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After selling my previous car I'm seriously considering an S3 as a replacement.

But, as with most people I want to get abit more information about the car before I venture into S3 ownership. If anyone can help me I'd be grateful

1. I've been told there are 2 variations of S3 - 210bhp/225bhp.
Is there a definitive cross over point between the bhp variations?
What are the differences in the engine?
With the 'stage 1' remap that most places offer, can they be taken to the same power safely?

2. Are they reliable? Obviously Audi are a good marque, but can the S3 take some hammer; suspension/brakes etc? At what mileage do the serious bits of the engine - piston rings/turbo start to fail?

3. Are their any known 'faults' to look out for when buying one? Is there a buying guide anywhere?


I think that all for now. Thanks in advance to anyone that can help

2001/2002 i think was the change the easy way to check is on the log book 225 has an engine code of BAM.

as for re map most companies quote the same bhp but im sure thats not the case?

reliable O yes my mates 99 s3 has done 155k its chipped and still pulls 155mph without to much hassle! you will get problems with coil packs and DV valve but they are cheap to replace, suspension goes on for about 70k before needs looking at, brakes are brakes and like most things are down to the owner and how they drive

buying guide http://www.parkers.co.uk/pricing/used_c ... orsell=buy