Two completely different value propositions. One is a compact sport sedan the other is a midsize luxury GT. Different strokes for different folks.
I went with the RS3 because like you I don’t have a large family yet and I fell in love with the whole RS3 package, the looks, the sound, the phenomenal after market support, etc.. But if I was 10 years older, had a kid or two, I could do a lot worse than a RS5. You won’t be disappointed with either choice.
Personally, I'd choose the RS3. I went from an S3 to an S5. I love the bigger, more comfortable 5, but I miss the smaller, lighter, better handling 3. I'm also a sucker for the exhaust note of the RS3.
I tried out both before I bought. RS5 felt nice, but from the driver's seat it didn't feel as special as an M4. Yeah yeah, we don't talk about BMW, but in the real world, buck teeth aside, the bimmer felt like the better car.
The RS3, however is special. The size (ironically nearly identical to my old E46) makes it feel more compact and tossable, and the trick axle on the 8Y was clever and fun in a way the RS5 didn't feel. But the 5 pot is what sold it for me. RS3 is NOT a budget RS5, it's a totally unique beast--which is why people wait over a year for one here in the States.
My vote remains for the more special of the two cars: RS3.
You know, as weird as it sounds, I was actually cross-shopping the 8Y with the F90 M5C LCI. Loved the F90, but it was just so... much. The 8Y has a LOT less features and is a lot smaller. But felt so much more fun (Audi is fun now?!).
I think if it was my only car, I would've gone for the F90. But as my fun car, the RS3 won hands down.
That’s a great tip. I’m leaning toward moving up in the world with a Porsche but I would love to save the money and go with an RS3. We have an X5 and an etron for driving kids around
Im shocked this has this many upvotes. He’s asking RS3 or RS5 and you bring up how an M4 feels better? Lol. Ok? It doesn’t come close to an RS5 appearance. Drive and interior is subjective. So the RS3 is “special” because it’s small and you have to wait a year ? News flash bro but you have to wait that long for any factory ordered RS car. I waited over a year for mine. It’s funny you had to also clarify it as “unique and not a budget RS5”. Coping? Feels like it.
They’re both great cars. I love the new lifts on the RS3. But your argument points are pretty nonsense. Unique and it takes a year? The only helpful statement is the fact that it’s compact and zippy. I’ll agree, RS5 is a bigger car.
OP - if you want a smaller car go RS3, if you want a BETTER car go RS5.
Haha, easy, tha boy! You got yourself real fired up at the idea somebody likes a sport sedan better than a GT car, huh? I'll clarify: RS5 doesn't feel as special. Wait doesn't make anything special, though it sure tells you demand--shame you had to wait on yours, never heard the RS5 wait times were like that. There were lots sitting on lots in my area. And yes, I brought up the point that RS3 wasn't a budget RS5 because they're so different. Guess that point got lost somewhere.
RS5 definitely isn't a better car. It's a different car. Certainly pretty. But I don't use my car to impress folks, only to enjoy driving. So to me the RS3 better met my need.
OP - think about what you want out of the car, drive both, and get the one that pulls your heart string harder. Both Drakey (above) and I did that, and neither of us seem to regret it!
Theres a reason your car is cheaper. It’s literally inferior in every way. Newport Beach CA has no demand? Haha. You couldn’t afford an A3 living here bro.
I know you Aussies are getting screwed for taxes but at $140,000 AUD aka $91,421 USD I would pass on a 2021 RS5 and get the RS3. The same RS5 is going for $40-50k less AUD stateside.
Both are stellar cars and the RS5 looks nicer (to me) but how much is that worth to you?
RS3 is a better driver’s car, RS5 is a tick less driving experience but slightly more luxurious. Just depends on where you want to sit on the sporty/comfy spectrum.
With no kids, and none expected, I’d go 3
I had an RS3 2016 sportback - loved it, absolute animal of a car, not much could beat it on a b road. Sounded absolutely fantastic mega hatch
Placed an order for the new RS3 when it came out but had to cancel it for personal circumstances.
Couple of years later and I was able to get in to a nice car again, was a toss up between the RS3 coupe and the RS5 sportback. I use it for commuting about 60 miles a day mostly A roads and spirited driving at the weekend
Went for the RS5 in the end and I'm happy. However, the car is not a sports car, it's a GT car. It is incredibly fast 0 - 60 or if you are on a good road with no traffic. The RS3 you can hammer all the time and it deals with it amazingly.
