Older Audi S3 good option or liabaility?

[Plicata]

I’m thinking of getting a second car for under $20K. Looking for something compact with a bit of character - Polo GTi, Golf / A3, Swift Sport etc. Have seen a couple of 8 – 10 year old S3’s listed for around $20K and was wondering if they’re worth considering or whether I’d just be buying trouble? They are manual transmission, which means no DSG to worry about, but what about the AWD and engine? They are all around 70 – 100,000 KM, so I guess they could be coming up for some expensive repairs. What do owners of older A3 / S3’s think?

[gareth_oau]

I bought a 2000 S3 about 2 yrs ago, with 89k on the clock and its just clocked 100k. Its also had the APR reflash, exhaust etc, so its putting out around 200KW vs 154 standard.

Since buying it, maintenance-wise Ive:

replaced the Head Unit (the Concert HU has a common problem) ($200ish)
replaced a rubber boot somewhere or other ($80)
replaced the N75 valve ($250)
replaced thermostat ($150)
replaced aircon compressor ($1500)
also needs a regulator in window to be replaced ($250ish)

all prices include labour costs.

I could have saved a lot of money there, but work pays, so I'm not too fussed

(ive also installed a short-shifter, dogbone, coilovers and cupra lip, but thats not maintenance)

Its a sensational car to own, but could be a bit expensive to maintain, depending on what standards you expect.

I dont regret buying mine, its a gem to drive.

If you do go that route, make sure you get one with the cam belt already done, as thats a $1500 service item

[Plicata]

Thanks Gareth. I couldn't have asked for a more informative response. :-)

[gareth_oau]

if you are a bit keen, join ozAudi Australian Audi Car Enthusiast Forum (http://www.ozaudi.com) there are a couple for sale there, owned by enthusiasts and you can ask more questions.

also try somewhere like http://www.audi-sport.net/vb/forum.php in UK, great source of info and know-it-alls!

Don't be afraid to buy one interstate, you open up a whole lot more options then.

I live in Perth and bought it unseen from Brisbane - just had it fully inspected by an Audi Specialist beforehand

[peedman]

Mate dont let that scare you!

I bought my 02 S3 beginning of last year and only put 10k on it and have had no issues with it (@100k now). Servicing is pretty reasonable depending where u take the car.

If you are looking at one check the roof rails for rust (can be common but can still covered under warranty with audi), haldex oil/filter changed, timing belt done.

[Plicata]

Thanks for the info and encouragement. I will definitely consider the S3. Sounds like it would be well worth it. I drove a 2002 A3 yesterday and it was a decent car but nothing special. After looking at the classifieds it seems there are a lot of interesting options out there. A buyers market, I think.

[Ideo]

I'm selling mine...

Great car. Loved it to bits, but, basically, I've had it for 2.5 years now and I fancy a change.

I've you want to come and have a look at mine, no pressure to buy, and are in Sydney at some stage, feel free.

[Plicata]

There's not much of interest around Wollongong (maybe a couple of Polo GTi's I could look at), so I'll probably head up to Sydney at some stage. I'll be in touch if I do.