners? They look unreal I must say and I think the tech pack is included but would need to ask further questions with regard to this.

Looks a decent spec apart from the car having the standard seats. Some don't mind them, but for me the Super Sport seats are a must. More supportive, and lifts the cabin to feel more special.

There are loads of S3's about. Go take a look at a few, and then you'll know if the SS seats are worth it or not.

 

[quattrorally]

I have a 16 reg, pre facelift.

i have dsg shift pops, but not much else. its a nice exhaust note, but no pops and bangs on over run. in hindsight, i wish i had saved more and gone for a facelift with the 7 speed gearbox(pfl has a 6 speed) and virtual cockpit.

 

[A4B9]

I’d never consider a 135i purely because of the weather we have 90% of the time in the UK and it being RWD, you can drive the S3 the same and put the power down no matter what the weather is like. Also the interior of the 135i is a huge let down compared to the S3 in my opinion.

The best sounding S3 exhaust is on the facelift models from a 66reg onwards these cars come with 310bhp, if you budget can stretch to that. You can also get things like the digital dash on the facelift which will help keep your car feeling up to date.

I’d avoid the late 2018 models where the power has been dropped to 300bhp as they contain the new filter on the exhaust and have lost a large majority of the exhaust sound.

I’ve got the m140i and it’s been absolutely fine to drive up here in the north east all year around, you just need to treat it with respect instead of treating the go fast peddle as an on/off switch

 

[JonW]

Pretty much of the same opinion as others.

Lad I work with has just bought a 67plate M140, I'm in a WLTP S3 Saloon and am imensly jealous of the way his car sounds, I do like the 6 pot in them and I personaly believe that car will hold its money really well now they've decided to go 4 pot.

The outside and interior styling is what puts me off.

Have you considered a Golf R/GTI Performance or Clubsport?

 

[PaulWhitt82]

had the Mlite before we swapped out for the TT

dont listen to what people say about UK weateh rand rear wheel drive - if you ar ethat bothered put a set of winters on them and it owuld out perform any haldex with summer tyres

positives for the M135i
- engine is a peach - we had a manual and did 105 mph in third gear
- driving position was really nice - load sof adjustement. however got terrible lumbar pain on long drives so lumbar support would be a must for me
- relatively cheap running costs with service pack
- never had one issue in 3.5 years

negatives
- terrible road noise. very tiresome on lomg jounerys
- wheels are a pin int he **** to clean with the gully
- cabin not as well finished as Audo and if you mamange to get VC in audi it will make the BMW feel very dated
- not great on fuel on short runs - long runs you can mamanbge high 30's if you are careful
- car never feels planted when pushing on - people have had to buy undervar brace (thats fitted to the 3door as standard) and fit beter eibach springs
- loads of reprots of exhaust valve rattle - I disoconnect the valve day one so never used the valve
- steering racks are common and not covered by BMW

if you go M140i ensure the dealer fits rockguards - so many have failed radiaotrs because there is literaly no protection and BMW will not even listen - its a 1k job to replace


I would personally get a M135i as its the last of its breed and glld I experienced it - however S3 is a great car also

 

[Peto]

I’d never consider a 135i purely because of the weather we have 90% of the time in the UK and it being RWD, you can drive the S3 the same and put the power down no matter what the weather is like. Also the interior of the 135i is a huge let down compared to the S3 in my opinion.

The best sounding S3 exhaust is on the facelift models from a 66reg onwards these cars come with 310bhp, if you budget can stretch to that. You can also get things like the digital dash on the facelift which will help keep your car feeling up to date.

I’d avoid the late 2018 models where the power has been dropped to 300bhp as they contain the new filter on the exhaust and have lost a large majority of the exhaust sound.

The louder sounds are actually in older 2013-2017

 

[J3oef]

Thanks for the opinions all, seem to all have very balanced yet varied views. I think I'm set on an S3, will be a different experience coming from the 320d rather than sticking with bmw again.

I've managed to find one which seems better specced than the last one. Does any one know if the tech pack includes dab as it doesn't state it.

