R32 v s3.

[zel05]

Hey guys.

Just wanted to draw on the experiences and knowledge of those that have driven and/or owned these cars.

I'm currently looking at selling my 07 147turbo Jetta so something a little more sporty, compact and comfortable.

Leading the fight is an 8p s3 which must be fitted with recaros. I've missed out last week on a perfect example...but these should be found between the 25-30k mark.

As a point of comparison...I'm also interested in an 07-08 r32. Now my preference is the 2 door version...there is 1 in Vic even with recaros optioned...although I'm not ready to loom at private sales just yet.

Just chasing some experiences and thoughts. I appreciate that they would both drive very differently...my head says r32 for the torque...but it will basically be my current car with a different engine. The s3 is a complete package too...and I really like the look of it. The 32 looks OK...but its not s3 special in my eyes...

Cheers

[team_v]

R32 if you want fun linear acceleration.
S3 if you want the ability to bolt on mods and go like the clappers.

[zel05]

Do vw supply recaros...or are there supply out in the big wide world if a 32 was found with stock seats. Its one of my sticking points unfortunately. Just seems people selling haven't got all the options I want ticked...lol

[team_v]

The closest would be Recaro Sportster CS i believe but you are looking at about 5k for the set of fronts.
If you asked VW Aus Parts you would likely be looking at 8-10k.

[zel05]

So find one with them optioned in...got it.

[zel05]

So thinking about it all a little more...I think I'm leaning a lot towards the 32.

Just as a heads up for me while I'm looking now...is there anything I need to take special notice of? I guess some of the 'must haves' for the car will be 3 door, recaros, dsg.

I've noticed a lot of 06 models around...are there any inherent problems I should be aware of? Dsg etc? How many ks is too many? Any advice would be fantastic!

[team_v]

Make sure you test the DSG as they were one of the first cars to get it from memory.

[Ramee]

Make sure you test the DSG as they were one of the first cars to get it from memory.

Yeah, some of them have DSG issues (mechatronics) so make sure to test drive in each gear using pedal shifts up and down. Also better to check it with a VW specialist too.

And if you don't mind keep an eye on these pages as well
VR6 Turbo Kits | HPA Motorsports, Inc.
MK5 R32 Turbo Kits: CTS Turbo | Online Store

[zel05]

Oh man don't tempt me! Although I have always been partial to the old supercharger

So by testing the DSG your essentially using the manual mode and checking that everything shifts and feels right? I have dsg on my jetta now and everything is always fairly smooth and consistent... I guess anything that deviates from that is a problem...

[team_v]

Test the dsg by using it in situations where it may cause it to slip such as:
- hill starts
- accelerating through an intersection from a stop
- reversing

This will determine if it can shift okay and not leave you stranded with the wrong gear or a false neutral when you need to be safe and moving.