2008 Audi A3 Cabriolet (8P, facelift 2008) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the 2008 Audi A3 Cabriolet ranges from 1330 kg to 1495 kg (2932 to 3296 lbs), depending on configuration and options. Its maximum permissible weight ranges between 1830 kg and 1995 kg (4037 to 4399 lbs). This weight range supports nimble handling while offering a stable and comfortable ride. The curb weight affects acceleration, fuel economy, and maneuverability, with lighter models generally providing more responsive performance.

The 2008 Audi A3 Cabriolet offers 260 liters (9.2 cubic feet) of luggage capacity with the rear seats in their upright position. If additional cargo space is needed, folding down the rear seats increases the luggage capacity significantly to 674 liters (23.8 cubic feet). This flexibility is practical for a convertible, allowing drivers to balance passenger space with cargo needs.

The facelifted 2008 Audi A3 Cabriolet supports rim sizes of 16 inches and 17 inches. Compatible tire sizes are 205/55 R16 for 16-inch rims and 225/45 R17 for 17-inch rims. These tire and rim options contribute to both ride comfort and handling performance while maintaining the cabriolet's dynamic driving characteristics.

With a length of 4238 mm (166.9 inches), a width of 1765 mm (69.5 inches), and a height of just 1424 mm (56.1 inches), the 2008 Audi A3 Cabriolet fits comfortably into a standard single-car garage. Standard garages typically measure around 2.4 to 3.0 meters (7.9 to 9.8 feet) in width and 4.8 to 6.0 meters (15.7 to 19.7 feet) in length, so this cabriolet's compact dimensions ensure easy parking and access without spatial constraint.

Compared to its predecessor, the pre-facelift 8P Audi A3 Cabriolet, the 2008 facelift version retains very similar dimensions, with only minor tweaks mainly in styling rather than size. Both generations feature a length close to 4235 mm, width around 1765 mm, and height approximately 1424 mm. The facelift focused more on updated aesthetics, interior refinements, and technology than on changing physical dimensions.

The 2008 Audi A3 Cabriolet is sized comparably to the BMW 1 Series Cabriolet of the same era, with both offering lengths near 4200-4300 mm and widths around 1750-1800 mm, positioning them firmly in the compact luxury convertible segment. Compared to the Mercedes-Benz SLK, which is slightly shorter and narrower (around 4100 mm length), the A3 offers a bit more cabin and luggage space. The A3 balances compact dimensions with practical usability better than some smaller roadsters.

The 2008 facelift of the Audi A3 Cabriolet introduced subtle but important design updates including a redesigned front grille with a wider, more prominent single-frame look, updated headlamp designs often with Xenon options, and refreshed bumpers for a more modern appearance. Inside, minor updates improved materials and infotainment options, enhancing both comfort and technology for a more premium driving experience. These updates helped keep the A3 Cabriolet competitive in the luxury compact convertible market.

The 2008 Audi A3 Cabriolet combines sporty handling with comfortable ride quality. Thanks to its modest weight (1330-1495 kg) and well-tuned suspension, it offers agile cornering and confident steering response, making it enjoyable for both spirited drives and daily commuting. The lower center of gravity and balanced chassis dynamics enhance stability, while the cabriolet soft top adds an open-air driving experience without compromising ride comfort.

The 2008 Audi A3 Cabriolet, being a compact two-door convertible, offers comfortable seating for front passengers with ample headroom and legroom despite the lowered roofline. However, rear seating is relatively tight, mainly suitable for short trips or smaller passengers. The lowered height of 1424 mm (56.1 inches) limits rear passenger headroom, making the rear seats best suited for occasional use rather than extended passenger comfort.