I bought the M135i after watching this and it's bloody brilliant. It's perfectly capable of driving round town and doing the regular daily commute - something I do each day when I drive into the city to work. It's quiet, comfortable and the steering is very accurate and direct. You put your foot down at the lights and it leave all other (normal) cars standing.
I had an RS3 2012 and I have the M135 with xdrive now (A must have in Sweden). You are so right Mr.Harris! The sound, quality of riding and again the sound, the symphony from 4-7k rpm is the deciding factor when choosing between these hothaches. It is addicting! I managed to get 4,4 to 100km/h (Not relevant I know). And as you say, I dont know what you want more for a car on the road.. It is more quit, more refine and modern than the RS3. Cruising on the highway i managed 8,1L/100km with the eco pro thingy and the gear just coasts as soon as it can reading the GPS information about the road, it is just high tech. The DSG on the Audi is good, but not as smooth in town as the ZF. I drove the M2 and it is mind blowing, but for everyday use the M135 is your car.. And people, stop crying about the 4WD, you can buy it with the xdrive, and it is amazing. And yes you can go sideways!
Real AWD is always better then Haldex AWD(RS3 has Haldex). I have Haldex and it is good enough but I wish I had real full time AWD like in xDrive, real Quattro, Subies and the such.
The xdrive is on another level. both are super stabil, but the xdrive is more fun, real easy to oversteer in snow (Sweden) in sport+. The Audi doesn't really want to oversteer, it just point and accelerate..
After having just ordered the last of the M140i's a week before BMW stopped taking build orders, I had to come back and pay homage to this video that started it for many. I am just thankful that in 2019, I am lucky enough to taste this once in a generation gem of a bargain. Cannot wait.
I can only assume the m140i is even better than the m135i. Apart from the obvious increase in power they probably sorted out some of the few minuses they had with the 135i
Simply accelerate on a small curve without breaking until the very end of the curve, then one understands why a BMW is better than an Audi. It does not mean Audi is shit, but here are their limits..
I bought a used high spec 135i because of this review... Its bloody awsome. Very fast, sounds amazing, actually not too awful on fuel and quite comfortable. My only complaint is I wish bmw would of made it look just slightly more special than the standard 1 series. That is the only complaint though. I drove an rs3 and it was really good but the bmw just makes you smile with its straight six screaming away. Just great.
+Ian Townsend ...i wonderd if I'am the only one who noticed that. I've compared these cars, before ordering the m135i xdrive. there was a massive difference of ca. 15.000 € in austria. The RS3 is good, but it feels old, heavy, hard...and isn't the right car vor every day use.
This is what I call a review. Full of *relevant* detail and great no-b.s., to the point delivery. I can watch a review by Chris Harris and mostly feel like I just took advantage of a no-limits, 6 hour test drive. I'm thankful guys like Chris Harris and this show exist. Now if I can be rich enough to first buy all the cars I want (and modify them appropriately) and get them reviewed by this show. :-)
Great review! Good stuff for driving enthusiasts. I'm not a fan of BMWs but I can feel the pleasure he's getting from it as opposed to the 4wd machine. Also addressed the key point for anyone that loves to drive, open diff.
I was an Audi guy but after getting accustomed to bmw’s legendary In-line 6 there was no turning back. The 2 s4’s I had were phenomenal performers with the v6 twin turbo. But every seal, gasket and bushing needed replacing on either at around 130,000. We are talking like $8000 for a $11,000 car. I sold them and went Bmw n52 and frankly have had far less issues.
After a year our BMW 135M conv. Has become the favorite. Streets or freeways, this little rocketship never fails. From ramp speed to 80 with a beautiful growl I'm always amazed at being so invisible. Small and Un-noticed it's like driving around in a Vulcan Bird of Prey in Stealth Mode.
"Bird of Prey in Stealth Mode" - That is EXACTLY what it feels like :-D Keep out of sport mode and it is so quiet nobody even sees you... until you pass them.
Great review Chris! It goes to show once again that even if a car looks better on paper, nothing can compare to how it drives, the feeling that all car lovers enjoy, fun. Straight 6 engine up front, RWD, that's the way mother nature intended. Also the BMW sounds excellent.
All I'd like to see now, is a review for the new M140i. I know there won't be a massive difference, but I'm keen to see what improvements BMW has made. Mostly because I'm coming to the end of my apprenticeship, and want a nice hot hatch to celebrate, the M140i being at the top of the list.
This was one of the reviews which convinced me the M140i was the one for me. I haven't looked back since I bought it, well, only to see the cars I have just gapped.
@@neil5242go ahead and tune that 5 cylinder and see which one has more power. RS3s are capable of reaching over 1000hp if tuned right. 5 cylinder also sounds a million times better.
@No you Nope. You can make an oversteery car understeer, but you can't make an understeery car oversteer if your life depended on it. I wonder why racing cars (such as F1 and GT3) use RWD... hmmm, that's a bit of a conundrum eh?
@No you F1 is mid engined you fuckwit. Every other GT3 car apart from the Porsche is either front or mid engined. The AMG GT dominated the Blancpain series a while back. Are you on crack or are you just braindead? Learn the difference between RWD and rear-engined. The fact the engine is the back has nothing to do with them being faster. They're faster because the front wheels don't have to both provide thrust and turn at the same time like they do with FWD cars. Fucking muppet.
