Body

One of the core areas of expertise of Audi is the field of lightweight engineering. Including its quattro drive the new S3 weighs in at a mere 1,395 kilograms (3,075.45 lb). Compared with the previous model the curb weight has fallen by 60 kilograms (132.28 lb); With regard to this reversal of the weight spiral the body accounts for 28 kilograms (61.73 lb).

In the occupant cell of the new Audi S3 hot-stamped pieces of steel create a strong composite; they owe their extreme tensile strength and the associated low weight to a drastic leap in temperature during shaping. They account for 26 percent of the body. A tailored rolled blank connects the floor with the rear of the car. The front fenders and the hood are made of aluminum.

The aluminum parts are treated in a highly demanding way – in this Audi benefits from the lightweight engineering know-how gained over the course of several years. The entire body of the new S3 is dominated by a level of precision, which makes the brand stand out in all areas. Between the side walls and the roof, which are made of steel, a plasmatron-soldered seam creates the link. The permitted tolerance is just a few tenths of a millimeter – the seam creates a practically invisible zero joint.

The body of the new Audi S3 has other strengths as well. It achieves very good static and dynamic torsion stiffness levels – this way it lays the foundation for the high level of precision in manufacturing and comfortable noise levels on board. A sound-insulating windscreen standard, and lots of other measures reduce noises on the inside.

The crash safety of the new Audi S3 is second to none. With regard to the aerodynamics and aeroacoustics countless detailed solutions interact. The undercarriage is for the most part covered and the engine bay is optimized for low-loss through-flow. The new Audi S3 is 4,254 millimeters (167.48 in) long, 1,777 millimeters (69.96 in) wide and 1,401 millimeters (55.16 in) tall. Its wheelbase measures 2,596 millimeters (102.20 in), 18 millimeters (0.71 in) more than its predecessor.

The equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions accepted.