Audi RS3 8V or VW Golf R Mk7? They're rivals, so owners often weigh one against the other. Here's how far each one goes, using the makers' and tuners' own figures from our two guides.
At a glance
| Audi RS3 8V | VW Golf R Mk7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Years | 2015–2020 | 2014–2020 |
| Engine | 2.5 TFSI EA855 EVO | 2.0 TSI EA888 Gen 3 |
| Stock power | 394 hp / 354 lb-ft (US, 2017+) | 292 hp / 280 lb-ft (US) |
Power by stage
| Audi RS3 8V | VW Golf R Mk7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Stock | 394 hp | 292 hp |
| Stage 1 | 459–542 hp | 355–413 hp |
| Stage 2 | 493–574 hp | 397–461 hp |
| Stage 3 | 700+ hp | 470–536 hp |
| Stage 4 | 800+ hp | 550+ hp |
Figures are the tuners' own claims from each guide, on the fuel each tuner states.
Typical parts cost
| Audi RS3 8V | VW Golf R Mk7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | — | software $500–$560 (IE, APR). |
| Stage 2 | — | IE Stage 2 software $625; intake $521 (034), £316 (APR) or €883 (Eventuri); intercooler $540–$1,200 or £899 (Wagner). |
| Stage 3 | — | IE software for bigger turbos $750; the turbo is extra. |
List prices from the guides, before shipping, import tax and fitting. "—" means that guide has no cost line for the stage.
Where each one ends up
At Stage 4 the Audi RS3 8V reaches 800+ hp and the VW Golf R Mk7 550+ hp.
Read the full guides
- The Audi RS3 8V guide
- The VW Golf R Mk7 guide
- Compare other cars in the compare tool
- All comparisons