Re: Jetta GLX Exhaust: Which one to get?

[ANDREW_ATWELL@HP-PaloAlto-om20.om.hp.com]

     I concer.
     andy


______________________________ Reply Separator _________________________________
Subject: Jetta GLX Exhaust:  Which one to get?
Author:  Non-HP-owner-jettaglx (owner-jettaglx@igtc.com) at HP-PaloAlto,mimegw6
Date:    6/6/97 1:22 PM


A few words about exhaust and other engine related mods...
     
I think everyone on this list that has done engine mods, plus those that 
have been on the GTI list for a while will concur: it is very difficult to 
wring much performance out of the VR6 motor. ESPECIALLY on a cost to 
benefit ratio.
     
With the exception of a chip modification and a K&N filter, there is little 
you can do to improve the performance of your VR6 motor inexpensively. Even 
mods like exhaust, schrick VSR intake, headers, cams, etc. don't give BIG 
improvements to go along with their BIG price tags. I think VW really did 
what they could to wring the performance out of this mill. Sure, you can add 
a few things to make it SOUND cooler, and it may subjectively "feel" 
quicker, but chances are that you won't see big HP and/or Torque 
improvements.
     
Suspensions mods are another thing completely. You will notice immediate 
improvements in ride, handling, looks, etc. This is where your hard earned 
money will see more return on your investment.
     
The best thing you can do is try and drive someones car that has the mods 
you are thinking of doing and judge for yourself. When Chris Collier 
stopped here in Chicago to visit we were all racing around in our cars and 
out of the six of us in various GLX's and GTI's (some heavily modded, some 
stock), NO one car was dramatically faster than the others. Some handled 
substantially better than others, but on a straight line, none were 
tremendously quicker.
     
I just wanted to pass this experience along if anyone is considering mods.
     
     
Cheers!
     
- -jamie
     
____________________________________________________________________ 
jamie vondruska                              http://www.vwvortex.com 
jamie@obs.net                                    Oak Brook, Illinois
     
'95 Red Jetta GLX                          "Go big or stay home"  :)