The new
Audi S3 provides the ultimate in sophistication and sportiness. This vehicle retains the driving pleasure and practicality of previous models. However, new features increase the standards of this premium compact class car to the level of a sports car.
Increased Performance
The ride of this sports vehicle is enhanced by several features including the Quattro permanent four-wheel drive, the large 18-inch diameter alloy wheels and a six-speed gearbox. Drivers will also appreciate the new S sports suspension system that provides a smooth, comfortable ride. This high performance model incorporates maximum acceleration around corners, safe and precise handling and active response to steering movements.
The
Audi S3 can race from 0 to 60 mph in an impressive 5.5 seconds and will keep on climbing until it reaches 155 mph. The turbocharged, four-cylinder 122-cui unit contains TFSI direct fuel injection which results in a high-performance, smooth engine. Although the engine is shared with the Golf GTI and
Audi A3 2.0 TFSI, the company has upgraded this model’s supercharging pressure. The S3 now delivers 265 bhp, an additional 65 bhp when compared to the Golf GTI and A3 models.
Powerful Engine
The powerful turbo engine of the S3 delivers an impressive 258 lbs/ft at 2,500 rpm which remains constant until the vehicle reaches 5,000 rpm. The peak power of this sports vehicle maxes at 6,000 rpm. This turbocharged engine features a larger compressor rotor and turbine. These changes results in a 1.2 bar of boost pressure which is normally seen in competition engines. The temperature of the compressed air is also substantially lowered thanks to the S3’s modified intercooler.
Audi has stiffened up the cylinder block and designed a new heat-resistant head. Stronger connecting rods with new bearings and stronger pins support the engine’s power increment pistons. Power output is further increased with changes to the valve train; the timing of the exhaust camshaft has been adjusted and high-pressure injectors featuring larger cross-section inject fuel directly into the vehicle’s combustion chamber.
Surprisingly, the high-performance turbo engine weighs only 335 pounds which maximizes the axle load distribution of the S3. The compact size of this powerful engine also increases the interior space of the vehicle.
Six-Speed Manual Gearbox
The
Audi S3 provides firm handling thanks to its six-speed, close-ration manual gearbox. Drivers benefit from sportier and more precise gear changes with the vehicle’s reduced gearshift. This model also features a multi-plate clutch at the rear of the vehicle. This electronically controlled, high performance clutch is positioned for optimal weight balance, ensuring maximum driving safety.
Exterior Styling Updates
This three-door sports car contains numerous distinctive elements that distinguish it from previous models. For example, the S3 features a single-frame grille containing chrome trim and a front skirt with restyled side sills and a spoiler containing large air intakes.
The rear-end styling of this model has also been updated; the rear skirt of the S3 features a built-in contrasting platinum grey diffuser and two oval s-style chrome tailpipes add to the dynamism of this model. The descending roofline converges in a powerful tail that commands attention. The visual appearance of the S3 is further enhanced by a roof spoiler in the same color as the body and door mirrors with an aluminum appearance.
Images were reprinted with permissions from original author Chris Ostberg (AudiWorld.com)! Content was written by Tracy McCaskill for www.sport-cars.org only and you MAY NOT copy, distribute or use this page's content for any commercial or non-commerical purpose without written permission of this site owner and photos authors!
November 24, 2007, 4:36 am
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