AUDI S3 (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 235 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
72%
Total Tests (2024)
235
Avg Mileage
137,030 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,017
Is the 2003 AUDI S3 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 10 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the AUDI brand average of 90%.
At 21 years old, 72% of AUDI S3s from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 235 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 137,030 miles.
How does the 2003 AUDI S3 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 AUDI S3 has 137,030 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2003 AUDI S3 cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
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 2003 AUDI S3
The 2003 AUDI S3 is a premium with a 1781cc petrol engine. 235 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2003, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 137,030 miles at 21 years old, AUDI S3 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2003 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 2003 AUDI S3?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,017 (£168/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 72% 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 2003 AUDI S3
At 21 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.
Alternatives to the 2003 AUDI S3
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MINI MINI (2005) 71% pass rate (-1%) from 45,707 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2005) 71% pass rate (-1%) from 41,794 tests
- FORD FIESTA (2003) 71% pass rate (-1%) from 29,898 tests
- TOYOTA YARIS (2005) 73% pass rate (+1%) from 29,754 tests