Real world difference between an R36 and current model Passat V6 FSI?

[satz]

hi all

I've noticed that the current Passat V6 FSI has the same engine that the previous R36 had. Was wondering whether the Haldex diff and the DSG gearbox are also exactly the same?

I'm guessing (without having driven the new V6), that the suspension would be a lot softer than on the R36.

For those who have driven the two, is the current V6 as responsive at all revs like the R36 is? And does the engine/exhaust sound the same, or is more muted?


thanks

S

[booba]

No idea on your questions however I love the responsiveness, suspension, and sound that it makes. sometimes I will roll all windows down and open the roof then give it a blast

current 2013 model v6

[Riker]

Hmmm, I drove a R36 in mid 2010 so i'll have a go...

* From my understanding the haldex & DSG are the same, possibly haldex set up a little differently in the R36. It is reasonable to expect that improvements could have been made in the B7...
* The B7's have 3 point udjustable suspension comfort, neutral, sport. In sport mode which also increases steering weight, it would be almost on par with the R36.
* From memory the R36 was geared a little differently but ultimately both the R36 & B7's engines are the same beast & do exactly the same thing in the go bloody great department.
* The R36 doesn't have as much sound deadening in the exhaust as the b7's do so does sound a little more visceral & louder, however the B7's engine note I have found sounds a little deeper & going through a tunnel or parked in your garage it is quite entertaining listening to it purrrrrrr or grrrrrrrr.......

[MJW]

The gearing is higher I think in the R36. The suspension is definitely stiffer in the R36 (compared to the B7 in sport mode IMO), B7 definitely quieter for road noise & exhaust & better options. I think the R36 looks great but the B7 feels better.

[R36er]

Seeing as no-one with an R36 has responded yet - I thought I would.

I prefer a sportier ride - so that is where the R36 comes into its own. As mentioned - the suspension is firmer allowing for better handling. The car is also lower (25mm or 15mm i think) than the V6 FSI so it has that nice stance. The exhaust is a bit louder as well - but casually driving around I doubt you would notice much difference.

But by far the best features of the R36 (apart from the way it looks) are the seats and steering wheel. The seats are nice bucket seats with large pneumatic bolsters which really hug you in the corners and are actually quite comfortable. The steering wheel is nice and thick too with an almost flat bottom which again is great for a dynamic drive.

So I guess with this in mind you could say that the R36 is just set up for a more sporty experience (lower, firmer, louder, sports seats and steering wheel).

[MJW]

So I guess with this in mind you could say that the R36 is just set up for a more sporty experience (lower, firmer, louder, sports seats and steering wheel).

Summed it up perfectly!!

[R36 DSG]

The gearing is higher I think in the R36. The suspension is definitely stiffer in the R36 (compared to the B7 in sport mode IMO), B7 definitely quieter for road noise & exhaust & better options. I think the R36 looks great but the B7 feels better.

I think you'll find the gearing is identical except for 6th which is shorter in the R36. Not good for economy but will make the R36 slightly more responsive in top gear

[Lance B]

I had 2 x R36's and now the B7 V6. Interestingly, I think my B7 is just a tad louder from in the cabin, than the R36, which thought was too quiet!! I actually like the muted burble from the current B7 over my over-quiet R36.

Ultimately, the R36 was a tad more sporty, but the B7 is a more pleasing day to day driver, a tad softer, but still with a very sporty feel. Don't have to worry about scraping the front skirt and just seems to go about things with a minimum of fuss.

The R36 has higher final drive ratio, ie in all gears it revs higher at the same kmh. In 6th, it is doing about 52kmh per 1000rpm, whereas the R36 was about 42 kmh/1000rpm, from memory.

[satz]

I read in some online review that the current model V6 FSI highline had lowered suspension, compared to the 118 and 125. However I looked at the brochure and the overall height is the same for all 3 models.

I wish it had lowered suspension as that would bring it even 'closer' to the old R36

[pologti18t]

You can get the SPorts Pack

Vicenza 18x8" alloy wheels with 235/45R18 self-sealing mobility tyres and matching spare wheel and tyre
Multi-Function leather steering wheel with gearshift paddles
Front sport seats with Nappa leather appointed upholstery
Dark tinted rear side and rear window glass, 65% light absorbing