2004 Audi A3 (8P) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Audi A3 (8P) produced between 2003 and 2005 varies from 1205 kg to 1525 kg (2657 to 3363 pounds), depending on the specific trim and equipment. The maximum authorized weight ranges from 1765 kg to 2085 kg (3891 to 4596 pounds), which includes passengers and cargo capacity.

The trunk space of the Audi A3 (8P) hatchback from 2003 to 2005 offers a luggage capacity between 281 liters and 350 liters (approximately 9.9 to 12.4 cubic feet) with all seats up. When the rear seats are folded down, the cargo volume expands considerably to between 1011 liters and 1100 liters (35.7 to 38.8 cubic feet), offering flexible storage for larger items.

Yes, the Audi A3 (8P) fits comfortably within a standard residential garage. With a length around 4.2 meters (13.8 feet), width of 1.765 meters (5.8 feet), and a height of approximately 1.42 meters (4.7 feet), the vehicle's compact hatchback design allows it to fit into typical single-car garages with ease, leaving enough clearance for opening doors and maneuvering.

The 1765 mm (69.5 inches) width of the Audi A3 (8P) is fairly typical for compact hatchbacks from the early 2000s. It is wide enough to provide a comfortable cabin space for passengers without being overly bulky for city driving. Compared to contemporaries like the Volkswagen Golf Mk5, which shares a similar platform, the A3's width is nearly identical, reflecting shared engineering and design priorities.

The Audi A3 (8P) was equipped with rim sizes ranging from 6.5J x 16 inches up to 7.5J x 17 inches, paired with tire options including 205/55 R16 and 225/45 R17. These tire sizes offer a balance between sporty handling and ride comfort, suitable for the car's compact hatchback design and performance capabilities.

With a height of 1421 mm (55.9 inches), the Audi A3 (8P) strikes a good balance between aerodynamic efficiency and interior comfort. This moderate height contributes to reduced air resistance, improving fuel efficiency and stability at speed. Internally, it provides respectable headroom for front and rear passengers, making the car practical for everyday use without sacrificing sporty styling.

The Audi A3 (8P) has a roof load capacity of 75 kg (165 pounds). This load limit allows owners to safely mount roof racks, cargo boxes, or carriers for bikes, skis, or other gear without jeopardizing vehicle stability or safety. It’s important to adhere to this limit to avoid damage to the roof structure or impact driving dynamics.

Compared to its predecessor, the A3 (8L), which was produced from 1996 to 2003, the Audi A3 (8P) is slightly larger and heavier. The 8P generation extended length to about 4203-4214 mm (from approximately 3995 mm on the 8L), making it more spacious. Additionally, the 8P's curb weight increased to 1205-1525 kg from the 8L’s approximately 1200-1400 kg, reflecting advancements in safety equipment and added features.

In comparison to similar compact hatchbacks of its time, such as the BMW 1 Series (first generation) and Volkswagen Golf Mk5, the Audi A3 (8P) shows competitive exterior dimensions and interior cargo space. Its length of around 4.2 meters, width of nearly 1.77 meters, and adjustable luggage capacity ranging from 281 to 1100 liters make it practical, matching or exceeding competitors in versatility. The 8P combines premium design and efficient use of space, often appealing to buyers seeking both style and functionality in a compact segment.