Popping with gear change

[Scotmark]

Hi everyone I have a question regarding the s3 models and looking for some guidance...my dad has a 66 plate s3 and while gear changing it gives off a lovely popping noise...I was looking at getting a newer model than the 66 plate but heard that there quieter and don’t give off that nice popping noise and just a lot quieter drive in general...can anyone let me know if this is genuinely the case and also what age does the the last year of the better sounding s3 ? Thanks in advance 

[Steve Q]

My advice would be to test drive and see. Also don't forget if you get a newer model you can always fit a stainless steel sports exhaust to improve the engine note 👍 

Cheers

Steve