The chassis code of the first-generation Audi A3 was 8L.
Audi announced the first-generation A3, internally designated Typ 8L, in June 1995. The car reached European showrooms in September 1996, returning Audi to the small-car market after the Audi 50 ended in 1978.
The A3 8L used Volkswagen Group’s PQ34 platform, closely related to the Volkswagen Golf Mk4. It launched as a three-door hatchback, while a five-door version joined the range in 1999. Audi also used the platform for the performance-focused S3.
A common mix-up is confusing 8L with the later A3 generations: 8P identifies the second generation, 8V the third, and 8Y the fourth. The original 8L was replaced in Europe in 2003, although Brazilian production continued until 2006.