2003 Audi S3 review from UK and Ireland

Nothing major so far (touches desk), just one tyre to replace, 225 R18 40...£200 from Kwikfit... grumble (only place I could find open on a Sunday afternoon).

Annoying rattle from trim underneath the exhaust.

Was looking for a quick 4WD car for a while, Subaru's & Evo's were a bit too in your face for my liking, eventually decided on the S3 over the Cupra as I didn't like the looks or the depreciation.

Stunning car, Black, sits on 18" RS4 alloys & silver mirrors (were on the car before I got it), silver cream interior, 6 CD changer etc.

What can I say, goes like stink and I've driven quick cars, used to have a VTS and owned a GSXR600 as well. Superb handling, grip is superb although like all Audi's it understeers at the oddest times, usually wet roundabouts or junctions, but generally it's a superbly balanced and well composed, performance is superb and 6th is surprisingly torquey on the motorway, driven it to Scotland from London a few times. Induction hiss from the Turbo is addictive. Exhaust seems to get louder as the journey goes by.

Interior is a very nice place to be, Recarro's key you firmly in place and you need them in this car. Stereo sounds great, but can be a bit fiddly on when pressing on.

Great build quality, great driving experience. There are faster cars on the road and cheaper VAG part bins specials I know, but the overall package is superb and I'd highly recommend this car. Rare too which adds to the appeal. Hard to find a good one as a lot are stolen recovered.

Only downsides are poor legroom in the back due to the large Recarro's, but then I don't have kids so who cares. Boot space is really poor, but enough for a suitcase and a biggish bag.