Motoren Technik Mayer GmbH from Wettstetten, Germany, laid their hands on the new referee within the sport compact car arena. The Audi S3 creates great competition within its own corporation to Golf GTI and R32 as well the bavarian colleagues BMW with the mighty 130i. Through the mtm-provided components for motor, breaks, exhaust system and suspension, they have distanced themselves even more from their competitors raising the S3 to an uncompromising racer!
Tag: GTI
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MTM Audi S3
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Volkswagen Rabbit Thunder Bunny
The story began back in the early ‘80s, with a man named Bill Neumann. Bill founded the California based tuning firm Automotive Performance Systems (APS). He was frustrated with the fact that Volkswagen’s hot hatchback GTI had been sold in Germany since 1976, but hadn’t yet come to America. Bill had driven the GTI in Europe on several of his parts-searching trips, and he was convinced it would be a big hit in America. So he sent letters to the factory. He wrote to enthusiast magazines and lobbied Volkswagen dealers for support. Then, he put together the proof that a Rabbit-based performance car was capable of generating both stunning performance numbers and lots of attention from the American automotive press corp.
Thus was born the original Thunder Bunny.
The APS-modified Rabbit was delivered to Motor Trend magazine late in 1981. Even though its staff was use to driving the best cars in the world, they were blown away by the little Volkswagen hatchback. As it was written in the March 1982 issue: “The little white wonder packs its own kind of lightning-quick rabbit punch — one that’s guaranteed to kayo unsuspecting boulevard bullies.” And when Road & Track magazine got its hands on the car, it reported a zero to 60-mph run in the low seven-second range and slalom times that at the time had been bettered only by the Ferrari 512 Boxer, Lamborghini Countach and Renault R5 Turbo. Exalted company, indeed.
Bill’s frustration ceased in the fall of 1982 when the GTI finally came to America, but by then Thunder Bunny had done its job. It put Neuspeed, the APS-trademarked line of parts and accessories, on the map. It also helped launch a vital North American community of specialists in watercooled Volkswagen performance. Modifying Volkswagens, of course, was not new in America — the Beetle had spawned a huge following of enthusiasts — but the new generation of Volkswagen cars hadn’t sparked much interest in the go-fast crowd before the early ‘80s.
Neuspeed continues to be a leading force among the world’s Volkswagen tuners, and it has never stopped building special projects. The latest is also called Thunder Bunny, and it was built in commemoration of Neuspeed’s quantum leap forward all those years ago with the original rabid Rabbit. Designed in collaboration with Derek Jenkins, Chief Designer at the Volkswagen Design Center California located in Santa Monica, the new Thunder Bunny is an updated, thoroughly modern version of the original, and it debuts alongside the Concept R GTI on the Volkswagen stand at the 2006 SEMA Show.
Today’s Thunder Bunny is a blend of subtle design massaging and tuning technology, built to show how a comfortable daily driver can also provide an exciting motoring experience. Creating the thunderous noise from under the hood is a newly developed turbocharger system, designed by Neuspeed especially for Volkswagen’s 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine. The high quality installation includes a modified intake manifold, Garrett ball-bearing turbocharger and air-to-air intercooler. A stainless exhaust and specially baffled aluminum oil pan were also sourced from APS for optimum flow and cooling. Boost is restricted to a maximum of seven lbs. in this Stage 1 kit, but it still produces 225 horsepower, 75 more than the stock 2.5 L, and a hefty dose of low-end torque. A performance clutch and Quaife differential were added to the powertrain for durability and a more efficient delivery of power to the front wheels.
Thunder Bunny’s gleaming candy white exterior is made distinctive by several design studio touches. The concept’s body kit includes a larger central grille and a more muscular rear valance framing a twin R32-style exhaust from Neuspeed. Like the R GTI, Thunder Bunny’s paint was overlaid with graphics Jenkins calls “topographical” in pearl silver. They were meant to evoke the contours of the car’s geography or waves of air that flow over the surfaces. However they are interpreted, the pearl silver graphics make a unique visual statement as they appear to blink on and off in the changing angles of the sun.
Like the original Thunder Bunny, the forged alloy “street” wheels are painted gold. In 19×8-inch sizing, they’re wrapped with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 235/35-19 tires. Similar sized multi-spoked forged alloys were sourced from Neuspeed’s RS line of wheels for track use. Both sets are lightweight, in keeping with the core GTI quality of nimble handling. The front brakes are 328mm two-piece floating cross-drilled discs from Brembo, gripped by bunny-bedecked Brembo four-piston brake calipers. That’s right, bunnies. A veritable warren of Thunder Bunny logos dash to and fro across the surface of the white-painted caliper. At the rear, 310mm disc brakes are fitted.
