Hey guys new to the forum. I currently have a Z4 roadster and am desperately needing a larger car (seat wise). The only car I've come to like is the A3.

My questions:

What's the best ideal year to buy? (used)
Which engine is best easily moded for most power? (2.0T or 3.2)
Can the newest A3 LED headlights be retrofitted in an older A3?

Thanks!

 

You will love the a3 hatch for carrying things. Adding a roof rack helps a ton too. I have a GTI which is virtuallly the same car and I love it way better than my A4. If you like Auto's it comes with the DSG which is the best tranny ive ever owned. Its like a race car. Modding the 2.0t is far superior as a Downpipe and stage 2 chip can literally throw you from 200hp to over 270+ or minus and more if you get the FUel pump upgrade for stage 2 (Plus) easily and you will love it. They are about 300 pounds lighter than an a4 as well so driving my a4 feels like a slug compared. Ebay Downpipes are proven quality on the GTI forums and are less than $150 bucks shipped in most cases.

If you want an awd model you will have to buy a newer model as all the earlier ones are FWD only. The other years are pretty much the same. I have a great stickey in the B7 A4 forum on problems / mods paths that would be great for you to read as they use the same engine. the 3.2 is aa boat anchor and you will not be able to mod it much with any noticable gains per dollar.

Enjoy.

 

Sounds excellent.

Is there a site for mods/parts for the A3?

 

APR is my preferred chip as you can change from stock to chiped via the cruise control stalk. I have used Revo on my other car and is just as good for performance but you need a switch box to change programs.

Downpipe I said Ebay is your best bet as it's dirt cheap and great quality for the money. Why pay $500-$600 for the same piece?

Intakes do not produce much gain and are not even needed for stage 2 chipping.

Good luck.