Also, previous spec sheet mentioned a black edition body kit, suspension and exhaust package? Is this any different to the standard s3 exhaust system. I've attached the spec sheet.

 

[kevpuk]

What age are you looking for? Only ask as I know of a nice 67 reg.....
https://www.audi-sport.net/xf/threads/anyone-sold-their-s3-recently-looking-at-market-prices.411479/

(am I allowed to say that in here?)

 

[pburv]

Here's a video on a pre facelift startup and launch..

and here's a video on the facelift before new filter...

 

[Jcbmally]

Thanks for the opinions all, seem to all have very balanced yet varied views. I think I'm set on an S3, will be a different experience coming from the 320d rather than sticking with bmw again.

I've managed to find one which seems better specced than the last one. Does any one know if the tech pack includes dab as it doesn't state it.

Also, previous spec sheet mentioned a black edition body kit, suspension and exhaust package? Is this any different to the standard s3 exhaust system. I've attached the spec sheet.

This one is better spec'd mate and has the black styling (same as Black Edition). Suspension is the same unless it states Magnetic Ride and the exhaust is only different on the RS3. Go for it

 

[J3oef]

What age are you looking for? Only ask as I know of a nice 67 reg.....
https://www.audi-sport.net/xf/threads/anyone-sold-their-s3-recently-looking-at-market-prices.411479/

(am I allowed to say that in here?)

Way out of my league that buddy, I'm only looking at one's with a max budget of 18k and pcp seems to be better for me in terms on payments.

This one is better spec'd mate and has the black styling (same as Black Edition). Suspension is the same unless it states Magnetic Ride and the exhaust is only different on the RS3. Go for it

Tempted to, need to get rid of my current car though as it has a bank loan that needs paying off.

Also need to weigh up the potential deal and see if it makes sense.

Car is may 2015 registered. Full Audi SH, 51k, DSG oil done, mot 12 months, 7mm on all tyres, that spec I posted earlier in daytona grey.

I've been quoted 259/48 pcp with a balloon of 8157 at the end of 4 years.

Car they say is valued at 18k which seemed high to me but I guess they got to make money somewhere.

What do you think?? My first venture into pcp, always done finance or loan.

 

[wab172uk]

Way out of my league that buddy, I'm only looking at one's with a max budget of 18k and pcp seems to be better for me in terms on payments.



Tempted to, need to get rid of my current car though as it has a bank loan that needs paying off.

Also need to weigh up the potential deal and see if it makes sense.

Car is may 2015 registered. Full Audi SH, 51k, DSG oil done, mot 12 months, 7mm on all tyres, that spec I posted earlier in daytona grey.

I've been quoted 259/48 pcp with a balloon of 8157 at the end of 4 years.

Car they say is valued at 18k which seemed high to me but I guess they got to make money somewhere.

What do you think?? My first venture into pcp, always done finance or loan.

£18k is a fair price I think. And if that is the sticker price, then the have wriggle room in there too. Plus I take it you'll get a warranty with it?

Can you not trade your BMW in against it? Yes, you may get a bit more money selling private, but it could take weeks / months to sell.

Or see what WBAC will give you for it? I'm there tonight sticking my late father's Tuscon in. Yes, I could get another £1500-£2000 selling private, but it's in the way,. annoying the neighbours, and past car selling experience has taught me it can take weeks and weeks to sell. Then you have to put up with the knobheads and time-wasters.

 

[Jcbmally]

Way out of my league that buddy, I'm only looking at one's with a max budget of 18k and pcp seems to be better for me in terms on payments.



Tempted to, need to get rid of my current car though as it has a bank loan that needs paying off.

Also need to weigh up the potential deal and see if it makes sense.

Car is may 2015 registered. Full Audi SH, 51k, DSG oil done, mot 12 months, 7mm on all tyres, that spec I posted earlier in daytona grey.

I've been quoted 259/48 pcp with a balloon of 8157 at the end of 4 years.

Car they say is valued at 18k which seemed high to me but I guess they got to make money somewhere.

What do you think?? My first venture into pcp, always done finance or loan.

£18k is a fair price I think. And if that is the sticker price, then the have wriggle room in there too. Plus I take it you'll get a warranty with it?

