2009 S3 v 2007 R32

[mrobbie]

Looking for a replacement for the Boxster. This is for a daily commute (which wasn't great in the 987 hence the change...)

Anyone got any views on either car?

I owned an R32 when they first came out in 2006, so guess the question is more about the S3 but anyone with experience of both would be a great help.

The other option which is out there would be a Golf Edition30...

[HJMS123]

The S3 will be comfortably quicker but will sound awful in comparison the the R32. Interior in the S3 is slightly nicer but that's subjective and there isn't much between them.

From reviews I've seen the R32 actually handled quite well comsidering the weight of that engine at the front coupled with the haldex whereas the reviews of the S3 aren't quite so positive on the handling front.

My head would say S3 (due to MPG, tax and speed) whereas heart would say R32 (sound and handling)

[AuthurDaley]

Have owned both.

V6 delivery and noise are all that the R32 has going in my opinion. Slightest bit more driver feedback in R32.

A 2009 s3 will have +20hp increase, updated haldex and a much nicer interior. S3 is sub 6 to 60 and seemed all round a bit more sure footed. Take into account cambelt and water pump change every 5 years on 2.0T.

[Adrian E]

mrobbie said:

The other option which is out there would be a Golf Edition30...

For the summer months this would be my choice, but in winter the lack of traction may annoy. Just bought a GTI after nothing but quattros since 2008 and it's only now the roads are dried out that it feels like you can deploy full throttle without too many issues. Reliable 30mpg under any conditions.