Nice car but its biggest problem is the existence of the BMW 1M. If I had 40k to spend on a car like this Audi would not be getting my money.
I just don't get why people are so intent on comparing the M1 with the RS3! The RS3 is a 5 door hatchback with more room than my R32 and as Clarkson said, the M1 isn't a coupe it's a saloon - except it isn't even that. The only comparison is that they cost around the same, are about as fast, and were announced at around the same time. If you want a 2 door car that makes you look like a hairdresser but goes nowhere when the white stuff hits the ground (like my 330 touring last December) then by all means choose the Beemer. If you want the space, style, speed, grip and subtlety of a good looking hatch with a fantastic DSG box you'll choose the Audi - or not. I ordered one as soon as the order books were open just to get that sublime 5 pot engine. But then I woke up and ordered a proper car due September. A Golf R
And now we come to the issue of cost - everyone also seems horrified that the RS3 costs £40k but add a few bits to the Golf R in 5 door DSG form as I've done and the bill is over £40k!