Can you not trade your BMW in against it? Yes, you may get a bit more money selling private, but it could take weeks / months to sell.

Or see what WBAC will give you for it? I'm there tonight sticking my late father's Tuscon in. Yes, I could get another £1500-£2000 selling private, but it's in the way,. annoying the neighbours, and past car selling experience has taught me it can take weeks and weeks to sell. Then you have to put up with the knobheads and time-wasters.

What @wab172uk says mate, I'm a strong believer in the following. "If you like it, can afford it, happy with the deal then buy it". But I would try and get the APR lowered as well, even by 1% makes a difference. OR go down the loan route again as there is some good deals out there (2.9% at Sainsbury's bank).

 

[TYb]

What @wab172uk says mate, I'm a strong believer in the following. "If you like it, can afford it, happy with the deal then buy it". But I would try and get the APR lowered as well, even by 1% makes a difference. OR go down the loan route again as there is some good deals out there (2.9% at Sainsbury's bank).

Santander also 2.9%, that’s how I’ve financed mine. Sainsbury is potentially Santander

 

[JohnM100]

Not valid to compare S3 exhaust and RS3 exhaust noise - they are different beasts.

All cars in MY14 (built starting June 2013) and later have DAB as standard. If it has DAB, it also covers DAB+

If budget stretches to a Facelift model, there are some benefits:
* stronger 7 speed S-Tronic gearbox vs 6 speed on pre facelift.
* LED headlights. Don’t get me wrong, Xenons are good but I have noticed a lot more LED headlights on the road over the last 6 months and they are brighter. Your 2nd spec car has adaptive Xenons - they were brilliant on country roads in my old car.
* factory option for virtual cockpit
* option for wired Apple CarPlay / Android auto.
* extra 10hp which you won’t notice

Whatever you get, do check for the interior lighting pack. It’s personal preference but consensus is that the lighting inside cars without it look fairly primitive in comparison.

 

[OCDaveS4]

Well I thought long and hard about 135/140i and S3 and although the BMW sounded better, the looks and interior quality won me over to the S3 - I drove both, and TBH the S3 felt quicker in terms of acceleration and responsiveness. Went with a FL saloon eventually with VC, SS seats and B&O. Only slight regret (coming from an Impreza STi) was that I didn’t go for the S4 V6 which IMO has a nicer sound (but mpg penalty!). But I think the S3 looks more sporty!

 

[J3oef]

@wab172uk Yes, the car will come with warranty and there's a few bits which i've asked about which they seem fine to sort out such as 2 new rear tyres as fronts have 7mm and rears 3mm he said. Relevant oil changes if not done for s tronic etc. Brake pads if they are low and a few other bits. The price they have to offer for my BMW was £4900 which is £100 less than WBAC.

The only issue doing it this way is I wont have the £1500 required for a deposit to get the PCP down. But I have now been looking at the option of getting a loan as suggested by @Jcbmally @TYb and buy it outright rather than PCP. I've done some figures and it seems like there is not much in it.

Example PCP is £259 x 48 = £12432 + £1500 deposit = £13,932 with a GMFV of £8157 which makes total £22,089 which is irrelevant as wouldn't buy at end of term.

Or Loan example £251 x 84 = £21,084 however if we break it down to the same term as PCP and do £251 x 48 = £12048 which would leave £9036 and then take away 3 years worth of interest given i'd ask for a settlement figure to settle the loan after 4 years, i worked out it would leave approx £8283 which is not too dissimilar to the GMFV on a PCP. I'd obviously need to shift the S3 on in years for a minimum of £8283 .

Pros of doing a loan are no deposit needed, i can shift my BMW to WBAC and settle off existing loan without it costing me anything and then start the cycle again. Hopefully those examples make sense, any opinions welcome

@JohnM100 Unfortunately a facelift is a bit too much of stretch for my budget, I could afford it but ideally i don't like to go higher than what i've been use to paying for the past so many years on cars. I have adaptive xenons on my current BMW and think they are fantastic so it's good that the second spec car has this, it also has the interior lighting pack which you mentioned going off that spec sheet above.