Handling prowess comes from a suspension fitted with a Bilstein coil-over shock system and APS/Neuspeed sways bars, measuring 25mm front and rear. The suspension system is adjustable for both ride height and for shock stiffness, giving the new Thunder Bunny a dual character, suitable for the street or the track. A Neuspeed short-shift kit and custom spherical aluminum shift knob, created in the design studio, put the driver in closer touch with the manual transmission. A stock GTI steering wheel was recovered in alcantara to go along with the upgraded upholstery and trim.
Stock GTI seats were recovered in black and white checkered tweed that echoes styling trends from the early ‘80s, and the striking fabric is elegantly framed by surrounding black leather with white stitching. The color scheme is perfectly complemented by the white carbon-fiber interior trim provided by OSIR, experts in hand-laid composites and also major contributors to the design studio’s Concept R GTI.
All those years ago, Bill Neumann asked a simple question. Volkswagen responded with the GTI, while Neuspeed became a leader in Volkswagen tuner circles…why a new Thunder Bunny? Think of it as a beautifully crafted response to another question, “What happens when you give a modern Rabbit to one of the original water-cooled Volkswagen tuners?”
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Volkswagen Polo GTI Cup Edition
A racing car feel, but licensed for the road: the Polo GTI “Cup Edition” brings the look of the junior race series Polo to the road. In the ADAC Volkswagen Polo Cup talented young drivers take it to the race circuits with 150 PS. The turbo-charged Polo GTI “Cup Edition” is more than a match for that – its 180 PS make it the most powerful production Polo of all time.
Even the 110 kW (150 PS) standard specification Polo GTI is one of the fastest small compacts. Just a few months after its launch the designers and development engineers at Volkswagen Individual have gone one further both technically and optically.
The turbocharged five-valve four-cylinder engine has had its performance boosted to produce 132 kW (180 PS) from 1.8 litres and a maximum torque of 235 newton metres, already available at 2000 rpm. That puts the Polo GTI at the top of its segment – and makes it a dynamic thrill to drive. Not surprising with a power-weight ratio of just 6.6 kilograms per PS!
This engine propels the fastest Polo of all time to a maximum speed of 225 km/h and the “Cup Edition” accelerates from a zero to 100 km/h in only 7.5 seconds.
The standard Polo GTI is already distinguishable by its looks as an emphatically muscular version, but the striking design of the “Cup Edition” goes one better: roof spoiler designed by Volkswagen Individual, front and rear skirts taken virtually straight from the ADAC Polo Cup racing car and conspicuous side sills. The “Cup Edition” lettering on the tailgate provides the conclusive evidence of it racing pedigree.
Behind the large 7.5 J x 17-inch alloys which have the “Aristo” four-spoke design, there are uprated brakes with red calipers. Together with the wide 205/40 ZR 17 tyres they provide sports car braking performance. The typical GTI interior with luxury “Interlagos” sports seats remains the same as does the extensive safety package with ESP as standard.
The Polo GTI Cup Edition is available to order now as a two or four door version in the finishes Metallic Reflex Silver, Flash Red and Black Magic Pearl Effect starting from 22 425 euros.
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VW Golf GTI Edition 30
Volkswagen today introduced the Golf GTI Edition 30, a new study to mark the 30th anniversary of the GTI at the Golf Record Day in the Veltins Arena in Schalke, Gelsenkirchen in front of an audience of thousands of Golf drivers from throughout Europe.With a powerful 230 PS (169 kW) 2.0 litre turbo FSI engine, the Edition 30 study is closely related to the production model and responds to the wishes of GTI enthusiasts. The options package, a profile of desired equipment, is a reaction to the numerous wishes from customers. (more…) -
VW CrossTouran
Right before the turn of the year Volkswagen is presenting another member of the “Cross” family at the 30th Bologna Motor Show. The CrossTouran. After the start of the CrossPolo and the CrossGolf the crossover model of the successful compact van now complements the range of options. The strikingly styled, front-wheel drive Touran appears as a practical and lifestyle-oriented all-round talent. The new CrossTouran meets the demands for driving fun, a high level of product quality and an attractive price-performance ratio. For the European market launch in Spring 2007 the CrossTouran will be available with three gasoline-powered engines and three TDIs with output ranging from 75 (102 hp) to 125 kW (170 hp). The 125 kW (170 hp) TSI Twincharger with standard DSG is certainly a highlight.
