The AUDI A3 (1996-03) 5DR HATCHBACK 1.9 TDI 100 AUTO5 is a compact five-door premium hatchback, offering a practical alternative to mainstream family cars with an upmarket feel. In the UK market, it bridges small runabouts and larger hatchbacks, pairing manageable dimensions with useful passenger access. The diesel engine and automatic gearbox suit commuting and longer trips, while five doors help with passengers and shopping. It may suit couples, small families or drivers wanting an older premium car. Compared with rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf, the A3 is known for a cabin and refined feel, without losing everyday practicality. mycarcheck.com has only one recorded lookup for this model, so its figures are a small-sample guide, not a market-wide picture: the average private-sale value is £500, recorded mileage 97,000 miles and four previous keepers. That makes individual condition and history especially important when comparing this AUDI A3 diesel hatchback with cars.