Audi S3 8L

Audi S3 8L — Wheel Fitment & Specs

TL;DR — The Audi S3 8L (1999–present) uses a 5x100 bolt pattern, 57.1 mm centre bore, M14x1.5 bolts torqued to ~120 Nm. It accepts ~7.5J–8.5J wheels at ET27–ET38.

Overview

The Audi S3 (8L) is a high-performance variant of the Audi A3, manufactured in Ingolstadt, Germany from 1999 to 2003. Built on the Volkswagen A4 platform (PQ34), it features a turbocharged 1.8-liter I4 engine with two power outputs: 210 PS and 225 PS. The S3 uses an 'on-demand' four-wheel drive system, which adjusts torque distribution based on grip requirements. It was sold in various markets but notably not in the United States.

Wheel fitment

Bolt pattern (PCD)5x100
Centre bore57.1 mm
Bolt / threadM14x1.5 (bolts)
Wheel-bolt torque120 Nm
Seat typeradius
Factory setupsquare
TPMSindirect

Aftermarket wheel sizes — read per position:

PositionWidthOffset
Front7.5J–8.5JET27–ET38

As a rule, each extra 1J of width wants roughly +8–10 ET to keep the wheel tucked. The exact offset and any spacer are confirmed by the fit-check.

Browse wheels that fit a Audi S3 →Get them fitted (UK)

UK popularity & demand

~36,303 Audi S3 licensed on UK roads — top 8% of models by volume.

Based on DfT VEH0124 vehicle-parc data (2025), there are approximately 36,303 Audi S3 on UK roads, placing it in the top 8% of car models by volume across our fitment database. That makes its wheel fitment a high-demand size to keep in stock — one reason we track its exact spec here.

Source: DfT/DVLA licensed-vehicle statistics (VEH0124), matched to the AIWheelTech fitment database.

Engines & drivetrain

VariantEngineFuelPowerDrive
2.0L I4 Turbo TFSI (facelift)2.0L straight-4 turbocharged petrol engine with gasoline direct petrol310 hpquattro
2.0L I4 Turbo FSI Evo 42.0L straight-4 turbocharged petrol engine with gasoline direct petrol310 hpquattro
2.0L I4 Turbo TFSI2.0L straight-4 turbocharged petrol engine with gasoline direct petrol300 hpquattro
2.0L I4 Turbo FSI2.0L straight-4 turbocharged petrol engine with gasoline direct petrol258 hpquattro
1.8L I4 turbo (later version)1.8L straight-4, 20v turbocharged petrol engine with variable vapetrol225 hpquattro
1.8L I4 turbo1.8L straight-4, 20v turbocharged petrol enginepetrol210 hpquattro

Performance

VariantPower0–62 mphTop speed
2.0L I4 Turbo FSI258 hp5.5 s155 mph
2.0L I4 Turbo TFSI300 hp5.1 s155 mph
2.0L I4 Turbo TFSI (facelift)310 hp5 s155 mph
2.0L I4 Turbo FSI Evo 4310 hp4.8 s155 mph

Dimensions

Kerb weight1495 kg

Body styles & production

Body stylesHatchback
Produced1999–present

Trim levels

Standard

Factory colours

Polar White Clearcoat (LY9H/P1)

History & notable variants

The first generation Audi S3 underwent a minor facelift in 2000 with updated headlights and front wings. The engine received variable valve timing for improved performance from 2001 onwards, increasing power to 225 PS. It was well-received for its blend of luxury and sportiness.

Reliability & owner notes