Audi's S3 has its hands full trying to dethrone rivals such as the BMW M135i xDrive and Mercedes-AMG A35 when looking at out-and-out performance, and the decision as to which model to choose often comes down to brand preference, but what about those of us looking at value? For today's comparison, we will be comparing the S3 with two fellow German products that offer similar packages and performance to determine which offers the best value for money.
Practicality
In terms of dimensions, there is very little to choose between our three contenders, however, the Mercedes-AMG, from our experience, offers the most interior space. The 1 Series features the largest boot at 380-litres, followed by the A35 at 370-litres, which the Audi in third place, sporting 325-litres.
Performance
In terms of performance, the AMG has an advantage, there is very little to choose between the three cars, but the AMG has the lowest claimed 0-100km/h time. When looking at efficiency, again, the AMG has the claimed lowest figure, however, we have experienced very similar consumption figures from this trio in the real world.
| Audi S3 Sportback quattro | BMW M135i xDrive | Mercedes-AMG A35 hatch 4matic | |
| Engine | 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbo petrol | 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbo petrol | 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbo petrol |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch automatic | 8-speed automatic | 7-speed dual-clutch automatic |
| Power | 213 kW | 225 kW | 225 kW |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 450 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Kerb weight | 1 459kg | 1 600kg | 1 555kg |
| Driven wheels | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| 0-100 km/h | 4.9 seconds | 4.8 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| CO2 emissions | 185 g/km | 171 g/km | 180 g/km |
| Fuel consumption | 8.0 L/100km | 7.5 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Price | R837 000 | R910 000 | R998 203 |
*This table was compiled with information sourced from www.duoporta.co.za as well as the official press releases of each model.
Specification
All three models feature ABS, traction and stability control, six airbags (seven in the A35), ISOFIX child seat anchor points, alloy wheels, multifunction steering wheels, artificial leather seats, climate control, multifunction steering wheels, cruise control, partial leather seats, LED headlights, touchscreen infotainment systems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Safety
The A3 range was crash tested by Euro NCAP in 2022 and received 5-Stars, with 89% for adult occupant safety, 81% for child occupant safety, 68% for vulnerable road users and 73% for its safety assistance systems The BMW has also been tested by Euro NCAP, but in 2019 and received 5-Stars, with 83% for adult occupant safety, 87% for child occupant safety, 76% for vulnerable road users and 72% for its safety assistance systems. The Mercedes-AMG had its Euro NCAP test conducted in 2018, and it too received 5-Stars, with 96% for adult occupant safety, 91% for child occupant safety, 92% for vulnerable road users and 75% for its safety assistance systems.
Warranty and maintenance
In the warranty and service department, all three of our contenders come with 5-year/100 000km maintenance plans.
Verdict
There is a clear winner in terms of value for money, and that is the Audi S3 which is considerably cheaper than its key rivals and features a similar standard package.