 

[pburv]

Given the choice again I wouldn't go down the pcp route..Reason being it is far more easier to settle finances if you run into difficulty paying ie you could sell your car any time whereas on pcp you need to pay at least 50% of finance before you can voluntary terminate agreement.
At the end of the day only you can decide which route you take...Good luck buddy

 

[J3oef]

Hey guys,
I'm going to be getting the S3 in Daytona Grey, hopefully pick it up on the 25th.

The place I'm getting it off is providing 6 months warranty with handler and says it's their good policy. He is asking if I would like this extending for 2 years which is approx £250?

Does anyone have any experience of this company and do you think it's worth the paper it's written on.

Do any of you guys have warranty etc?

Thanks

 

[pburv]

Hey guys,
I'm going to be getting the S3 in Daytona Grey, hopefully pick it up on the 25th.

The place I'm getting it off is providing 6 months warranty with handler and says it's their good policy. He is asking if I would like this extending for 2 years which is approx £250?

Does anyone have any experience of this company and do you think it's worth the paper it's written on.

Do any of you guys have warranty etc?

Thanks

If unsure try looking for your own warranty company and see what's available for £250.
I never took out an extended warranty on my car. Thought I would take the gamble on nothing major failing on the car.
ps Congrats on getting your new car

 

[J3oef]

I'll have a look but to be honest it's something I've never considered. Proper service/maintenance is always the way forward.

Another one re the car......the guy who sourced it seems to be getting it via auction from vindis group.....

Has anyone ever got someone to source a car? If so how did you find it? I'm being asked for payment upfront prior to see the car? What if there are issues when I get to view the car which is this weekend prior to collecting the car on the 25th?

 

[wab172uk]

I'll have a look but to be honest it's something I've never considered. Proper service/maintenance is always the way forward.

Another one re the car......the guy who sourced it seems to be getting it via auction from vindis group.....

Has anyone ever got someone to source a car? If so how did you find it? I'm being asked for payment upfront prior to see the car? What if there are issues when I get to view the car which is this weekend prior to collecting the car on the 25th?

Sourcing a car is not unusual. But more common on exotic stuff rather than Audi.

Say you want a GT3 manual in Red. Your local Porsche dealer will try and get you that car either by sourcing it from an existing customer, or via the trade. You

What's worrying for me, is that the company you are using is just going to an auction. They've never seen the car yet. Don't know it's history. They haven't bought the car yet, but yet they're trying to sell it to you already, and want a payment upfront? Sorry, but this doesn't sound right to me. Not on an Audi.

A warranty is a good thing. Maybe they are willing to chuck in a 6 month one to cover their backs in case the car turns out to be a dud? £250 for a 2 year warranty is a very good price. Maybe too good. You need to see what's included.

There are loads of S3's up for sale. Unless it was a Porsche, Ferrari etc, where sourcing is commonplace (they know the owners and may offer them a GT3 RS, if they are willing to give up their GT3) then I'd only buy from a garage (or network) where they physically had the car, and could vouch for it.

If you are happy with an auction car, just go to the auction yourself. Cut out the middle man.

 

[J3oef]

Hey, don't get me wrong I thought exactly the same but after speaking with them over the phone they have confirmed the car will be in pristine condition and if for whatever reason I am not happy or spot something they missed then it will be refunded. Service history it has but because it's with an auction company, he's still waiting on them to pull it through but says it's listing has been updated since to reflect 2 keys instead of 1,v5 present and such.

He expects it to come though and has confirmed that car has come from an Audi dealership, he also mentions if he cannot get them to find out things for me such as oil changes etc then he'll send it into audi for a full service prior to me getting it.

He'll also get the car fully checked over for issues and anything that needs doing will be done. If for any reason he gets the car from the auction and he's not happy with it or they didn't list something, he said they will rectify it or take the car back from him.

Said its had some 69 point check already and confirms they are usually quite good and detail anything relevant.

We actually used this place for my wife's TT albeit he didn't source it. He just had it as one of his stock cars and it's been fine since. No issues at all.

I did think about doing the auction thing myself but wondered how much I'll actually save if I had to get work carried out and such.