3 kinds of enthusiasts: the one who wants to be the fastest, the one who wants to look the best, and the one that loves the drive. The S3 will attract the ones who want to be the fastest in the real world/straight line, M135i for the ones that love the drive, and the one who wants to look the best will go the stance route. Personally, I'm the M135i kind.
i don't know whats wrong with you guys ?! Running around with your pink audi glasses..yes audi makes probably the best looking cars and there fast in a straight line...and yes the fast for people who don't know how to really drive, but this dude was a very good race driver. So he knows what he is speaking about. And if you really can drive and want to hit fast laps on a race track and want to have fun with the car bmw are yust the better choice !
Having owned an S3 previously i know exactly what Chris is saying, the best engine and fourwheel drive system in the world will never make up for the misery that is understeer. The whole point of these cars is driver and involvement and having fun, understeer will ruin your experience and there is pretty much nothing which can cure that.
I watched this video years ago when it came out, and just before I bought my m135i a few weeks ago, I watched it again and if sealed the deal. What a car btw...
I first watched this review back in early 2014 and very quickly acquired a build slot on a mineral grey M135i - still got it, longest I've ever owned a car and it still makes me smile even as a daily driver and work tool most of the time. Awesome little car and a great all rounder
The ultimate driving machine vs the ultimate transport machine. One is for people looking for driving pleasure the other for people looking for safe transports.
I am a big Audi fan but the RS3 is overrated. I would rather get the S3 or even the normal TFSI and tune it. The new one as it is already matches the straight line performance of the current RS3 so why waste all that money.
yes you are correct but you get let weight in the front. i got A3 8v 2.0t with IS38, intake, s3 rear brakes suspension done and is a little faster that my friend s3 tune, we got the same mod the only different is the suspension.
When the rear of the Audi squats while launching..... Looks mental, great launch control but the BMW is the better car for me. #FiestaST #DicksOutForHarambe
The audi looks better than the bmw but by the sounds of it and how good this review is you are paying £40,000 for something that doesn't work properly... Sorry audi but I'd rather pay £29,995 for a bmw that looks okay sounds incredible (I don't care about it being fake) and works like a dream on the road, not hating on audi just my opinion, I'd rather have the m135i and save £10,000, who's with me on this?
Hi Chris, A few pointers.. With the RS3 its best to swtich ESP off when engaging on a track, if you do this you will notice the understear you speak off isnt so apparent (im sure its mentioned in the Audi handbook!). The next thing is, sadly Audi have put dissapointing tyres on the RS3 which is a contributing factor to your experience. A must change amongst owners is to put Michelin Pilot Super Sport which provides a significant positive effect in handling and cornering. Although I love RWD personally, a 4WD car has a edge on A - B Roads.. it simply comes down to physics!
I very much doubt it was on when he was proper giving it some. It may have been on for some of the re takes etc. Why would a driver of his abilities require the esp on as it will hold him back.
As you stated for the car guys, the n54 and n55 will hold upwards of 600hp on stock turbos (n54) turbo (n55). In stock form BMW ticks the most boxes, now modify them then you'll see that they both are phenomenal 😉. I will say the audi exterior wise looks better but with a few m parts on the m135 the tables could change 😊 Thansk for the video 📹
Personally felt frustrated when I first got the 8p rs3 on castle Combe circuit to compare it against a 8v s3 and a modified golf r All were making the same power to weight ratio and the only thing I could say about the rs3 in a positive way is that it can launch very well. And that’s it. The s3 is a similar feel to the rs3 but it’s not as frustrating to drive fast and the golf r is a much better car in every way. But if I was in the market for a fast capable car of this kind I’d get the m135i all day long. In fact I have had 3 of them myself
I don’t think either car is a hot hatch and should be classed as hyper hatches. However after a few years of owning a 135 I think it should be classed as a mini GT car. The thing is phenomenal at covering huge distances quick and easy, when you want it to it will rip your face off, but most of the time commuting to work or having to cover a few hundred motorway it’s so nice to drive.
To Audi enthusiasts in this comment session. You haven't driven both of them. Yes, i have driven it, BMW worked better for me. Yes, as you assumed i'm kind a BMW guy, but, still, BMW was much better. It has fun which audi doesn't, and Audi understeers so much. It would be great in motorway, but does it really gonna work on track or winding road? I doubt that. They could much better on this car. (I like rs6 more than m5. It sounds like angry tiger of something. And, m5 mad me disappointed. V8? I can deal with it, but it so much slower than amg or rs6. And it sounds giod but campare to amg or rs6, it not that good.) And now, recently audi put out brand new rs3. I haven't driven yet, and i'm looking forward to drive it and find out what they done.
"crickeyy understeering already!" perfectly sums up the RS3... that 5 cylinder engine is brilliant tho... same the chasis is joyless... this 5 cylinder engine plus the bmw rear wheel drive driving dynamics wud be a great package tho!
he has already answered your question in the video!! O.o do you understand what he says? if not, then it would be a pleasure for me to translate it for you...
Markus Meier It's clearly stated at the beginning of the video that he is aware that he is comparing an older RS3 to a new BMW but it's because it will be several years until the new model from out comes out in RS3 trim.
Such a good review (as ever) I wish you would do a review of the Chrysler 300 SRT which is the other car on my next car list of two (the M135i being the other). Thanks Chris.
Entertainment4U Hang on, you're the one who posted the first provocative comment, I merely responded. Still feeling sensitive from the bad verdict for the RS3?
Sam King How can that be provocative? You're the one taking the time to answer me back... I have my own verdict because I've driven both of those cars.
