1999 Audi S3 (8L) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The 1999 Audi S3 (8L) has a curb weight of approximately 1375 kg (3,031 lbs), which is the weight of the car without passengers or cargo. Its maximum weight capacity, including passengers and cargo, is 1935 kg (4,265 lbs). This weight balance contributes to the car’s dynamic handling and performance characteristics.

The Audi S3 (8L) offers a luggage capacity of 270 liters (9.5 cubic feet) with the rear seats up, making it practical for everyday use and short trips. When the rear seats are folded down, the cargo space expands significantly to 1020 liters (36 cubic feet), allowing for larger items or increased storage space for longer journeys.

Yes, the Audi S3 (8L) fits comfortably into a standard garage. With a length of 4159 mm (163.7 inches), a width of 1763 mm (69.4 inches), and a height of 1415 mm (55.7 inches), it is compact enough to maneuver and park in typical residential garages. Its moderate height and width ensure clearance in most standard garage spaces without difficulty.

The Audi S3 (8L) was the first generation of the S3 model, introduced in 1998, so it does not have a direct predecessor with the same name for comparison. However, compared to the regular Audi A3 of the same period, the S3 (8L) shares very similar dimensions, as it is essentially a sportier, performance-focused variant of the A3 hatchback. The main differences are under the hood and in suspension tuning rather than exterior size.

Compared to similar compact performance hatchbacks from the late 1990s, such as the Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk4 or the BMW 318ti Compact, the Audi S3 (8L) has competitive dimensions. Its length of 4159 mm (163.7 inches) and width of 1763 mm (69.4 inches) make it slightly longer and wider than some rivals, while its height of 1415 mm (55.7 inches) keeps it low and sporty. This size balance contributes to excellent agility and dynamic driving behavior among sporty hatchbacks of that era.

The Audi S3 (8L) is equipped with 17-inch rims sized 7.5J x 17, providing a sporty and aggressive stance. The tires fitted to these rims are 225/45 R17, which contribute to enhanced grip and handling performance, suitable for the car’s sporty character while maintaining ride comfort on everyday road surfaces.

The roof load capacity of the Audi S3 (8L) is rated at 75 kg (165 lbs). This capacity allows owners to safely mount roof racks or carriers for bicycles, luggage boxes, or sports equipment, broadening the car’s utility for travel and recreational activities without compromising vehicle safety or structural integrity.

While exact interior cabin dimensions are not always published, the Audi S3 (8L) offers a comfortable environment for front and rear passengers within its compact hatchback body. The width of 1763 mm (69.4 inches) and height of 1415 mm (55.7 inches) provide sufficient headroom and shoulder room for adult passengers, with sporty bucket seats in front for better support during spirited driving. The rear seats can comfortably accommodate two adults or three children for shorter trips.

With a curb weight of 1375 kg (3,031 lbs), the Audi S3 (8L) strikes a balance between lightweight agility and solid road presence. This weight allows for dynamic handling, sharp cornering, and responsive acceleration, particularly when combined with its quattro all-wheel-drive system. The relatively moderate weight also contributes to effective fuel economy and braking performance characteristic of sporty hatchbacks from this era.