The warranty is handler gold cover so I'll have to check this out but as you say 250 sounded cheap.

Sourcing a car is not unusual. But more common on exotic stuff rather than Audi.

Say you want a GT3 manual in Red. Your local Porsche dealer will try and get you that car either by sourcing it from an existing customer, or via the trade. You

What's worrying for me, is that the company you are using is just going to an auction. They've never seen the car yet. Don't know it's history. They haven't bought the car yet, but yet they're trying to sell it to you already, and want a payment upfront? Sorry, but this doesn't sound right to me. Not on an Audi.

A warranty is a good thing. Maybe they are willing to chuck in a 6 month one to cover their backs in case the car turns out to be a dud? £250 for a 2 year warranty is a very good price. Maybe too good. You need to see what's included.

There are loads of S3's up for sale. Unless it was a Porsche, Ferrari etc, where sourcing is commonplace (they know the owners and may offer them a GT3 RS, if they are willing to give up their GT3) then I'd only buy from a garage (or network) where they physically had the car, and could vouch for it.

If you are happy with an auction car, just go to the auction yourself. Cut out the middle man.

 

[wab172uk]

Hey, don't get me wrong I thought exactly the same but after speaking with them over the phone they have confirmed the car will be in pristine condition and if for whatever reason I am not happy or spot something they missed then it will be refunded. Service history it has but because it's with an auction company, he's still waiting on them to pull it through but says it's listing has been updated since to reflect 2 keys instead of 1,v5 present and such.

He expects it to come though and has confirmed that car has come from an Audi dealership, he also mentions if he cannot get them to find out things for me such as oil changes etc then he'll send it into audi for a full service prior to me getting it.

He'll also get the car fully checked over for issues and anything that needs doing will be done. If for any reason he gets the car from the auction and he's not happy with it or they didn't list something, he said they will rectify it or take the car back from him.

Said its had some 69 point check already and confirms they are usually quite good and detail anything relevant.

We actually used this place for my wife's TT albeit he didn't source it. He just had it as one of his stock cars and it's been fine since. No issues at all.

I did think about doing the auction thing myself but wondered how much I'll actually save if I had to get work carried out and such.

The warranty is handler gold cover so I'll have to check this out but as you say 250 sounded cheap.

If you've dealt with the garage before, and have no reason to doubt them, then if the price is right, then go for it. I'd double check the warranty to make sure it covers the major components. Engine, Gearbox etc. But if that all looks good, then if it were me, I'd take out the extended warranty. You won't get one from anywhere else for £250 for 2 years.

 

[JonW]

What's stopping you from having a look for the auction or will they be for registered traders only?

It seems to me like he's got quite a bit of wriggle room in his margin if he's willing to have it serviced by Audi and to make sure its pristine.

I'd get everything they have agreed to in writing.

Whats up with 50% at order and 50% on delivery, rather than all up front? seems all the risk is with you IMHO.

 

[AllanG]

Personally, there’s no way I’d pay upfront for a car that I’d never seen, even if I’d dealt with the dealer previously with no problems.

I would only put down a small deposit of, say, £500 to £1000, which should be fully refunded if I decided not to go ahead with the purchase because of a defect I found when I actually viewed the car, and this should be agreed with the dealer in writing before handing over any money.

Anyway, good luck with your purchase.

 

[J3oef]

If you've dealt with the garage before, and have no reason to doubt them, then if the price is right, then go for it. I'd double check the warranty to make sure it covers the major components. Engine, Gearbox etc. But if that all looks good, then if it were me, I'd take out the extended warranty. You won't get one from anywhere else for £250 for 2 years.

What's stopping you from having a look for the auction or will they be for registered traders only?

It seems to me like he's got quite a bit of wriggle room in his margin if he's willing to have it serviced by Audi and to make sure its pristine.

I'd get everything they have agreed to in writing.

Whats up with 50% at order and 50% on delivery, rather than all up front? seems all the risk is with you IMHO.

Personally, there’s no way I’d pay upfront for a car that I’d never seen, even if I’d dealt with the dealer previously with no problems.

