2008 Audi S3 Sportback (8PA) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Audi S3 Sportback (8PA) ranges from 1415 kg to 1515 kg (3121 to 3340 lbs). This relatively moderate weight helps balance sporty agility with stability, aiding the car's acceleration, handling, and braking dynamics while maintaining a solid road presence.

The Audi S3 Sportback (8PA) offers a luggage capacity of 302 liters (10.7 cubic feet). This space is adequate for daily errands, groceries, or weekend trips, though it is more modest compared to larger vehicles. The practical hatchback design allows flexible cargo handling, especially when rear seats are folded down, increasing storage capacity.

The maximum permissible weight for the Audi S3 Sportback (8PA) ranges between 2055 kg and 2075 kg (4532 to 4573 lbs). This figure includes the curb weight plus passengers, cargo, and fuel. It is crucial to stay within this limit to ensure safe handling, braking performance, and to avoid excessive wear on suspension and tires.

With its length of 4302 mm (169.3 inches) and width of 1765 mm (69.5 inches), the Audi S3 Sportback (8PA) is compact enough to fit comfortably within the dimensions of a standard residential garage. Standard garages typically have widths around 2.4 to 2.7 meters (94-106 inches) and lengths exceeding 5 meters (196 inches), so parking and maneuvering this hatchback will generally be convenient.

The Audi S3 Sportback (8PA) is equipped with 7.5J x 18 inch rims paired with 225/40 R18 tires. These 18-inch wheels contribute to the vehicle’s sporty aesthetics and provide a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision, suitable for the car’s performance-oriented character.

Compared to the predecessor Audi S3 (8L) which had a height near 1395 mm (54.9 inches), the S3 Sportback (8PA) at 1402 mm (55.2 inches) is slightly taller. This modest increase accommodates a sportier design and potentially improves interior headroom, all while maintaining a low stance for better aerodynamics and handling.

The Audi S3 Sportback (8PA) with a length of 4302 mm and width of 1765 mm is comparable in size to rivals like the Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk5 and the Ford Focus ST of the late 2000s. Its slightly premium dimensions position it between compact and mid-size hot hatchbacks, offering a sporty yet practical package that combines performance with everyday usability.

The roof load capacity of the Audi S3 Sportback (8PA) is 75 kg (165 lbs). This limit is important to note when carrying items on roof racks such as bicycles, luggage boxes, or sporting equipment to avoid exceeding structural limits. Overloading the roof can affect vehicle handling, fuel economy, and safety.

The Audi S3 Sportback (8PA) from 2008 to 2012 is a sporty hatchback that combines agile handling with a refined interior typical of Audi’s reputation. It features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering strong acceleration, quattro all-wheel drive for traction and stability, and a practical five-door design. It was designed to fill the niche between compact sports cars and luxury sedans, offering both performance and everyday usability.