theboy

My current A45 is now 2 1/2 years old and I'm thinking of swapping. Got to be practical and have 5 seats (even though I only have 2 kids) So that's ruled out the C43 Coupe although to be honest I wasn't impressed. I could buy the current Facelift A45 and this time spec the performance exhaust or today I looked at the current RS3. Got to admit it sounds superb and I have a test drive booked for Friday.

Whats peoples thoughts?

Brun

I have an RS3 but it is a touch small. My previous 330 had way, way more space inside and boot. Not sure how it compares to an A class for space but the sound track alone was the deciding factor over a 45 alone!

bioforger

iTrader: (1)

RS3.

The latest 400brake one looks and sounds epic, I think you'll be swapping to that after your test drive.

Pricey though 44K base more like 50-60K loaded with options

jonnyboy82

iTrader: (10)

C63 best of both!

theboy

I know its not the same but I test drove the C43 and cant say it blew my socks off, sounded better than my A45 but the 4 seats is a issue. C63 is just too much money & running costs.

I could be tempted to buy a current model RS3 that's loaded with options and say 7k mileage & save some money.

stilover

I have as S3 Saloon, and thinking of upgrading to the RS3 saloon.


Only thing is the cost to do so. Trade-in of mine? £22-23k'ish. Private sale (including being messed around) £25k'ish


Spec wanted for new RS3? £51-52k'ish


As much as I'd like one, I'm starting to think £25-27k for basically the same car with an additional 100bhp just isn't worth it. Though the 5 pot motor is very very appealing


If it was an absolute new A3 shape/model it would be easier to justify. I may just hang on, as the New A3 is out in 2019. Plus, Mercedes have released images of their concept A Class Saloon which look very nice indeed. Just maybe not with a 4Pot 400bhp screamer


If coming from A45, I'd say do it, as it a completely different car.

theboy

Drove it today and the first thing I noticed was the sound, its superb. Also in comfort mode on motorway its very quiet and I could hold a conversation with daughter who was in the back. Very impressed.

stilover

Where did you get a test drive from?


I've been badgering my dealer for weeks, and they still don't know when they're getting one in.

lozgti1

Think they are both old hat now.

Must be something nicer out there than the boring Germans : Save a few pounds more and get the Alfa Quadrifoglio ?

bioforger

iTrader: (1)

Um the alfa starts at 60K, fits the bill i guess, but if you're looking in that bracket then you might as well go for the m3/m4 which are overall better, but they don't have the space in the rear like a superhatch.

Matty81

Or a r35. Better than the German cars and alfa's. Can get lovely examples for £40+

sprigeteer

iTrader: (9)

What about a V60 Polestar - a good family wagon with poke. 35K nearly new.

theboy

Sorry I should of pointed out it was the 376bhp version that I test drove, they had a cancelled order that I could of had for September but at moment I'm just looking.

The alfa is gorgeous and with the wife being Italian she would love it (she has a Abarth) but its more than I'm wanting to spend. Options wise I would probably just select the exhaust.

njkmrs

This thread is useless without pics of Italian wife..!

john banks

R35 is a rough old thing to live with IMHO. When I had something more refined I didn't drive it much.

How refined is the RS3 compared with an RS6? I prefer the size of an A3 sized chassis but usually the engines, refinement and ride disappoint compared to the heavier metal.

Daryl

I'd get an M2 over an RS3, C63 or A45.

It might not be perfect and has only got 4 seats, but it's got character, something I felt the others were lacking.

At least test drive one, that's my advice.

Rbon91

iTrader: (6)

Went from my Blob Sti 2.35 to a 2012 C63 Coupe absolutely awesome..


Do miss the scoob factor so will be back again one day..


regarding the A45.. I had a CLA45 as courtesy car while the 63 was in on warranty work.. view was yeah they quickbut engine just seems to small and have to rev the nuts off it to get anywhere not enough torque..


mate of mine has an RS3 not been in it yet but heard they are the better drive.