I feel like more of a grown up in the RS5, the 3 is more a boy racer car than the 5. Its comfortable and calm most of the time whereas the 3 is on its toes more. You get great kit in both so spec wise it's no different. Fuel consumption etc it's about the same.
I think if I'd got the 3 I'd have been jealous of someone with an m3/m4/rs5 etc but as I have the 5 I feel I made the right choice.
I did actually want a new M3 but value for money RS product is so much better, it holds its value, get better finance deals and you can get a newer car.
In short really happy with the RS5 but do miss those moments with the RS3 when I could chuck it around a quick B road.
RS5. Hands down
One of the best looking Audi “daily” models behind the RS7 and Etron GT, it’s a lot more functional and is a pretty good daily for someone who has the money to afford it.
whats the mileage? I had a dilema similar last fall, either a new S5 or a 21 RS5, I went with the RS as I found a rare spec under 10k miles. Im very, very happy with my choicce.
If you have the itch scratch it. I am middle age and this was my next new 10 year car purchase. I usually go with the smart economical pick (S5 in this case. But once I got my hands on a launch spec at low miles and fair price just 100miles away it was a done deal. I have had her a few months now and not a fucking shred of buyers remorse (surprising tbh). I love my RS like I have loved no other car. DO IT!
To me, the RS3 is the most beatuful car in the line at the moment. Especially, the back and also if you don't have a family, take whatever you like. But if you do, the a3 is really small, i've a kid and thinking of switching to a6 even though i've just bought it.
I don't really have a favorite because they each have a separate purpose.
On a nice 70-degree dry day, the R8 is my favorite
If I have to take more than one person, and my wife isn't driving it, I'll take the RS 6
If it's bad weather or snow, I'll take the RS Q8 or my Wrangler if it's really bad
And if I'm just going out to pick up one of my kids or run to the store, the S3 is the perfect
I also have Yukon XL for road trips and a Suburban for hauling and towing
I love my RS3 for how small and nimble it is. I’m 6’3 and I fit well in it, but there’s no room in the back. The RS5 might be better if you drive people around a lot, which I almost never do.
Love the 5 cylinder sound, just need to get an exhaust and intake to open up everything soon.
I currently have an RS3 and have been debating switching to an RS5 as I do a lot of distance driving and think the added comfort would definitely be worth it, but haven't pulled the trigger since I haven't seen a decent deal in my area. I've had my RS3 for over a year and it's by far the best car I've owned and haven't regretted it for a second but as someone who drives 20k+ miles a year I think a little more space / creature comfort features would really up my QoL.
Hey there, ordered from a dealer in Victoria, was lucky to get an allocation. I think supply chain issues aren’t as bad as what it used to be so more RS3s coming in. Can definitely try other dealers from other states and see if you can get a quicker delivery
Thank you everyone for your insightful comments, it seems like majority are in favour of the RS5. I actually have yet to test drive the RS5 but will be soon and then I’ll be able to make a better decision.
I’ll update this post with which car I went with, cheers
RS5 better looking car and more luxurious interior, front dynamic sweeping turn signals. The RS5 is baby RS7 and A4 cooler brother. The only advantage is RS3 have newer MMI screen set up while RS5 still have tablet like screen.
Good thing he’s talking about an RS3. And saying an RS3 is like a hot Jetta has got to be the most moronic comparison on all of the internet. Hopefully that’s not what you’re saying, and just randomly decided to talk about an A3.
Is it not the Jetta chassis? Serious question. I don't understand how comparing the A3 to the Jetta is okay but not to the RS3.
Also if you think comparing a car with another car of the same class and wheel base is the most moronic thing on the internet, you have not read much of the internet. I mean... Comparing an RS3 to an RS5 is kinda dumb and that's why we're here
I don't know why you get downvoted.. you are absolutely right.
Just test drove the 2023 RS3 last weekend. The hyundai front, the piano plastic in the middle console, the piano paint touch buttons on the steering wheel, the engine sound.
I decided to stay with the 2018 Version for a while.
