Audi - A3 (1997)

Audi A3 – the compact hatchback that blends sportiness with practicality, introduced in the late 1990s and still favored by car buyers today. If you’re curious about its current Audi A3 price trends, the 1997 model’s heritage, or the right price for a used Audi A3, this guide pulls together all the facts you need. We’ll walk through the key specs, depreciation path, and how this iconic model stacks up against its peers in the market.

• Model year: 1997 (first generation) – a landmark version that set the stage for later 3‑Series cars.
• Engine: 1.4 L I4 (57 hp) or 1.6 L I4 (81 hp) options, with turbocharged variants up to 107 hp.
• Transmission: 4‑speed manual or optional 5‑speed manual, some models equipped with a 5‑speed DSG dual clutch.
• Fuel type: 87 / 91 RON gasoline, diesel available in certain markets.
• Dimensions: Length: 3,480 mm; Width: 1,722 mm; Height: 1,385 mm; Wheelbase: 2,319 mm.
• Drive: Front‑wheel drive, with optional all‑wheel drive for certain performance trims.
• Performance: 0‑100 km/h in 10.2 s (1.4 L) or 7.6 s (turbocharged 1.6 L).
• Fuel economy: 6.7‑7.9 L/100 km (combined) depending on engine and configuration.
• Interior: Leather seating option in higher trims; safety features include dual airbags, ABS, stability control.
• Trim levels:* 1O, 1KO, 1K, 1KME (turbo), and various optional packages.

Understanding how the Audi A3 depreciation curve plays out helps buyers make smarter decisions. In general, a new vehicle begins to shed value quickly after the first year due to the dreaded “new‑car syndrome.” For a 1997 Audi A3, typical depreciation looks like this:

• First year – loses 15 %–20 % of its original MSRP.
• Year 2–3 – declines another 8 %–10 % each year.
• Year 4‑5 – the rate slows to about 5 % per year, with a noticeable drop for the 1997 model due to its age.
• Year 6+ – the vehicle stabilizes, retaining around 20 %–25 % of its initial value (if in good condition).

So if a 1997 Audi A3 initially cost around €30,000, its expected market value after five years would fall to roughly €8,000–€9,500. Keep in mind that country‑specific depreciation rates can vary based on fuel costs, interest rates, and demand for European cars.

What is a 1997 Audi A3 worth? This question frequently pops up in online forums and marketplaces. The answer hinges on mileage, maintenance history, and condition. Typical market listings for a 1997 model range from €6,500 to €12,000 depending on these factors. A truly well‑maintained example with low mileage will sit on the upper side; a neglected unit with high mileage will trend near the lower end.

When you’re evaluating the used Audi A3 price of a 1997, compare it to other compact hatchbacks from the same era:

• Volkswagen Polo 1998: identical segment, but generally slightly lower price range (~€5,500–€9,000).
• Ford

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