This should be the go-to video for any Audi RS and S driver. Yes, yes- they're quick off the line, but after that, there's not much else they bring to the party; and a professional racing driver has just attested to this. Weirdly, I'm often told that fast BMWs can't handle- by fast Audi drivers. This video puts to bed the Audi RS v BMW M debate once and for all. All that power under the Audi's bonnet is useless if, every time you want to take a corner quickly, it understeers you towards the nearest wall/ hedge. Fast BMWs will, and always have been, for the drivers amongst us. If anyone wishes to disagree, get hold of both, go to the Llanberis Pass in North Wales, and report to me which is better. There is simply no contest. Fast Audis are for traffic light jockeys as that's the only place they retain the upper hand (although I suspect a similarly powered M3 Comp in 4wd would do a better job). I will never EVER sell my BMW M.
This review led me to purchase the M135i, and I must say it's an unbelievable car, it's fast, handles amazingly and it's also practical. Contrary to Audis, BMWs feel alive.
BMW all the way! And, it doesn't matter what i think, or others like many bellow think, this is his feedback on the two cars. Hate it or love it, respect his opinion!
The most important sentence of the whole video is the last one: You buy the Audi for the looks but if you like driving, go and buy the BMW. From what I can see here in Germany, that's the (bitter?) truth.
I love these comments re which is better. I've got a brand new RS3 sitting on the drive. I can buy what I want within reason. I stopped buying BMW's years ago. I don't drive on the track, I drive on the road. I don't have delusions of being a racing driver. The RS3 is my everyday car. It's far easier to live with than any track tool. The same goes with bikes. Track tools are fun for an hour, but after a day in the saddle with your wrists killing you, the fun wears off fast.
I am not an expert on cars, like Chris, but i think he is a bit biased on the m135i. And i don't really buy the drug race. I think it's a set up. I maybe wrong of course, but i have heard ssooo many times chris praising the bmw, that he is either on the money, or, it's suspicious.
Interesting, I have an RS3 8p and my neighbour has the 135i. I use mine every day, in all weathers and is just a nice car to drive and be stuck in on my daily commute. He uses his when he can get it off our very hilly housing estate and there's no ice or snow (In northern England, theres always a chance) The 135 is better when you want to drive like a bellend, the RS, i think is better for every day. Ive put a stage 1 APR remap and a 034 motorsport rear anti roll bar and PS4S's on mine. Eradicates most of the issues mentioned here with handling. I had a Mk6 Golf R previously, which i preferred to drive with DCC suspension pack but the engine and sound of that 5 pot is spectacular and a work of art. Each to their own, would never want to own a 135 personally and prefer Audi as a brand over BMW every day of the week.
People don`t like Audi`s as they are in VAG group and most likely that car shares some parts with Skoda or Golf. If we were talking about a car for a reason price, it`s okay, but those cars are crazy-ass hothatches. On top of that, Audi is more expensive than BMW. INSANE. If it would be me to choose 2 cars, I will go for BMW. Twice.
I might simply be defending the M135i because my dad has it (the 5 door) and I drive it everyday. The OLD 1series looked horrendous. This new one (apart from the boring looking back end) it's side profile and front facia is actually very sexy. I find that it has a great stance and posture. I'm not sure why so many people think the M135i looks ugly. I can tell you though, it looks A LOT better in person than it does in videos and photos. btw, it's very fun to drive :)
I own an BMW 1 series and of course, in terms of sportiness its the best car in its class. But since I was able to drive the newest model of the Audi A3 for a few days, I have to say that its a car, that is just as nice as the BMW. While driving through the city, the car provides you an extremly calm experience. Basicly driving the Audi A3 through Berlin for a week felt much more relaxed and safe, than driving the BMW through my hometown (600k inhabitants). Same thing on the Autobahn: at 200 km/h the Audi sits just completely relaxed on the road, making absolutely 0 noise. I even found myself playing with its infotainment while doing 200 km/h, what I would never do normaly, because of safety, but in that car, you just dont feel the speed. So, while talking about the normal models, the Audi has his right to be there. You want a sporty car? Take the BMW. You want a relaxed, smooth ride? Take the Audi!
MrMrMaran They're kinda the same thing, these days. Conventionally, a hatchback has 3 doors and a station wagon has 5, so you can think of a wagon as being based on a sedan and a hatchback as being based on a coupe, both with a hatched truck instead of the tradition trunklid.
Yes Hubert, the iconic status of the original M1 means BMW will not produce another M1 model. However, here in Australia a limited edition 1 Series M Model was sold. The engine produces 250 kW and, more significantly, 500 nm of torque. Because they're a limited edition they're being resold at a high price. Fortunately I found an ECU tuner who remapped my 135i M Sport (which has firm suspension) achieving 260 kw & 500nm of torque. New dump pipes and exhaust will add 22kw and 50 nm torque.
Wonderfully biased review by a BMW fan. A simple switch of tyres so both cars are running the MPS rubber reduces the RS3's understeer by 90%. Audi got it very wrong opting for the Continental tyres.
Pleased to find this video with Chris driving my car I only bought a few months ago. Mine has been played with to just over 500hp and I feel is a nice machine, but a lot of what Chris says is so true!
Its fun to watch again these video after almost 7 years when it was realeased. 340hp in that audi at that time was absolutly crazy, but look now amg 45s 421 of them from a 4 cilinder, where this going... at this point u can see why is the audi much much better car than that m135i u only need to look at the price, used they cost more than that bmw when it was new, so this car im pretty sure that is future classic i mean its so rare and so expensive even today, and have to say even today it looks amazing. Cheers
That's not the case. Think about it, college grads with a 'bit' of money? A bit? Can this 'bit' of money get a similar bmw? And if your case is the case, they must be from wealthy family and very likely to have or had many cars before they buy Audi.