I would only put down a small deposit of, say, £500 to £1000, which should be fully refunded if I decided not to go ahead with the purchase because of a defect I found when I actually viewed the car, and this should be agreed with the dealer in writing before handing over any money.

Anyway, good luck with your purchase.

Lads, I've not gone ahead with it, even though it had the correct spec and seemed like a great package/deal. I wasn't comfortable in sending him that amount of money even though I've dealt with him before. He was adamant he needed it upfront and any issues would be resolved and if i was not happy then we could get the money back. All i requested was to see the car prior to sending that money, seems he was using the money to get from auction rather than his own. Nevermind, I've managed to find another which seems to have a near similar level of spec. Can anyone confirm a few things though, this is the extras list.....

• Comfort pack - A3 with adaptive cruise control and parking system plus
• Technology pack - A3 Hatchback/Sportback/RS3
• Storage and luggage pack - A3/RS3
• S sports suspension

• Adaptive cruise control
  £575
• Advanced key
  £425
• Audi active lane assist
  £450
• Audi parking system plus + park assist with front and rear sensors
  £835
• Electric adjustable/heated/folding door mirrors
  £150
• Pearl - Daytona grey
  £550
• Bang + Olufsen advanced sound system
  £750
• Comfort pack - A3 with adaptive cruise control and parking system plus
  £1,205
• Technology pack - A3 Hatchback/Sportback/RS3
  £1,495

Now the main listing only includes this though....

Interior

• Bang + Olufsen advanced sound system
• Audi music interface
• DAB Digital radio
• 3 adjustable rear headrests
• 3 spoke flat bottom multi-function leather steering wheel including paddle shift
• 4 lashing points to secure luggage
• 60/40 split folding rear seat
• Adjustable front armrest
• Aluminium door sill trims
• Cloth headlining
• Coat hooks on both sides
• Cup holders
• Driver seat undertray
• Driver/passenger sunvisors
• Dual zone electronic climate control
• Front and rear interior lights with delay
• Front seats - 'Easy Entry'
• Front/rear floor mats
• Heated front seats
• Height adjustable front seats
• Height/depth adjustable steering column
• Illuminated glovebox
• Illuminated luggage compartment
• ISOFIX child seat preparation+airbag deactivation
• Jack and tool kit
• Removable rear parcel shelf
• Stainless steel pedals
• Storage compartment in centre console
• Storage compartments in doors

Exterior

• Pearl - Daytona grey
• Electric adjustable/heated/folding door mirrors
• Aluminium door mirror housings
• Aluminium side window trim
• Body coloured bumpers
• Body coloured roof spoiler
• Chrome exhaust tailpipes
• Electric front windows
• Heated rear window
• Heated windscreen washer jets
• LED daytime running lights
• LED rear lights
• Platinum grey radiator grille with double chrome bars
• Rear wiper
• S body styling
• Twin exhaust tailpipe
• Aluminium air vent surrounds
• Aluminium trim elements
• Space saver spare wheel

Comfort
No features available.

Safety / Other
Safety

• Advanced key
• Audi active lane assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Audi drive select
• Colour driver's information system display
• Low washer fluid indicator
• Progressive power assisted steering
• Service interval indicator
• Voice control system
• 3 point seatbelts on all seats
• ABS/EBD
• Active bonnet
• Active front headrests
• ASR
• Curtain airbags
• Driver and passenger side airbags
• Driver/Front Passenger airbags
• Drivers knee airbag
• EDL
• Electromechanical parking brake
• ESC - Electronic Stability Control + traction control
• Front passenger airbag deactivation
• Seatbelt warning
• Tyre pressure monitor
• Warning triangle and first aid kit
• Anti-theft wheel bolts
• Remote control central locking
• Thatcham category 1 alarm + immobiliser
• Audi parking system plus + park assist with front and rear sensors

Can anyone please confirm, exactly what i will get with comfort pack and tech pack that is listed above?

