2012 Audi RS3 sportback (8PA) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the 2012 Audi RS 3 Sportback (8PA) is 1575 kg (approximately 3472 lbs), which represents the vehicle's weight without passengers or cargo but with all standard equipment and fluids. The maximum weight, which includes passengers and cargo, is 2135 kg (about 4706 lbs). This weight balance supports the car’s dynamic handling and performance while safely accommodating occupants and cargo.

The standard luggage capacity of the Audi RS 3 Sportback (8PA) is 302 liters (approximately 10.7 cubic feet) with the rear seats upright. When the rear seats are folded down, the luggage capacity increases significantly to 1032 liters (about 36.5 cubic feet). This versatility makes the RS 3 Sportback practical for both daily driving and longer trips requiring extra cargo space.

The roof load capacity of the 2012 Audi RS 3 Sportback (8PA) is 75 kg (approximately 165 lbs). This measurement is critical for safely carrying roof-mounted accessories such as bike racks, cargo boxes, or roof racks. Staying within this limit ensures vehicle stability and prevents structural damage to the roof.

The Audi RS 3 Sportback (8PA) from 2012 comes with rims sized at 8J x 19 inches, paired with 225/35 R19 tires. These low-profile, wide tires support enhanced grip and handling, complimenting the car’s sporty character. This setup also contributes to the stylish, aggressive look typical of RS models.

Yes, with a length of 4302 mm (169.3 inches) and width of 1794 mm (70.6 inches), the 2012 Audi RS 3 Sportback fits comfortably within a standard residential garage. Most garages accommodate vehicles up to approximately 5 meters (about 197 inches) in length and 2.5 meters (approximately 98 inches) in width, so the RS 3 Sportback's compact dimensions ease parking and storage in typical garage spaces.

The 2012 Audi RS 3 Sportback (8PA) replaced the previous generation RS 3; it largely retained a similar compact hatchback footprint but refined dimensions slightly for improved aerodynamics and interior space optimization. While the length and width are fairly consistent, the newer RS 3 Sportback includes subtle changes in height and weight that improve handling and performance. The 8PA generation also offers increased luggage capacity when rear seats are folded, enhancing practicality compared to its predecessor.

Compared to similar performance hatchbacks like the Volkswagen Golf R and Ford Focus RS from the same era, the Audi RS 3 Sportback is slightly longer and wider, providing a roomier cabin and a more aggressive road presence. For instance, the Golf R has a length of approximately 4258 mm and a width close to 1799 mm, quite similar but slightly smaller in length. The RS 3 balances compactness with enhanced sporty dimensions, making it a standout in the hot hatch segment regarding both aesthetics and interior comfort.

The hatchback design of the 2012 Audi RS 3 Sportback (8PA) offers greater practicality than a traditional sedan layout, especially with its flexible rear cargo space. The ability to fold the rear seats increases luggage capacity from 302 liters to 1032 liters, accommodating larger items and gear. Additionally, the sportback hatchback body style facilitates easier loading and unloading of cargo, enhanced rear visibility, and a modern sporty aesthetic that appeals to enthusiasts who also need function in everyday life.

The curb weight of 1575 kg (3472 lbs) in the 2012 Audi RS 3 Sportback strikes a balance between structural rigidity and lightweight agility. This weight, combined with the maximum authorized weight of 2135 kg (4706 lbs), ensures the car can carry passengers and cargo without compromising handling characteristics. The RS engineering focuses on distributing this weight evenly and lowering the center of gravity to enhance driving dynamics, cornering stability, and braking performance typical of Audi's RS line.