***** All living costs adjusted for you still get more money here than you would in the states. Theres still so much money left over after paying bills, of course theres traps like the $5 coffees, $30 T shirts and $25 cocktails designed to take that spare cash away from you but if you stay your impulses you could have an Audi TT with a small loan in no time.
I'M afraid, but that is not true. Every "normal" Audi is limited to "250km/h" as it will reach it anyway.So does every "S"-Audi An "RS" Audi is limited to 280km/h. An "R" is the only Audi that is not limited in velocity. That counts for every Audi that leaves the fayctory without any limit-upgrade.
This is one of the most iconic pieces of auto journalism ever recorded. It’s truly inspired so many. We thank you Chris Harris
unfortunately, the bmw can't fit a nuclear warhead in the trunk.
LOL
whats why Trump is helping bmw to promote this car in North Korea
Thats because BMW's are nuclear warheads...
For all you knobheads that was a Top Gear reference
Mel dkmeneT
Chris Harris is one of the main reasons why I bought my M135i.
And me....
And me
And me.
Does the m140i count
@@markrhoden68 yes it does!
I bought the M135i after watching this and it's bloody brilliant. It's perfectly capable of driving round town and doing the regular daily commute - something I do each day when I drive into the city to work. It's quiet, comfortable and the steering is very accurate and direct.
You put your foot down at the lights and it leave all other (normal) cars standing.
Rs3
@@mohamedouechfoune878 M140i
@@mohamedouechfoune878M135i
Mr. Harris, you are one hell of a driver BUT you are an even better commentator for such reviews. Very enjoyable at all levels. Good on you!
I had an RS3 2012 and I have the M135 with xdrive now (A must have in Sweden). You are so right Mr.Harris! The sound, quality of riding and again the sound, the symphony from 4-7k rpm is the deciding factor when choosing between these hothaches. It is addicting! I managed to get 4,4 to 100km/h (Not relevant I know). And as you say, I dont know what you want more for a car on the road.. It is more quit, more refine and modern than the RS3. Cruising on the highway i managed 8,1L/100km with the eco pro thingy and the gear just coasts as soon as it can reading the GPS information about the road, it is just high tech. The DSG on the Audi is good, but not as smooth in town as the ZF. I drove the M2 and it is mind blowing, but for everyday use the M135 is your car.. And people, stop crying about the 4WD, you can buy it with the xdrive, and it is amazing. And yes you can go sideways!
Ako Zengna How is the xdrive from bmw compared to quattro. Which awd do you prefer?
Real AWD is always better then Haldex AWD(RS3 has Haldex). I have Haldex and it is good enough but I wish I had real full time AWD like in xDrive, real Quattro, Subies and the such.
The xdrive is on another level. both are super stabil, but the xdrive is more fun, real easy to oversteer in snow (Sweden) in sport+. The Audi doesn't really want to oversteer, it just point and accelerate..
Ako Zengna I bought an m135 last week, I'm from Uppsala Sweden, it should be nice talking to you...
This is very good to know. I'm looking to buy one of those 2 cars.
After having just ordered the last of the M140i's a week before BMW stopped taking build orders, I had to come back and pay homage to this video that started it for many. I am just thankful that in 2019, I am lucky enough to taste this once in a generation gem of a bargain. Cannot wait.
sold my RS3 and bought the M140i .. im in love..
drdj69 I’m thinking of buying an Rs3 after my S4 what’s the Rs3 like to drive day to day ?
got mine 3 weeks ago! Still cant believe it
I can only assume the m140i is even better than the m135i. Apart from the obvious increase in power they probably sorted out some of the few minuses they had with the 135i
Top man.
What a loss... AWD is soo much better, downpipe headers, exhaust and tune and its overrr
Why am I not surprised at the BMW is a better driving car
because everyone has a dick up their arse when it comes to rear wheel drive
DassRoc because its a proper wheel drive, awd is acceptable also (only the permanent one) but im sorry fwd belongs in shitboxes
Simply accelerate on a small curve without breaking until the very end of the curve, then one understands why a BMW is better than an Audi.
It does not mean Audi is shit, but here are their limits..
@@szymondziedzia4468 hence why BMW has plans for it right? lmao
Jose Audi is the beast
That 3 litre straight six sound
Dtyuoiu
Tpuh
Five cylinder sounds better than an inline 6
I bought a used high spec 135i because of this review... Its bloody awsome. Very fast, sounds amazing, actually not too awful on fuel and quite comfortable. My only complaint is I wish bmw would of made it look just slightly more special than the standard 1 series. That is the only complaint though. I drove an rs3 and it was really good but the bmw just makes you smile with its straight six screaming away. Just great.
But look at the positive site of it looking similar to a regular 1series: you won’t get stopped by the cops too often. At least that’s my experience
People are forgetting the Audi is a RS product & the bmw is a sub M
+Ian Townsend ...i wonderd if I'am the only one who noticed that. I've compared these cars, before ordering the m135i xdrive. there was a massive difference of ca. 15.000 € in austria. The RS3 is good, but it feels old, heavy, hard...and isn't the right car vor every day use.
+Ian Townsend Who's "forgetting" that? Chris explained that in great detail.