Thanks

 

[wab172uk]

Lads, I've not gone ahead with it, even though it had the correct spec and seemed like a great package/deal. I wasn't comfortable in sending him that amount of money even though I've dealt with him before. He was adamant he needed it upfront and any issues would be resolved and if i was not happy then we could get the money back. All i requested was to see the car prior to sending that money, seems he was using the money to get from auction rather than his own. Nevermind, I've managed to find another which seems to have a near similar level of spec. Can anyone confirm a few things though, this is the extras list.....

• Comfort pack - A3 with adaptive cruise control and parking system plus
• Technology pack - A3 Hatchback/Sportback/RS3
• Storage and luggage pack - A3/RS3
• S sports suspension

• Adaptive cruise control
  £575
• Advanced key
  £425
• Audi active lane assist
  £450
• Audi parking system plus + park assist with front and rear sensors
  £835
• Electric adjustable/heated/folding door mirrors
  £150
• Pearl - Daytona grey
  £550
• Bang + Olufsen advanced sound system
  £750
• Comfort pack - A3 with adaptive cruise control and parking system plus
  £1,205
• Technology pack - A3 Hatchback/Sportback/RS3
  £1,495

Now the main listing only includes this though....

Interior

• Bang + Olufsen advanced sound system
• Audi music interface
• DAB Digital radio
• 3 adjustable rear headrests
• 3 spoke flat bottom multi-function leather steering wheel including paddle shift
• 4 lashing points to secure luggage
• 60/40 split folding rear seat
• Adjustable front armrest
• Aluminium door sill trims
• Cloth headlining
• Coat hooks on both sides
• Cup holders
• Driver seat undertray
• Driver/passenger sunvisors
• Dual zone electronic climate control
• Front and rear interior lights with delay
• Front seats - 'Easy Entry'
• Front/rear floor mats
• Heated front seats
• Height adjustable front seats
• Height/depth adjustable steering column
• Illuminated glovebox
• Illuminated luggage compartment
• ISOFIX child seat preparation+airbag deactivation
• Jack and tool kit
• Removable rear parcel shelf
• Stainless steel pedals
• Storage compartment in centre console
• Storage compartments in doors

Exterior

• Pearl - Daytona grey
• Electric adjustable/heated/folding door mirrors
• Aluminium door mirror housings
• Aluminium side window trim
• Body coloured bumpers
• Body coloured roof spoiler
• Chrome exhaust tailpipes
• Electric front windows
• Heated rear window
• Heated windscreen washer jets
• LED daytime running lights
• LED rear lights
• Platinum grey radiator grille with double chrome bars
• Rear wiper
• S body styling
• Twin exhaust tailpipe
• Aluminium air vent surrounds
• Aluminium trim elements
• Space saver spare wheel

Comfort
No features available.

Safety / Other
Safety

• Advanced key
• Audi active lane assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Audi drive select
• Colour driver's information system display
• Low washer fluid indicator
• Progressive power assisted steering
• Service interval indicator
• Voice control system
• 3 point seatbelts on all seats
• ABS/EBD
• Active bonnet
• Active front headrests
• ASR
• Curtain airbags
• Driver and passenger side airbags
• Driver/Front Passenger airbags
• Drivers knee airbag
• EDL
• Electromechanical parking brake
• ESC - Electronic Stability Control + traction control
• Front passenger airbag deactivation
• Seatbelt warning
• Tyre pressure monitor
• Warning triangle and first aid kit
• Anti-theft wheel bolts
• Remote control central locking
• Thatcham category 1 alarm + immobiliser
• Audi parking system plus + park assist with front and rear sensors

Can anyone please confirm, exactly what i will get with comfort pack and tech pack that is listed above?

Thanks

• Adaptive cruise control
  £575
• Advanced key
  £425
• Audi active lane assist
  £450
• Audi parking system plus + park assist with front and rear sensors
  £835
• Electric adjustable/heated/folding door mirrors
  £150
• Pearl - Daytona grey
  £550
• Bang + Olufsen advanced sound system
  £750
• Comfort pack - A3 with adaptive cruise control and parking system plus
  £1,205
• Technology pack - A3 Hatchback/Sportback/RS3
  £1,495

If they are the options it has, then that is a very well specced S3.

Have you got the link to the advert? Always better to see the pictures to go with the spec.