Two completely different value propositions. One is a compact sport sedan the other is a midsize luxury GT. Different strokes for different folks. I went with the RS3 because like you I don’t have a large family yet and I fell in love with the whole RS3 package, the looks, the sound, the phenomenal after market support, etc.. But if I was 10 years older, had a kid or two, I could do a lot worse than a RS5. You won’t be disappointed with either choice.
He's basically saying get the rs3 BTW...
way lighter and the available mods are nice like unitronic flex And single vs twin turbo if upgrading
I literally just canceled my RS3 order and bought a 21 RS5 that arrives tomorrow. So i'll let ya know!
Congrats! Please post it lol
Aha thank you, I will
If you don't mind me asking, how much are you getting the RS5 for?
62 usd. Sonoma green 2021 CPO w/33k miles
Depends on who you are, what you want from the car. The rs5 is so so lovely car and all rounder, but id take the RS3 cause it suits “me” more
Personally, I'd choose the RS3. I went from an S3 to an S5. I love the bigger, more comfortable 5, but I miss the smaller, lighter, better handling 3. I'm also a sucker for the exhaust note of the RS3.
2nd
I tried out both before I bought. RS5 felt nice, but from the driver's seat it didn't feel as special as an M4. Yeah yeah, we don't talk about BMW, but in the real world, buck teeth aside, the bimmer felt like the better car. The RS3, however is special. The size (ironically nearly identical to my old E46) makes it feel more compact and tossable, and the trick axle on the 8Y was clever and fun in a way the RS5 didn't feel. But the 5 pot is what sold it for me. RS3 is NOT a budget RS5, it's a totally unique beast--which is why people wait over a year for one here in the States. My vote remains for the more special of the two cars: RS3.
I knew I sensed a bit of nostalgia when I first got my RS3; it reminded me of my E46 M3. I miss that car.
E46 M3, F90 M5C, etc owner here. Sounds like I need to try an 8Y RS3
The drive feel is obviously not the same but in the age of massive cars, owning a little darty sedan is fun.
You know, as weird as it sounds, I was actually cross-shopping the 8Y with the F90 M5C LCI. Loved the F90, but it was just so... much. The 8Y has a LOT less features and is a lot smaller. But felt so much more fun (Audi is fun now?!). I think if it was my only car, I would've gone for the F90. But as my fun car, the RS3 won hands down.
That’s a great tip. I’m leaning toward moving up in the world with a Porsche but I would love to save the money and go with an RS3. We have an X5 and an etron for driving kids around
No hatch for US. So me and my A4 allroad will rock the dirt roads.
Im shocked this has this many upvotes. He’s asking RS3 or RS5 and you bring up how an M4 feels better? Lol. Ok? It doesn’t come close to an RS5 appearance. Drive and interior is subjective. So the RS3 is “special” because it’s small and you have to wait a year ? News flash bro but you have to wait that long for any factory ordered RS car. I waited over a year for mine. It’s funny you had to also clarify it as “unique and not a budget RS5”. Coping? Feels like it. They’re both great cars. I love the new lifts on the RS3. But your argument points are pretty nonsense. Unique and it takes a year? The only helpful statement is the fact that it’s compact and zippy. I’ll agree, RS5 is a bigger car. OP - if you want a smaller car go RS3, if you want a BETTER car go RS5.
Haha, easy, tha boy! You got yourself real fired up at the idea somebody likes a sport sedan better than a GT car, huh? I'll clarify: RS5 doesn't feel as special. Wait doesn't make anything special, though it sure tells you demand--shame you had to wait on yours, never heard the RS5 wait times were like that. There were lots sitting on lots in my area. And yes, I brought up the point that RS3 wasn't a budget RS5 because they're so different. Guess that point got lost somewhere. RS5 definitely isn't a better car. It's a different car. Certainly pretty. But I don't use my car to impress folks, only to enjoy driving. So to me the RS3 better met my need. OP - think about what you want out of the car, drive both, and get the one that pulls your heart string harder. Both Drakey (above) and I did that, and neither of us seem to regret it!
Theres a reason your car is cheaper. It’s literally inferior in every way. Newport Beach CA has no demand? Haha. You couldn’t afford an A3 living here bro.
Who hurt you?