Every Audi owner ;)
+t2097at Hahahaha...YUP! ;-D
t2097at either way the rs3 engine has the head of a lambo
This is what I call a review. Full of *relevant* detail and great no-b.s., to the point delivery. I can watch a review by Chris Harris and mostly feel like I just took advantage of a no-limits, 6 hour test drive. I'm thankful guys like Chris Harris and this show exist. Now if I can be rich enough to first buy all the cars I want (and modify them appropriately) and get them reviewed by this show. :-)
Great review! Good stuff for driving enthusiasts. I'm not a fan of BMWs but I can feel the pleasure he's getting from it as opposed to the 4wd machine. Also addressed the key point for anyone that loves to drive, open diff.
I was an Audi guy but after getting accustomed to bmw’s legendary In-line 6 there was no turning back. The 2 s4’s I had were phenomenal performers with the v6 twin turbo. But every seal, gasket and bushing needed replacing on either at around 130,000. We are talking like $8000 for a $11,000 car. I sold them and went Bmw n52 and frankly have had far less issues.
After a year our BMW 135M conv. Has become the favorite. Streets or freeways, this little rocketship never fails. From ramp speed to 80 with a beautiful growl I'm always amazed at being so invisible. Small and Un-noticed it's like driving around in a Vulcan Bird of Prey in Stealth Mode.
"Bird of Prey in Stealth Mode" - That is EXACTLY what it feels like :-D Keep out of sport mode and it is so quiet nobody even sees you... until you pass them.
Thing is the wheel-horsepower is probably actually greater for the BMW because of the RWD drivetrain loss vs the AWD drivetrain loss.
Great review Chris! It goes to show once again that even if a car looks better on paper, nothing can compare to how it drives, the feeling that all car lovers enjoy, fun. Straight 6 engine up front, RWD, that's the way mother nature intended. Also the BMW sounds excellent.
All I'd like to see now, is a review for the new M140i.
I know there won't be a massive difference, but I'm keen to see what improvements BMW has made.
Mostly because I'm
coming to the end of my apprenticeship, and want a nice hot hatch to celebrate, the M140i being at the top of the list.
James Wingrove did you get one pal?
This was one of the reviews which convinced me the M140i was the one for me.
I haven't looked back since I bought it, well, only to see the cars I have just gapped.
I agree with you 100%. Love my M140i
Me to love my 140 practical, fast and cool
well done Mr Harris, a damn good, hot hatch comparison.Audi RS3 has the power but BMW is a real driver's car.
Except if you watch the video, the Beemer beats it in a straight line too. Granted, the Audi is quicker to 30, but that's about it.
@@neil5242go ahead and tune that 5 cylinder and see which one has more power. RS3s are capable of reaching over 1000hp if tuned right. 5 cylinder also sounds a million times better.
I never tire of watching this road test..........loved my 135i
Audi , the king of understeering.
bmw the queen for going sideways looking for grip
@@Markanaldo yea thats a lot better than understeering, and a lot more fun
yep, just put a decent set of tyres on the front axle for the audi.
@No you Nope. You can make an oversteery car understeer, but you can't make an understeery car oversteer if your life depended on it. I wonder why racing cars (such as F1 and GT3) use RWD... hmmm, that's a bit of a conundrum eh?
@No you F1 is mid engined you fuckwit. Every other GT3 car apart from the Porsche is either front or mid engined. The AMG GT dominated the Blancpain series a while back. Are you on crack or are you just braindead? Learn the difference between RWD and rear-engined. The fact the engine is the back has nothing to do with them being faster. They're faster because the front wheels don't have to both provide thrust and turn at the same time like they do with FWD cars. Fucking muppet.
3 kinds of enthusiasts: the one who wants to be the fastest, the one who wants to look the best, and the one that loves the drive. The S3 will attract the ones who want to be the fastest in the real world/straight line, M135i for the ones that love the drive, and the one who wants to look the best will go the stance route. Personally, I'm the M135i kind.
That is why i bought the m135i :) In the corners wohoo! Pure Fun
i don't know whats wrong with you guys ?! Running around with your pink audi glasses..yes audi makes probably the best looking cars and there fast in a straight line...and yes the fast for people who don't know how to really drive, but this dude was a very good race driver. So he knows what he is speaking about. And if you really can drive and want to hit fast laps on a race track and want to have fun with the car bmw are yust the better choice !
Having owned an S3 previously i know exactly what Chris is saying, the best engine and fourwheel drive system in the world will never make up for the misery that is understeer.
The whole point of these cars is driver and involvement and having fun, understeer will ruin your experience and there is pretty much nothing which can cure that.
I watched this video years ago when it came out, and just before I bought my m135i a few weeks ago, I watched it again and if sealed the deal. What a car btw...
BMW always wins in mid-range gears. BM4Life!
I first watched this review back in early 2014 and very quickly acquired a build slot on a mineral grey M135i - still got it, longest I've ever owned a car and it still makes me smile even as a daily driver and work tool most of the time. Awesome little car and a great all rounder
Its a cool car but 5cyl is interesting
@@dragospahontu Agreed; fantastic engine in the RS3 (especially pre-PPF)
The ultimate driving machine vs the ultimate transport machine.
One is for people looking for driving pleasure the other for people looking for safe transports.
Brilliant Review!! Chris should be on top gear, a REAL enthusiast. Changed my mind completely about the Audi, it just looks nice.
Do you regret saying this?