 

[J3oef]

• Adaptive cruise control
  £575
• Advanced key
  £425
• Audi active lane assist
  £450
• Audi parking system plus + park assist with front and rear sensors
  £835
• Electric adjustable/heated/folding door mirrors
  £150
• Pearl - Daytona grey
  £550
• Bang + Olufsen advanced sound system
  £750
• Comfort pack - A3 with adaptive cruise control and parking system plus
  £1,205
• Technology pack - A3 Hatchback/Sportback/RS3
  £1,495

If they are the options it has, then that is a very well specced S3.

Have you got the link to the advert? Always better to see the pictures to go with the spec.

Hi pal,

It's https://www.carreraspecialistcars.co.uk/search_page.php?make=6&model=0

Hopefully that works. Just realised it's not a sportback. Typical

 

[wab172uk]

Hi pal,

It's https://www.carreraspecialistcars.co.uk/search_page.php?make=6&model=0

Hopefully that works. Just realised it's not a sportback. Typical

Looks a very nice car that. Rare to see a Three door too. It's been well specced. Only negative for me, is the seats aren't the Supersport seats, but that's just me.

Steering wheel and seats look very shiny, which at recorded 42,000 look like a lot of wear. But then again, it might just be the refection off the lights and camera.

Price is strong, but I'm sure there is wriggle room from the dealer to make the deal more sweet.

Looking at the dealers stock list, they have some other nice cars in that are quite tasty too. M140i & M135i. Civic Type R. So clearly a dealer who likes his fast hatches.

Best go take a test drive and see what you think. Maybe run a car valuation check before hand, as they have a 2016 M140i in which is only £500 more, and less mileage. I'd try using that to get the price down on the S3. Plus bizarrely, they are offering the more expensive BMW for £38.78 less a month compared to the S3. So again, use that to get the same finance rate as they are charging for the BM. You want to be paying at least the same or less.

But car looks a good'un.

 

[J3oef]

This is why I like getting opinions as I never considered things which you have such as the steering wheel and seats being Shiney which could indicate wear.

Supersport seats look very nice but I've read negatives above the comfort compared to the standard sport seats.

I've not actually looked at their other stock so might take a look. With regards to wiggle room, I'll be using cash to buy the car rather than finance so do you think that's more of a bargaining tool?

Looks a very nice car that. Rare to see a Three door too. It's been well specced. Only negative for me, is the seats aren't the Supersport seats, but that's just me.

Steering wheel and seats look very shiny, which at recorded 42,000 look like a lot of wear. But then again, it might just be the refection off the lights and camera.

Price is strong, but I'm sure there is wriggle room from the dealer to make the deal more sweet.

Looking at the dealers stock list, they have some other nice cars in that are quite tasty too. M140i & M135i. Civic Type R. So clearly a dealer who likes his fast hatches.

Best go take a test drive and see what you think. Maybe run a car valuation check before hand, as they have a 2016 M140i in which is only £500 more, and less mileage. I'd try using that to get the price down on the S3. Plus bizarrely, they are offering the more expensive BMW for £38.78 less a month compared to the S3. So again, use that to get the same finance rate as they are charging for the BM. You want to be paying at least the same or less.

But car looks a good'un.

 

[Goner]

Steering wheel shine was the first thing i noticed if I'm honest but as said could be the camera angle/flash.

19K for a 5+ year old S3, seems strong money to me but none the less it does look like a nice machine!

 

[J3oef]

Exactly my feelings re the price for a 5 year old car. It seems I can get a very well speced m135i for around 17.5 - 18.5k and that's a 2016 model.

Steering wheel shine was the first thing i noticed if I'm honest but as said could be the camera angle/flash.

19K for a 5+ year old S3, seems strong money to me but none the less it does look like a nice machine!

 

[Goner]

Exactly my feelings re the price for a 5 year old car. It seems I can get a very well speced m135i for around 17.5 - 18.5k and that's a 2016 model.

Just been looking on the dealer website at them now.. i know where my money would be going and it wouldn't be the S3.

However, that's just my personal preference as i've got a real itch for a beemer next and it will be getting scratched.