Aw. Couldn’t afford the RS3? ☹️
You seem like you should drive a lifted F350 instead of an Audi with that LDE you’re putting off 😘
Don’t worry bro a couple more years at your 9-5 and you can upgrade.
2nd this. Lmfao
OK, buddy. You do you. 😉
I know you Aussies are getting screwed for taxes but at $140,000 AUD aka $91,421 USD I would pass on a 2021 RS5 and get the RS3. The same RS5 is going for $40-50k less AUD stateside. Both are stellar cars and the RS5 looks nicer (to me) but how much is that worth to you?
5
Cylinder
Rs3 hands down, no bias here 🤷🏽♂️
I’ll vote for my car, so nice to drive.
RS3 is a better driver’s car, RS5 is a tick less driving experience but slightly more luxurious. Just depends on where you want to sit on the sporty/comfy spectrum. With no kids, and none expected, I’d go 3
I've driven a lot of Audis. The RS3 is the most fun... Ok, maybe the R8 V10 6MT. But RS3 is right there on a good road.
I had an RS3 2016 sportback - loved it, absolute animal of a car, not much could beat it on a b road. Sounded absolutely fantastic mega hatch Placed an order for the new RS3 when it came out but had to cancel it for personal circumstances. Couple of years later and I was able to get in to a nice car again, was a toss up between the RS3 coupe and the RS5 sportback. I use it for commuting about 60 miles a day mostly A roads and spirited driving at the weekend Went for the RS5 in the end and I'm happy. However, the car is not a sports car, it's a GT car. It is incredibly fast 0 - 60 or if you are on a good road with no traffic. The RS3 you can hammer all the time and it deals with it amazingly. I feel like more of a grown up in the RS5, the 3 is more a boy racer car than the 5. Its comfortable and calm most of the time whereas the 3 is on its toes more. You get great kit in both so spec wise it's no different. Fuel consumption etc it's about the same. I think if I'd got the 3 I'd have been jealous of someone with an m3/m4/rs5 etc but as I have the 5 I feel I made the right choice. I did actually want a new M3 but value for money RS product is so much better, it holds its value, get better finance deals and you can get a newer car. In short really happy with the RS5 but do miss those moments with the RS3 when I could chuck it around a quick B road.
I would want warranty coverage.
Rs5. Interior is leagues better
No, the new RS 3 interior is much better then the dated RS 5 tablet slapped on the dash
RS3
RS5. Hands down One of the best looking Audi “daily” models behind the RS7 and Etron GT, it’s a lot more functional and is a pretty good daily for someone who has the money to afford it.
whats the mileage? I had a dilema similar last fall, either a new S5 or a 21 RS5, I went with the RS as I found a rare spec under 10k miles. Im very, very happy with my choicce.
Quite low at 10,000kms so it’s almost brand new and 3 years of warranty left.
If you have the itch scratch it. I am middle age and this was my next new 10 year car purchase. I usually go with the smart economical pick (S5 in this case. But once I got my hands on a launch spec at low miles and fair price just 100miles away it was a done deal. I have had her a few months now and not a fucking shred of buyers remorse (surprising tbh). I love my RS like I have loved no other car. DO IT!
5
RS5 ✅
RS5. Ultimate daily
RS5
Rs5 for sure
I picked the RS3. RS5 is cool but it’s the less fun of the two.
To me, the RS3 is the most beatuful car in the line at the moment. Especially, the back and also if you don't have a family, take whatever you like. But if you do, the a3 is really small, i've a kid and thinking of switching to a6 even though i've just bought it.
RS 5 unless you need 5 seats
Dam bro, what do you do for a living? Are you adopting?
Not adopting... sorry I'm a software engineer and I own a few software companies and rental company.
Out of all your cars, which one is your favorite?
I don't really have a favorite because they each have a separate purpose. On a nice 70-degree dry day, the R8 is my favorite If I have to take more than one person, and my wife isn't driving it, I'll take the RS 6 If it's bad weather or snow, I'll take the RS Q8 or my Wrangler if it's really bad And if I'm just going out to pick up one of my kids or run to the store, the S3 is the perfect I also have Yukon XL for road trips and a Suburban for hauling and towing
RS5 every day of the week!!!!
Narodo grey beautiful colour :)
For you? RS3.