Luuk Ska he is the best thing to happen to top gear
I am a big Audi fan but the RS3 is overrated. I would rather get the S3 or even the normal TFSI and tune it. The new one as it is already matches the straight line performance of the current RS3 so why waste all that money.
yes you are correct but you get let weight in the front. i got A3 8v 2.0t with IS38, intake, s3 rear brakes suspension done and is a little faster that my friend s3 tune, we got the same mod the only different is the suspension.
Agreed.. But the 5 pot sound is so much better than an S3
i just want the 5 cylinder turbo. Forbidden fruit in the U.S market to recently
Hey Chris, I just wanted to say thank You for your work on showing proper car tests. I'm just fan of cars and You rock!
When the rear of the Audi squats while launching..... Looks mental, great launch control but the BMW is the better car for me. #FiestaST #DicksOutForHarambe
The audi looks better than the bmw but by the sounds of it and how good this review is you are paying £40,000 for something that doesn't work properly... Sorry audi but I'd rather pay £29,995 for a bmw that looks okay sounds incredible (I don't care about it being fake) and works like a dream on the road, not hating on audi just my opinion, I'd rather have the m135i and save £10,000, who's with me on this?
I got a 16 plate M135i manual a month ago (replacing a 1.6 diesel Focus), I absolutely love it.
Hi Chris,
A few pointers.. With the RS3 its best to swtich ESP off when engaging on a track, if you do this you will notice the understear you speak off isnt so apparent (im sure its mentioned in the Audi handbook!).
The next thing is, sadly Audi have put dissapointing tyres on the RS3 which is a contributing factor to your experience. A must change amongst owners is to put Michelin Pilot Super Sport which provides a significant positive effect in handling and cornering.
Although I love RWD personally, a 4WD car has a edge on A - B Roads.. it simply comes down to physics!
Mr Harris needs no pointers from you or any of us. He tested the cars as you buy them not what you need to do to improve them.
+Ivor Problem yes but he tested it incorrectly with esp on whilst on the track
I very much doubt it was on when he was proper giving it some. It may have been on for some of the re takes etc. Why would a driver of his abilities require the esp on as it will hold him back.
As you stated for the car guys, the n54 and n55 will hold upwards of 600hp on stock turbos (n54) turbo (n55). In stock form BMW ticks the most boxes, now modify them then you'll see that they both are phenomenal 😉.
I will say the audi exterior wise looks better but with a few m parts on the m135 the tables could change 😊
Thansk for the video 📹
That chicane said it all.
But was always worried about the bmw in snow
Personally felt frustrated when I first got the 8p rs3 on castle Combe circuit to compare it against a 8v s3 and a modified golf r All were making the same power to weight ratio and the only thing I could say about the rs3 in a positive way is that it can launch very well. And that’s it. The s3 is a similar feel to the rs3 but it’s not as frustrating to drive fast and the golf r is a much better car in every way.
But if I was in the market for a fast capable car of this kind I’d get the m135i all day long. In fact I have had 3 of them myself
Great review. Fallen in love with the 1 series
I don’t think either car is a hot hatch and should be classed as hyper hatches. However after a few years of owning a 135 I think it should be classed as a mini GT car. The thing is phenomenal at covering huge distances quick and easy, when you want it to it will rip your face off, but most of the time commuting to work or having to cover a few hundred motorway it’s so nice to drive.
Very true. Can cruise around comfortably with Performance on tap when needed. Still have and love mine 👌
To Audi enthusiasts in this comment session. You haven't driven both of them. Yes, i have driven it, BMW worked better for me. Yes, as you assumed i'm kind a BMW guy, but, still, BMW was much better. It has fun which audi doesn't, and Audi understeers so much. It would be great in motorway, but does it really gonna work on track or winding road? I doubt that. They could much better on this car. (I like rs6 more than m5. It sounds like angry tiger of something. And, m5 mad me disappointed. V8? I can deal with it, but it so much slower than amg or rs6. And it sounds giod but campare to amg or rs6, it not that good.) And now, recently audi put out brand new rs3. I haven't driven yet, and i'm looking forward to drive it and find out what they done.
Sry bout grammar mistakes. I wrote this comment with my phine, i'm not get used to it yet.
BMW! thank you for listening.
"crickeyy understeering already!" perfectly sums up the RS3... that 5 cylinder engine is brilliant tho... same the chasis is joyless... this 5 cylinder engine plus the bmw rear wheel drive driving dynamics wud be a great package tho!
This guy could actually relaunch top gear and turn it into something watchable again (my opinion).
jashsdn 🔮
Errr he did...
why do you compare the old model of the audi rs3 with the NEW of the bmw 135i ?!
he has already answered your question in the video!! O.o do you understand what he says? if not, then it would be a pleasure for me to translate it for you...
ok translate pls
Markus Meier It's clearly stated at the beginning of the video that he is aware that he is comparing an older RS3 to a new BMW but it's because it will be several years until the new model from out comes out in RS3 trim.
why don't you listen?
butthurt bmw lover thats why
This was the video that made me decide to buy an m135i, against a Golf r and an a45 at the time. 10 years later and I still love it!
Such a good review (as ever) I wish you would do a review of the Chrysler 300 SRT which is the other car on my next car list of two (the M135i being the other). Thanks Chris.
The presenter is clearly a BMW lover and probably driver...
He actually owns an RS6 and an E30 rally car.
And you're clearly an Audi fanboy who can't face the truth...
Sam King Oh wow, rage much? Was just an observation... Grow up.
Entertainment4U Hang on, you're the one who posted the first provocative comment, I merely responded. Still feeling sensitive from the bad verdict for the RS3?
