Audi A3 - Standard Variants - 1st Gen (1996 to 2003)

The First Generation of Audi A3 was introduced for the 1997 model year, sharing the platform of the Volkswagen Golf MK4. The 1st Gen A3 was initially offered in a two-door hatchback body style, with a four-door hatchback added to the range in 1999. These cars were equipped with a front-mounted, transverse inline-four engine, available as a naturally aspirated 1.6L or 1.8L, turbocharged 1.8L, or diesel 1.9L. These engines were paired to manual or automatic transmission options, and depending on configuration, would send power to the front wheels or all four wheels. In 1999, Audi launched the S3, a performance-focused version of the A3. In 2000, Audi gave the 1st Gen A3 a redesign that lasted until 2003, when the Second Generation Audi A3 debuted.