Potential New Owner

[Shixter]

Hey all,

New user from Sydney, NSW here.. I've pretty much come along in hopes of some solid advice, feedback and potentially a chance to solidify my choice to invest in an MK4, Specifically an Mk4 R32.

So a little about myself, I have primarily been an Evo or WRX owner.. Ever since i drove my first AWD car i absolutely fell in love. The sense of ease and being able to tackle anything it's thrown at, and admittedly to make up for any minor driver errors i may have is just sensational. Now that being said, I have grown tired of the same old monotony and am seeking something new, refreshing and refined to use as both a daily and weekend driver. This has brought my search to the MK4 Golf R32.

I chose the Golf because it appealed to me visually, most importantly it was AWD and it just stuck out as a car that i couldn't believe i had never considered prior to this point, and for that i am ashamed. This, Didnt come without questions though and that is where i hope you guys could provide some answers.


Here we go: (Apologies if these have been asked before, I have spent quite some time researching and am still confused of sorts)


1. The AWD system

How would you say this compares to say the Evo or even the WRX. I have heard that this is a front biased AWD 4MATIC system, and can be front heavy through corners and suffer from understeer. Is it still a true AWD or merely a FWD car with power occasionally being put to the rear. IE: Will it take the same punishment and attacks being thrown at it as the afforementioned cars. I obviously dont expect to go rallying or do supreme level track days, However the occasional spirited canyon run and light track day on the weekends would be appreciated with the wife.I will of course be looking into bracing, coilovers, and fixing the suspension for a more refined yet comfortable and usable setup.


2. Power

Yes, The elusive 'P' word that surely comes into play on every car forum in existence.

Now, Again i obviously don't expect to be lightning, Especially being an NA vehicle.. However i have heard only great and wonderous things of the VR6 3.2l motor sitting within this beast. How would owners and users rate this car as far as power? How does it compare to other NA vehicles (Mind you it has been some years since i even drove something NA)
- Is it sufficient on the highway for long drives, and overtaking on the motorways?
- Does it give you an inspiring feeling when planting your foot down to hear the exhaust purr?
- Exact power figures, I was unable to confirm this online anywhere. What are the actual power and torque figures of the car at the wheels (in kws)

- Modification and potential. Short of Turbocharging or Supercharging this vehicle (Which i do not wish to do, As it would void my choice in this car) What are common mods to the car to awaken the inner beast and what are reasonable and expected power figures once mods have been done? (I am willing to go as far as exhausts, intakes, tuning, cams and other mild work)

Comparison, My favorite car.. Although not my fastest by far was a 1999 Subaru Impreza (GC. How would you compare the speed, power and general relativity between the two?


3. Reliability

I think this speaks for itself, Are there any looming issues or things to lookout for with these specific models?
I think that sums up my questions for now, and i apologize for the long and drawn out thread. Any and all information is greatly appreciated.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Kindly
~Shixter

[Back Door Shenanigans.]

These are my opinions from owning a 4mo Bora (practically same car just 2.8 instead of 3.2)

1. The AWD system
I can't say how it would compare to the WRX or EVO systems never driven one of them. You are correct in that its is a front wheel drive based system. It uses a clutched based center differential (haldex) that will engage depending on if the front wheels are slipping and some other factors. I guess the argument is this reduces wear/ improves fuel economy when driving down the highway.

If you're seriously keen there are plenty of aftermarket controllers avaible for the haldex unit that will turn it into a practically 50/50 split. See HPA or United motorsports, VWVortex.com - United motorsport performance haldex software. I had mine done and whilst i've only tried it for three days it does feel insanely better.

2. Power
Rated power: 177kw (237hp) @ 6250rpm , 320Nm torque @ 2800rpm

Since its coupled with a short ratio 6 speed you should never find it lacking power (although could be different if you've been driving high powered cars). They certainly wont struggle to overtake or keep up with some other sports vehicles. Best way to find out is to drive one. The exhaust has a flapper valve but the note from the VR6 IMHO can be one of the bests exhaust sounds (i may be biased as i made my own exhaust)

For modifications it may be worth taking a good look at some build threads at VWvortex.com. I don't think there is that much you can do cheaply to get good power gains apart from the usual cams and tune. Apart from you saying you don't want to turbo/supercharge these engines are good for around 600hp on stock internals.

3. Reliability

I wouldn't say there is much wrong with the cars as long as they are properly maintained (like most cars). There are a few small issues with coolant sensors, door switches and possibly crack pipes but nothing to major. I've only been stranded in my car due to an alternator/battery and all the other times are my stupid fault.

I think the best thing would to be to have a test drive of one and see how it goes. Only you will know if you like it or not.

Hope thats some helpful information. Have a look around plenty of info on these cars specially over at vwvortex
R32 Mk4 Buyers guide - Tutorials and Guides - R32OC | VW Golf R32, Golf R and other .:R Vehicle Owners Club.

[Shixter]

Appreciate the first response, Has definitely answered some questions for me. That Buyers Guide really was amazing too for when i go to look at a few.

How much did the Haldex upgrade/remap cost you if you don't mind me asking?

If i did buy an R32, I think first thing i would do is take it in to get a full service, check over and probably a Haldex upgrade, But it really depends what other opinions and comparisons i get from others.

[Shixter]

Also, What kind of fuel economy are people getting from their MK4s?

[Back Door Shenanigans.]

The haldex upgrade cost me including shipping back roughly $750usd (i think roughly $1100 due to our crappy dollar). Not cheap but its cheaper and easier than finding a blue/orange controller. Only issue for you would be you need to take the controller out and send it to them. I wouldn't do it as a first thing just something to note as there are other options.

As for fuel economy. I was getting 10-12l/100km before and i think the r32 is similar.