Sam King How can that be provocative? You're the one taking the time to answer me back... I have my own verdict because I've driven both of those cars.
This should be the go-to video for any Audi RS and S driver. Yes, yes- they're quick off the line, but after that, there's not much else they bring to the party; and a professional racing driver has just attested to this.
Weirdly, I'm often told that fast BMWs can't handle- by fast Audi drivers. This video puts to bed the Audi RS v BMW M debate once and for all. All that power under the Audi's bonnet is useless if, every time you want to take a corner quickly, it understeers you towards the nearest wall/ hedge. Fast BMWs will, and always have been, for the drivers amongst us. If anyone wishes to disagree, get hold of both, go to the Llanberis Pass in North Wales, and report to me which is better. There is simply no contest. Fast Audis are for traffic light jockeys as that's the only place they retain the upper hand (although I suspect a similarly powered M3 Comp in 4wd would do a better job). I will never EVER sell my BMW M.
Spot on. A big engine doesn't negate Audisteer.
LSD differential is a must at that price. Nevertheless, the BMW looks good.
Doesnt need one at all
it does, but it's not that expensive to install.
looks good:/
this is the ugliest
yet best hatch back on the road
I love a nice hot hatch and the M135i is now runner up to replace my GTI in the future
Whats in first place? Having a nightmare making this decision myself!!
Jan Aike 135? 135i BMW? ofc the GTI looks better than those, not an M135i though.
Golf R is currently in first place for replacing my GTI
This review led me to purchase the M135i, and I must say it's an unbelievable car, it's fast, handles amazingly and it's also practical. Contrary to Audis, BMWs feel alive.
BMW all the way! And, it doesn't matter what i think, or others like many bellow think, this is his feedback on the two cars. Hate it or love it, respect his opinion!
Yep. Guys lets all be honest, he knows more about cars than probably all of us, so he is the proper man to go to if you want all the car answers ;)
The most important sentence of the whole video is the last one:
You buy the Audi for the looks but if you like driving, go and buy the BMW.
From what I can see here in Germany, that's the (bitter?) truth.
I love these comments re which is better. I've got a brand new RS3 sitting on the drive. I can buy what I want within reason. I stopped buying BMW's years ago. I don't drive on the track, I drive on the road. I don't have delusions of being a racing driver. The RS3 is my everyday car. It's far easier to live with than any track tool. The same goes with bikes. Track tools are fun for an hour, but after a day in the saddle with your wrists killing you, the fun wears off fast.
so unbiased
Bang on Chris. The new RS3 is unstoppable, but I love the way those 1 series Mcars drift.
I was going to go test drive a 128i....than I decided to get a real car. The 135i is a beast of a little car.
The bmw sounds proper!
Great review Chris. Look forward to seeing you on Top Gear again!
I have a m135i and occasionally just come back to this video, and then pull a Jeremy Clarkson smug face
I am not an expert on cars, like Chris, but i think he is a bit biased on the m135i. And i don't really buy the drug race. I think it's a set up. I maybe wrong of course, but i have heard ssooo many times chris praising the bmw, that he is either on the money, or, it's suspicious.
Why dou think that drag race was suspicious?
Or maybe hes praising the BMW because it's actually better
Why cant You all just appreciate both cars because thy are both awesome cars from awesome car brands !!
Just watching your re-runs Chris because you aren't on /Drive this week. Re-runs better than no runs.
Interesting, I have an RS3 8p and my neighbour has the 135i. I use mine every day, in all weathers and is just a nice car to drive and be stuck in on my daily commute. He uses his when he can get it off our very hilly housing estate and there's no ice or snow (In northern England, theres always a chance) The 135 is better when you want to drive like a bellend, the RS, i think is better for every day. Ive put a stage 1 APR remap and a 034 motorsport rear anti roll bar and PS4S's on mine. Eradicates most of the issues mentioned here with handling. I had a Mk6 Golf R previously, which i preferred to drive with DCC suspension pack but the engine and sound of that 5 pot is spectacular and a work of art. Each to their own, would never want to own a 135 personally and prefer Audi as a brand over BMW every day of the week.
Great review as always Mr. Harris
Wow, that was a really great review! Thanks. :)
The launch on Quattoro Audis is pretty damn impressive though!
When your looking to buy a car. Trust in Chris for the details 👍
im slowly becoming less of an audi fan because of how boring/soul-less, heavy, understeery they are.. bmw m2 has completely won me over
People don`t like Audi`s as they are in VAG group and most likely that car shares some parts with Skoda or Golf. If we were talking about a car for a reason price, it`s okay, but those cars are crazy-ass hothatches.
On top of that, Audi is more expensive than BMW. INSANE.
If it would be me to choose 2 cars, I will go for BMW. Twice.
but then lamborgini are apart of the vw group aswell because audi bought lamborgini so audi and lamborgini also share parts
Even if the Bimmer was as expensive as that crap id choose the Bimmer, and i am sure Chris would too.
bmw for life... :)
love to see the 2015 rs3 vs 135
I might simply be defending the M135i because my dad has it (the 5 door) and I drive it everyday. The OLD 1series looked horrendous. This new one (apart from the boring looking back end) it's side profile and front facia is actually very sexy. I find that it has a great stance and posture.
I'm not sure why so many people think the M135i looks ugly. I can tell you though, it looks A LOT better in person than it does in videos and photos. btw, it's very fun to drive
:)
Imagine if this was a real M car.. it would obliterate the Audi.
although he beamer is ugly, i wouldn't say the rs3 is beautiful. the rs3 is a bit faster but for 10k less you can have a much better drivers car
I own an BMW 1 series and of course, in terms of sportiness its the best car in its class.
