Audi A3 Sportback: The Nothelle Spatha 210

Fourtitude's David Corfield had the chance to test drive the Nothelle Spatha 210, a tuned version of the Audi A3 Sportback by Nothelle.

For starters, he’s called it the ‘Spatha 210’, the numbers referring to the new power output. The word itself comes from ancient Rome, describing a short sword used by Gladiators in hand to hand combat.

It certainly gave me a sharp prod, thanks to Nothelle upping the size of the turbocharger and increasing the boost pressure. The car’s 2.0TDI engine has been given a new personality, with 154 kW (210PS) and 465 Nm of torque available right across the rev range. The result is one diesel that sure knows how to move.

Prising my back off the seat after that initial surge of acceleration I quickly settled into my drive, noting how sure-footed the car felt around the Hockenheimring’s twisty perimeter roads.

Walking around the car after my drive (the smell of hot brake pads permeating the German air, I might add…) I can’t help be impressed by the way Nothelle has added a serious attitude to this car’s look. The wider fenders have beefed up the car’s stance immeasurably and are sure to be copied by other stylists in time while side skirts and a striking front spoiler and splitter help to not only improve airflow into the engine, but also redefine this car’s intent. A small lip on the trunk further reminds passers by that this is no ordinary A3. All these subtle styling tweaks, in my opinion, really work. They help elevate this car from suburban hatch to something you’d be happy taking to a show.

If you bring $44,300, you can also drive one.

Source: Fourtitude

Labels: Audi