SnailPower
Autocross Newbie
Yes those factors you mentioned are subjective. The R is part time AWD not full time. The Haldex system isn't the greatest AWD, especially for track use.
The fact that the R is built in Germany? My MK6 is built in Germany, its not perfect I have had issues, so I doubt the Mexico built cars are much better or worse.
The R is nice, but honestly folks, new for new a MK7 GTI SPort would be the best option to me IF I wanted to get a new VW. The R, though quicker in some regards for the most part, isn't the best buy. Too many others available in the same price point.
The R does have a nice interior, yes but I dont care about that, I want a good platform to build from with as little issues as possible. I was spoiled in the Evo world I guess. Never had any issues at all. Nothing mechanical anyway. Apples to oranges though in comparison IMO.
My GTI is my first German car. There is one other in the family a 1960 Bug Convertible that has been in the family for over 50+ years. Ironically that 60 bug has been in the shop less than my car has been:thumbup:
Things are different now of course, I am just saying, I love the GTI for what it is, a very nice car with good performance, good build quality and decent MPG's. It may be a great car modded, or my worst nightmare modded :23: and I guess that is the risk, or chance you take with any build. I know this.
You guys are just braver than I am, or just love the brand more than I do? Or just love your car more than I do? Not sure. I am just not doing anything till I decide.
I have put like 500 miles on my GTI in the last 10 months. It just sits. What a shame :yikes:
Jeff
Except you are in a better position than a higher percentage on this forum that probably do not have their car paid off and are modding it. The risk is greater where an unexpected repair might arise along with that monthly payment that is always expected to fly.
Having it paid off gives you a tad more freedom with the money to take some more chances/risks with modding. Where before you might be dropping $500 a month for the monthly payment, now you might drop $500 or less one month on an unexpected repair that came up.
I'll tell you, if you are coming from Evo world, you won't get the same power feeling really going Stg1 or 2 even, you will require a K04. If you aren't looking for just nutty power, Stg1 or 2 might be enough to quench your thirst. I had APR Stage 1 for a bit more than a year with absolutely no additional hardware... not even an intake. I was happy with it.
Then APR goes an releases new files that increase the torque over 300 even with Stage1 but requires the intake. I'm like, well crap, if the intake is in, I only need a DP and I can switch to the Stg2 file which also had an impressive boost, with the torque nearly up to 350. I think Stg2 was the ultimately the last straw of what my stock turbo was able to handle and here I am with a shot turbo and K04, but the year that I had Stg2 prior to the turbo going, it was fun. Definitely enjoyable on the highway. Just don't get an overly loud exhaust because it isn't worth that type of attention. Your just about in the high 13s with Stg2.