But since I was able to drive the newest model of the Audi A3 for a few days, I have to say that its a car, that is just as nice as the BMW.
While driving through the city, the car provides you an extremly calm experience. Basicly driving the Audi A3 through Berlin for a week felt much more relaxed and safe, than driving the BMW through my hometown (600k inhabitants). Same thing on the Autobahn: at 200 km/h the Audi sits just completely relaxed on the road, making absolutely 0 noise. I even found myself playing with its infotainment while doing 200 km/h, what I would never do normaly, because of safety, but in that car, you just dont feel the speed.
So, while talking about the normal models, the Audi has his right to be there.
You want a sporty car? Take the BMW. You want a relaxed, smooth ride? Take the Audi!
good on you Harris you just prove audi are shit track racing car. you prove bmw is more fun to drive and beats audi rs3 at top end
I don't get the audi a3/rs3, is it a hatchback or wagon?
MrMrMaran They're kinda the same thing, these days. Conventionally, a hatchback has 3 doors and a station wagon has 5, so you can think of a wagon as being based on a sedan and a hatchback as being based on a coupe, both with a hatched truck instead of the tradition trunklid.
Yes Hubert, the iconic status of the original M1 means BMW will not produce another M1 model. However, here in Australia a limited edition 1 Series M Model was sold. The engine produces 250 kW and, more significantly, 500 nm of torque. Because they're a limited edition they're being resold at a high price. Fortunately I found an ECU tuner who remapped my 135i M Sport (which has firm suspension) achieving 260 kw & 500nm of torque. New dump pipes and exhaust will add 22kw and 50 nm torque.
Wonderfully biased review by a BMW fan. A simple switch of tyres so both cars are running the MPS rubber reduces the RS3's understeer by 90%. Audi got it very wrong opting for the Continental tyres.
+Looch Mind Reader Chris harris owns an audi
+Salar Hajireza The first thing that 8P RS3 owners do is change from Continentals to MPS or F1's... It's a well known fact if you have one
A VW Golf R handles better than the Audi RS3 around a track. The Golf has better handling and steering.
same parts ..
+Anthony Rs Yeah but the golf has a shorter wheelbase and a much more forgiving chassis
The Golf R is a hidden little monster which thrives on tight to open mountainous roads...in the wet it just waves good bye..
Pleased to find this video with Chris driving my car I only bought a few months ago. Mine has been played with to just over 500hp and I feel is a nice machine, but a lot of what Chris says is so true!
M135i is not a Proper M car that world be the 1M... but its as good as ;)
M135i - Audi S3
M1 - Audi RS3
This is the old rs3
CRonaldo7Messi10PS3 and this is the old M135i
I love the old planes in the background on these videos. Is that some kind of air museum behind?
Great review!
I'll take the better handling car any day over one with a little more power... #bmw ;)
Its fun to watch again these video after almost 7 years when it was realeased. 340hp in that audi at that time was absolutly crazy, but look now amg 45s 421 of them from a 4 cilinder, where this going... at this point u can see why is the audi much much better car than that m135i u only need to look at the price, used they cost more than that bmw when it was new, so this car im pretty sure that is future classic i mean its so rare and so expensive even today, and have to say even today it looks amazing. Cheers
drag race starts at 16:27
Audis are driven by ostentatious college grads with a bit of money and no real knowledge of cars. At least thats the case in Australia.
That's not the case. Think about it, college grads with a 'bit' of money? A bit? Can this 'bit' of money get a similar bmw? And if your case is the case, they must be from wealthy family and very likely to have or had many cars before they buy Audi.
Ziyao Wen The pay is good here. Most people can save $60k from a normal job. Makes it all the more easier with a degree and your first office job.
***** All living costs adjusted for you still get more money here than you would in the states. Theres still so much money left over after paying bills, of course theres traps like the $5 coffees, $30 T shirts and $25 cocktails designed to take that spare cash away from you but if you stay your impulses you could have an Audi TT with a small loan in no time.
+Disinf3ctant $60k from a normal job? Seriously? I work about 60hrs a week and went home with a tad over 50k after tax. Snap out of it.
IDriveAHeap OfSH1T No no no no, I didn't say ear 60k, I said save. You can afford this car.
Chris, i love all your reviews. COuld listen to your reviews all day man. Good work!
ill take both please
TRADING MY AUDI TT IN FOR THE BMW 135 I
+kion jub Noo don't be silly... I own a 09 Audi TT and I am getting a TTRS in the next 2 years hahaha or just TTS and get that bad boy remap!!!
I also came from an audi tt 2011 s line 2.0 to the m135i. The m135i drives like the audi tt looks haha. M135i is like driving a real sports car 😎
I think it was already decided that the BMW was the winner before the comparison even began. Good job.
the audi looks better, is faster around the track and faster 1/4 mile.this is biased.
M135i is faster than RS3 because 155MPH limiter on the latter.
*****
But Audi started to gain again at higher speeds
I'M afraid, but that is not true.
Every "normal" Audi is limited to "250km/h" as it will reach it anyway.So does every "S"-Audi
An "RS" Audi is limited to 280km/h.
An "R" is the only Audi that is not limited in velocity.
That counts for every Audi that leaves the fayctory without any limit-upgrade.
to the people saying he is biased to BMW
He isn't biased. In this instance, the BMW is simply the better drivers car......