The Audi S3 and BMW 135i are both German-made, entry-level offerings that deliver a high fun-to-drive factor along with a good dose of practicality wrapped up in high-quality Teutonic engineering. Though it is a stretch to refer to them as sports cars, that is what many consumers consider them thanks to their powerful motors and sport-tuned chassis. Unfortunately, for U.S. enthusiasts, Audi has decided to not sell the S3 to American buyers. We do get to experience the 135i, though, which has proven to be a hit among BMW lovers.
Engines
The 135i is powered by the N54 3.0-liter straight-six engine, twin-turbocharged to produce 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. This is a powerful motor that offers usable thrust from just above idle. The Audi is also turbocharged, but makes do with an inline-four that gets its forced induction via a single turbo. The Audi puts out 252 horsepower, less than the 135i, but still an impressive number.
Styling
The 135i sold in North America is a traditional coupe, so it has a trunk and not a hatchback, though, in Europe, the 1 Series has been offered as a hatchback for many years. Like the U.S.-sold A3, the S3 is a three-door hatchback and as such offers a bit more practicality than its competitor from BMW.
Transmission
The S3 is offered with only a six-speed manual, which says something about the target audience. The 135i can be had with either a traditional six-speed or the optional Steptronic automatic.
Chassis/Suspension
Because it relies on a traditional rear-drive platform, the 135i delivers a traditional sports sedan driving experience. Like all Audi S-series cars, the S3 features Quattro full-time all-wheel drive. While this offers impressive traction, particularly in the wet, with all four wheels being driven, the S3 does not offer the same level of involvement the 135i does.
Performance
Both of these cars deliver similar performance. The 135i covers the 0-to-60 dash in 5.3 seconds while the S3 is a hair slower, getting to 60 in 5.7 seconds. Both cars have electronically limited top speeds, with the BMW reaching 150 mph and the Audi reaching 155 mph.
Expert Opinion
Audi and BMW have always been competitors in the marketplace, and the S3 and 135i are both great cars in their own right. But while Audi has made great strides when it comes to making its cars as involving and as dynamic as the counterparts from BMW, the machines from Bavaria arguably still offer a superior driving experience. This is, of course, a question that means little to North American enthusiasts, since the S3 is not offered here.
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