M3 or RS3?

FC · 08-03-2017, 11:31 AM

I've been quick to dismiss the RS3 for it's lack of manual, transverse engine layout, and general non-BMW-ness, but it is $10K cheaper, and it's AWD. And given its projected year-round around town use, that's a huge plus. In real life, it may well be much faster than an M3. Reviews claim it is more fun and faster than an M2.

It also sounds good and it's smaller. It's newer. And I can still do ED next year. In fact, I could wait until the following year - something I cannot do with the BMW because it ends production next year.

The big issue is the lack of manual.

Thoughts?

08-03-2017, 11:31 AM	#1
FC Solving problems Join Date: Oct 2003 Carmudgeonly Ride: M5 / 718 GTS / Cooper S / GTI / LR4 Location: Metro Boston Posts: 25,248	M3 or RS3? I've been quick to dismiss the RS3 for it's lack of manual, transverse engine layout, and general non-BMW-ness, but it is $10K cheaper, and it's AWD. And given its projected year-round around town use, that's a huge plus. In real life, it may well be much faster than an M3. Reviews claim it is more fun and faster than an M2. It also sounds good and it's smaller. It's newer. And I can still do ED next year. In fact, I could wait until the following year - something I cannot do with the BMW because it ends production next year. The big issue is the lack of manual. Thoughts?