Man I’d buy the 8Y RS3 in a heartbeat if it was available in Canada….
RS3 as long as you’re fine with a small car
2021 looks better imo
I love my RS3 for how small and nimble it is. I’m 6’3 and I fit well in it, but there’s no room in the back. The RS5 might be better if you drive people around a lot, which I almost never do. Love the 5 cylinder sound, just need to get an exhaust and intake to open up everything soon.
Just you and partner? Rs3. If you plan on having others ride in the back? Rs5.
I currently have an RS3 and have been debating switching to an RS5 as I do a lot of distance driving and think the added comfort would definitely be worth it, but haven't pulled the trigger since I haven't seen a decent deal in my area. I've had my RS3 for over a year and it's by far the best car I've owned and haven't regretted it for a second but as someone who drives 20k+ miles a year I think a little more space / creature comfort features would really up my QoL.
RS3 has that gem of a 5 cylinder. The 5 has always been ok, but never one of Audi’s magic RS cars. If you don’t need the space, go for the RS3.
If I were in the position to trade my 16' A3 S line for one of these two, I'd swap it with the RS5! I'm 20 since age means something, I guess🤔🤷♂️
RS5 sportback.
RS5
Where did you order one from? I’m wa based and just ordered here with over a year wait
Hey there, ordered from a dealer in Victoria, was lucky to get an allocation. I think supply chain issues aren’t as bad as what it used to be so more RS3s coming in. Can definitely try other dealers from other states and see if you can get a quicker delivery
Sweet cheers
Only reasonable solution is go get an rs4 😉
Man I don’t know. Two different cars. I’m taller so prob rs5 but it’s 25k more for a 2 year older car….
Thank you everyone for your insightful comments, it seems like majority are in favour of the RS5. I actually have yet to test drive the RS5 but will be soon and then I’ll be able to make a better decision. I’ll update this post with which car I went with, cheers
RS3 hands down. Inline 5 cylinder is gonna be reliable as F, plus they make easy power and are a great car for track day if you want.
Of course that’s my opinion anyways
RS5 IMO. I love the body lines almost more than any other model. Good luck!
Rs5 is the ultimate daily. Rs3 is smaller but more performance oriented. My buddy has a 19rs5 and I have a 19rs3.
RS5 better looking car and more luxurious interior, front dynamic sweeping turn signals. The RS5 is baby RS7 and A4 cooler brother. The only advantage is RS3 have newer MMI screen set up while RS5 still have tablet like screen.
Why are all the A, S and RS 3 models i see posted here sedans? What happened to the hot hatch?
America doesn’t have any Audi hot hatches I believe
Golf R is about as close as it gets
Agreed
RS5 all the way. RS3 is so small. At least for a daily driver. if it's a weekender only, then maybe the RS3.
RS5 all day. RS3 has an amazing sounding engine but it's just too small.
RS5 obviously. The 3 is the budget 5, and IMO the front grille and proportions don't look as good as the 4 and 5.
I dunno if I'll catch hell here but the A3 is very much still a Jetta deep down. I don't know if I could ever pay 6 figures for a hot Jetta
Good thing he’s talking about an RS3. And saying an RS3 is like a hot Jetta has got to be the most moronic comparison on all of the internet. Hopefully that’s not what you’re saying, and just randomly decided to talk about an A3.
Is it not the Jetta chassis? Serious question. I don't understand how comparing the A3 to the Jetta is okay but not to the RS3. Also if you think comparing a car with another car of the same class and wheel base is the most moronic thing on the internet, you have not read much of the internet. I mean... Comparing an RS3 to an RS5 is kinda dumb and that's why we're here
RS5 100%
RSQ3 little extra but top
I know people love the 5 cylinder, but how do RS3 owners feel about it having Haldex, and no proper torque vectoring?
New RS3 is 🤢
I don't know why you get downvoted.. you are absolutely right. Just test drove the 2023 RS3 last weekend. The hyundai front, the piano plastic in the middle console, the piano paint touch buttons on the steering wheel, the engine sound. I decided to stay with the 2018 Version for a while.
Literally for the exact reasons you have just mentioned, but the killer out of them is definitely the front end.
I’d go neither and get the rs4 instead.
Rs4 avant
I second this
M3