AUDI S3 (2001)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 237 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
80%
Total Tests (2024)
237
Avg Mileage
123,516 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,867
Is the 2001 AUDI S3 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the AUDI brand average of 90%.
At 23 years old, 80% of AUDI S3s from 2001 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 237 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 123,516 miles.
How does the 2001 AUDI S3 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2001 AUDI S3 has 123,516 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 170,200 miles for a 23-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a AUDI S3?
The most reliable year is the 2017 model with a 96% MOT pass rate, while the 2003 model has the lowest at 72%. The 2001 sits between the two at 80%.
How much does a 2001 AUDI S3 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
AUDI S3 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 96% | 49 | 32,831 mi |
| 2018 | 93% | 100 | 48,229 mi |
| 2017 | 96% | 135 | 60,095 mi |
| 2016 | 93% | 190 | 61,138 mi |
| 2015 | 94% | 537 | 70,456 mi |
| 2014 | 91% | 1,975 | 75,271 mi |
| 2013 | 92% | 616 | 80,060 mi |
| 2012 | 87% | 341 | 88,186 mi |
| 2011 | 87% | 835 | 89,620 mi |
| 2010 | 85% | 1,034 | 96,246 mi |
| 2009 | 88% | 643 | 100,681 mi |
| 2008 | 85% | 620 | 114,238 mi |
| 2007 | 84% | 671 | 117,265 mi |
| 2006 | 81% | 54 | 112,877 mi |
| 2003 | 72% | 235 | 137,030 mi |
| 2002 | 80% | 362 | 128,988 mi |
| 2001 | 80% | 237 | 123,516 mi |
| 2000 | 79% | 141 | 132,942 mi |
| 1999 | 76% | 132 | 143,273 mi |
Checking a specific AUDI S3?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2001 AUDI S3
The 2001 AUDI S3 is a premium with a 1781cc petrol engine. 237 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It ranks in the top 22% of all 2001 cars for reliability.
With an average of 123,516 miles at 23 years old, AUDI S3 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2001 AUDI S3 Fuel Costs
The 1781cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2001 AUDI S3?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,867 (£156/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 80% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
AUDI S3 Reliability Trend
Newer AUDI S3s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 10 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2001 AUDI S3
At 23 years old, the AUDI S3 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2017 model has the highest pass rate at 96%.
Alternatives to the 2001 AUDI S3
The AUDI S3 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol premiums from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2003) 71% pass rate (-9%) from 29,898 tests
- MINI MINI (2003) 72% pass rate (-8%) from 25,713 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2003) 68% pass rate (-12%) from 22,313 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2003) 67% pass rate (-13%) from 21,166 tests