answer:Similar engine, but not the same engine; the GTI has at least 10HP over the A3. The GTI is also better handling, though not quite as comfy; there is a balance between smooth ride and sporty grip and the two cars diverge there. If it were me, I would actually go for a slightly used Golf R32 (hard because they are rare) or wait a year and go for the Golf R but I have a weakness for turbocharged AWD hot hatches :D Seriously though, I think AWD handling, a nice interior , more power, and being just far enough off the beaten path to turn heads without actually being weird are worth a little extra. Though I would probably copy the skull I have on my hood just because I gotta be me.