Drag race: New Audi S3 vs old Audi RS3

With the latest version of the Audi RS3 yet to hit roads, your best choice of fast Audi hot-hatch is the all-new S3.

Now in its fourth generation, the Audi S3 has more than enough performance to satisfy most people’s speed kicks. Its 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 310hp and 400Nm and sends this power to all four wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

Tap the video to watch the race.

It’s not like that car was a slouch, either. Its 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder engine kicked out 340hp and 450Nm – which was also sent to all four wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

It tipped the scales at the same 1575kg as the new S3, too, which means it should have the new car beaten – on paper, at least. This begs the question – would you be better off with a new S3, or should you roll back the years and get a full-fat RS3?

Well, today’s drag race looks to find out if those stats actually make any difference — or if the S3 is hiding a little more up its sleeve than Audi wants you to believe. As well as the usual quarter mile test, the two Audi hatches are taking on the rolling race and a brake test to determine the winner.

Which comes out on top? Watch to find out.

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