any idea of cost and whats the best equipment, or is it just a software upgrade?

also will my insurance go through the roof.

BTW - I love my A3 and cant understand why its not far more popular here in the USA.

 

But why would you tell your insurance carrier that you have "chipped" your A3? Or that you frequent this forum? Not that I am advising you not to tell.

As for passing CA's SMOG test...

1. "Chip" only - you would most probably past, even if on performance program.
2. "Chip" + aftermarket downpipe - youmay not pass, especially with a 100-cell cat, but see #3.
3. You do not have to worry about that in your first 5 years of ownership, if you buy a new car.

The A3 is not popular in the US because it is priced relatively close to the A4, and Americans don't like hatchbacks. The only thing bad about a hatchback is that the trunk does not automatically pop open.

 

Regarding the A3 price, i dont agree that its close in price to the A4. My A3, compared to an identically equiped A4 has about $7000 difference in price(both at MSRP), and i can carry a big screen tv if i need/want to. Try that in a A4(sedan).

Its wierd how in the US people dont like hatchbacks....unless of course its on a truck frame and gets 12mpg and you call it an SUV, then it's "cool".

 

Regarding "don't like hatchback", most of the new small cars are variations of crossover /sportbacks as viewed at car shows. Check out all the new 2008 models from auto manufacturers.

 

Re: the not liking hatchback thing, I am just quoting an automotive journalism truism; I love hatchbacks. Then again, there must be some truth to it, especially for people spending around $30K.

 

I think its safe to assume everyone in this forum....who owns an A3 must at the very least like hatchbacks....or else they aren't very bright and bought a 30k car they dont like....I know Ilove mine.

 

Stock A3 3.2, yes, in a straight line on dry roads. Bring it to a track and it's a totally different story.

Stock RX8, yes.

Stock S2000, gonna be close. And on a track, the S2000 will be up front, not even close.



As for the original post, while on paper, GTi is 200 lbs heavier. Someone weighted both with same setup, and it was around 100 lbs difference between the two. I still believe stock for stock, the GTi will have an advantage, but 0-60 shouldn't be the main quality that an A3 owner is looking for.