Audi S3 vs Golf R vs BMW 235i

Splinter

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As above. Actually all are very similar in price range (options excluded) and I am crumbling in my resolution as to not buy a new vehicle over my 2006 OPC (which still rocks by the way).

Yes, talking about all being new vehicles, seeing as I don't think there are any demo's or second hand at the moment. Interested in opinions. Right now I think the S3 is better than the Golf R and the BMW 235i is better than them.
 
I personally would go for an Audi S3 (My choice would be the Sportback, but both are nice). They are amazing cars and I love the looks! The Golf R is a Golf so to me, nothing special. I feel the 235i doesn't actually compare to the other cars, more suitable would be a 135i, those are great too! I've not driven any of the cars but have driven a few cars from each of those manufacturers. The BMW would be the sporty one and the Audi would be the best balance between sporty and comfort. I personally feel the Golf isn't worth considering, rather an S3
 
The golf and S3 use the same engine and gearbox, very similar drive-trains. Difference comes from the interior, exterior, and options lists.

Golf is cheaper and better equipped as standard, with decent options.
S3 is more expensive, has less standard kit, but better options, such as adaptive cruise or full LED headlights etc. Comes in 3 door, 5 door, or sedan shape. Also has full maintenance included. Also has option for the S-Sport seats and Bang & Olufsen sound system :love:

Depends how much you'd be willing to spend and what exactly you are looking for.

If I were to choose something in that situation with no limits, it would be:
S3 Sedan in Sprint Blue (Audi Exclusive color (R30k!), because no nice blue available...), otherwise Ice Silver
Those Rotor wheels :love:
S-Sport Seats
LED Lights
Auto Hold
Adaptive Cruise
Park Assist (Automatic Parking)
B&O Sound
MMI Nav

So about 600. Basically max it out, still less than an entry level A45 which runs up to 900k:wtf:

EDIT: I see that adding on a Maintenance plan to the Golf makes it as much as the S3 sedan.. So get yourself that and add in a couple of extras that you would want, less of a hijack risk than the Golf and I'm sure the service would likely be better as well. Not to mention more exclusivity if you'd be interested in that.
 
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The golf and S3 use the same engine and gearbox, very similar drive-trains. Difference comes from the interior, exterior, and options lists.

Golf is cheaper and better equipped as standard, with decent options.
S3 is more expensive, has less standard kit, but better options, such as adaptive cruise or full LED headlights etc. Comes in 3 door, 5 door, or sedan shape. Also has full maintenance included. Also has option for the S-Sport seats and Bang & Olufsen sound system :love:

Depends how much you'd be willing to spend and what exactly you are looking for.

If I were to choose something in that situation with no limits, it would be:
S3 Sedan in Sprint Blue (Audi Exclusive color (R30k!), because no nice blue available...), otherwise Ice Silver
Those Rotor wheels :love:
S-Sport Seats
LED Lights
Auto Hold
Adaptive Cruise
Park Assist (Automatic Parking)
B&O Sound
MMI Nav

So about 600. Basically max it out, still less than an entry level A45 which runs up to 900k:wtf:

EDIT: I see that adding on a Maintenance plan to the Golf makes it as much as the S3 sedan.. So get yourself that and add in a couple of extras that you would want, less of a hijack risk than the Golf and I'm sure the service would likely be better as well. Not to mention more exclusivity if you'd be interested in that.

Yep, I've read as well that just upgrading the golf R in terms of service plan puts it on same level as the S3 ito price. And I'm more interested in 4-wheel drive than a rear wheel driven car that can put you into the hedges. The Merc is just insanely priced. But, must say the reviews of the M235i do pique my interest.
 
Can't speak for BMW myself to be honest. I test drove the 120d once, wasn't impressed after coming from a test of the 1.4T FSI A3 and the 1.4 TSI Golf.
Not a big fan of BMW styling, but really not clued up on them in terms of spec or services etc. I would rather have something more practical than a coupe though to be honest with you, which is why I'd get the S3 sedan, though the sportback would be sufficient as well, the sedan just looks nicer to me.

Only thing I can say, is that I'd like a spin should you purchase something :D
 
Get the S3, owned one before, cried when i sold it. Currently driving a BMW, but still would like to get another S3.
Golf might be the sibling of Audi, but its still a Golf.
 
Tough choice.
You won't go wrong with either of these.
Between the golf and S3, I'll take the golf as that Audi design is way too dated now.

Between the golf r and 235? I think the 2 series will grow on you in the next few months.
If you had to decide today, get the R.
 
Tough choice.
You won't go wrong with either of these.
Between the golf and S3, I'll take the golf as that Audi design is way too dated now.

Between the golf r and 235? I think the 2 series will grow on you in the next few months.
If you had to decide today, get the R.

The S3 is a brand new design, sure its just incremental but so is the golf.
 
If you have the 600+k to spend, Go for the BMW M235.
A friend got her's delivered on Monday and what a Beautiful car.
 
Both the A3 and golf are rebuilt on a completely different platform from the previous generation, so there's nothing to be outdated unless you dislike the styling to begin with.

Why not consider RS3 :D
 
S3 first choice but the golf R is great to , both the same running gear , so it comes down to finance and what shape you prefer .
Both of these two are awesome .
S3 Quattro must handle .
 
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I think the BMW looks much better than either of the other two.
 
S3 = everyone will call you boet and you have to wear wifebeaters.
Golf R = you really want to spend THAT much, on a Golf?
BMW 2 = Pure Porn and desirability, plus new, and still scarce on the roads.
 
Keep the OPC or get a OPC Nurburgring Edition. The cars you mention are all overpriced and mostly VAG.
 
I would definitely get the M235i. That is one helluva machine.. Drove the M135i and that was crazy fast. The M235i has the looks and the power. A no brainer for me. That being said. All three your options are awesome cars! Anyone will make you smile, I just think the M235i will make me smile more.
 
A45?

Latest season of Top Gear did a comparison between a 135 and Golf GTI - they excluded the A45 based on price.

I think the Golf won overall.
 
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