Five-Alive: 2018 Audi RS3

Revolving Garage, First Gear Meida LLC

Status: SOLD
Make: Audi
Model: RS3
Year: 2018
Engine: 5 cyl, inline, turbo
Trans: 7sp dual clutch auto
Color: Daytona Grey over Black
Interior: Black leather, red stitching
Mileage: ~8,000
Location: Bozeman, MT
Shipping: Yes, buyer’s expense
Revo Summary: A brilliant sport sedan with properly repaired prior damage well below book value
Price: SOLD

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In the early 1980s Audi exploited a small change to the international rally rule book which allowed for the use of four wheel drive systems, and subsequently tore through the pages of rally history with a legendary race car called the Quattro. The Quattro would go on to star in some of the most exciting car racing of all time: the heavy weight, no holds barred “Gruppe B.” The 2018 Audi RS3 is not so much an homage to the original Audi Quattro, as it is a highly focused and mind boggling capable touring car, but the RS3 carries over more than a few markers of the Quattro rally DNA. Just enough to remind the driver that while it may be perfectly well suited to a trip to the shops, it is also a savagely fast and laser sharp sports sedan. Like the Quattro, it has a turbo charged, 5 cylinder motor that makes a wonderful sound with a totally unique feel (enhanced by its unusual 1-2-4-5-3 firing order), it has four wheel drive, and it is unmistakable with its low stance and flared arches.  Also like the Quattro, this car is dripping with cutting edge technology that marries driving skill with mind boggling performance, but in the RS3 that technology happens to be 30 years more advanced.

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Revolving Garage, First Gear LLC

While Europeans have had access to several different Audi “RS” models over the years, we here in the states have only been offered a select few.  The “RS” line of cars are the highest performing, most extreme cars Audi makes for the motoring public. They are marketed squarely at enthusiasts, and while competent at more mundane tasks, they are capable of great feats of performance. Lower down the Audi line-up are “S” cars that have mechanical performance changes while still having broad appeal, and then “S Line” trim packages that are largely cosmetic. 

The example listed for sale here is a full bore RS model, with a focus on extracting raw performance out of what started as the Audi A3 sedan. This one shows beautifully in Daytona Grey with black leather seats, and titanium trim. The option package on this car is clearly performance driven, and includes the amazing Audi “virtual cockpit,” which gives the driver a second fully configurable screen in the gauge cluster. The carbon ceramic front brakes are a powerful performance option, and can be swapped out for the standard steel brakes by any subsequent owner looking for a lower priced replacement. While the acceleration will impress your passengers, the almost violent deceleration from a sharp dip into the brakes will leave a lasting impression. Options are listed in the side bar on the right, and window sticker in the gallery below:

Revolving Garage, First Gear Meida LLC

Technology Package:

  • Virtual Cockpit gauge display
  • MMI Navigation
  • B&O Sound System

Driver's Assistance Package:

  • Adaptive Cruise
  • Lane Keep Assist
  • High Beam Assist

Dynamic and Dyn. Plus Packages:

  • Sport Exhaust (black tips)
  • Increased top speed (174 mph)
  • Carbon Ceramic Front Brakes
  • Grey RS3 Calipers
  • Fixed Sport Suspension (Mag ride Delete)

It has the OE 19 inch “blade” style wheels, which are staggered front to rear, with 8.5 inch front wheels wrapped in 255/30 tires, and 8 inch rear width wheels wrapped in 235/35 tires.  This unusual configuration (most cars with staggered fitment have wider rear wheels) was chosen to balance the handling and minimize understeer on turn in. This car comes with summer specific Pirelli P-Zero (OE tire) with about 7,000 miles on them, and a set a Continental Extreme Contact DWS all season tires for winter weather use with about 1,000 miles behind them.

Revolving Garage, First Gear Meida LLC

This car has only 8,000 miles, and looks like new inside and out. It was in an accident within its first 900 hundred miles, as is reflected on the Carfax. After significant research the owner chose Dave’s Body Shop in West Jordan, UT to perform the repair. Dave’s has a stellar reputation throughout the Mountain West region, is factory certified by Audi to perform body repairs including steel and aluminum work, and is I-Car Gold Class certified. Audi certification requires strict adherence to factory standards, as well as use of factory approved tools, materials, and frame bench. Records from the repair will be provided to the next purchaser. The car has already been priced to reflect this previous damage. The balance of the remaining factory warranty is unaffected.  This car is being sold with a clean (non-salvage/non-branded) MT title in the owner's name.

The RS3 has a 2.5 liter turbo charged 5 cylinder motor, making 400 hp, and 354 lb-ft of torque (Note, due to European emissions regulations, 2019 models have a reduced power output). The transmission is an Audi “DSG” twin clutch automated manual gearbox, with seven forward speeds, and the option of full automated gear selection, or choosing gears through steering mounted paddles or the gear selector. Power is electronically distributed to all four wheels through a Haldex all wheel drive system, with RS specific programming that Audi says maximizes power transmission to the rear wheels.

For all inquiries on this vehicle please email us at info@revolvinggarage.com