EXTERIOR
Robust bumpers, wheel arches and side trim and more ground clearance
On the exterior numerous modifications distinguish the CrossTouran from the classical Touran design. The interplay of all body elements visible from the outside is particularly noticeable. The silver anodized roof railing with black mount harmonizes with the “matte chrome” look of the new front spoiler. The central air inlet in the front spoiler was also given a border in “matte chrome” look. All other body features of the all-around protection (bumper lower sections, side running boards, wheel arches, side protective trim) consist of robust, high-quality black-grained carbon fiber. The CrossTouran has lettering directly above the side trims. The wing mirror casings and the hatchback handle are painted to match the body color. All of this bestows it a completely independent character.
Fresh body colors available for the CrossTouran provide a harmonious contrast to the applications. The color palette ranges from “Candy White” to “Deep Black”. The color “Red Rock” in particular underscores the unique character of the CrossTouran: It is a flexible all-rounder that conceptually shows true can-do qualities and at the same time makes a very positive statement about life.
One look at the silhouette also distinguishes the CrossTouran as a unique model. The mixed tire arrangement with 6.5-inch wide and 17-inch diameter alloy wheels on 215/50 tires in front and, in particular, the 8-inch wide alloy wheels on 235/45 tires in back underscore the road holding of the CrossTouran and competently fill out the wheel arches enclosed by the robust extensions. The extensions merge with the side running boards, which extend up into the doors and give the car an extremely solid and powerful character.
In order to gain the extra 12 millimeters of ground clearance the CrossTouran was equipped with a modified version of the rough-track chassis that is optional for this series: it also includes a longer suspension system. The silver anodized roof railing with black mount was however not included as a component of standard equipment for visual reasons only. It is in fact a classic way to anchor the mounting system and roof boxes. The maximum permissible load is 100 kilograms.
“Cross” is a unique product brand like “GTI” or “R”
The name “Cross” represents an independent product brand like “GTI” or “R” with a specific design as well as an equipment range specially developed for the CrossTouran. Features include the “Climatic” air-conditioning system, power windows in the front and back as well as height-adjustable comfort seats with lumbar support in front.
INTERIOR / LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT
A colorful design specially developed for the CrossTouran, and great functionality make everyday driving easier
With its functional design and especially with the “Orange/Grey” interior colors, the inside of the CrossTouran imparts a youthful and pleasant atmosphere. In particular, in conjunction with the exterior “Red Rock” color this orange-grey combination has a special charm. For those who prefer to be a bit less ostentatious the “Latte Macchiato” color scheme is the fitting counterpart.
The matching cover fabrics (Design: “Eclypt Elon”) are not only used in the comfort seats in front and the back seats, but also in the door linings. The honeycomb structure incorporated into the seat flanks and upper rear part is something the observer notices right away. The seams of the three-spoke steering wheel covered in perforated leather are offset with lighter colored seams.
The practical individual seating system of the CrossTouran shows the way in terms of versatility. The three lightweight seats arranged next to one another in the second row can be quickly and easily moved – lengthwise and offset diagonally, folded down or removed. The CrossTouran can be optionally equipped with a third row of seats; if desired, the two full-fledged individual seats can each be easily lowered separately into the luggage compartment floor.
In terms of utilization, the CrossTouran is also extremely flexible when it comes to transporting luggage. In its basic configuration the luggage compartment is 695 liters. When necessary maximum storage volume can be expanded to 1,989 liters by removing the second row of seats and lowering the third row into the luggage compartment floor. Even bulky items or recreational equipment for the weekend pose no problem for the CrossTouran.
SAFETY
High stability passenger compartment and standard front, side and head airbags
The CrossTouran also makes no compromises in terms of safety. The laser-welded and, thanks to high tensile steel, especially rigid Touran body offers a high level of passive safety. The extensive standard safety equipment consisting of safety-optimized headrests in front and on the outer seats of the second row, driver and passenger airbag, side airbags in the front backrests and a head airbag system for the first and second row of seats in conjunction with three-point safety belts on all seats provide optimal occupant protection.
A high level of active safety is provided by the ESP electronic stabilization program including counter-steering feature and trailer stabilization as well as speed-regulated electro-mechanical power steering.
ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS
Six economical engines, two transmissions and a performance range from 75 to 125 kW
No matter if it’s a basic economical engine, dynamic alternative or high-torque and thrifty TSI or TDI, the CrossTouran offers the right engine for every use and taste. All engines comply with the Euro 4 emissions standard.
GASOLINE ENGINES
CrossTouran 1.6 with 75 kW / 102 hp
The entry level is represented by the “smallest” Touran four-cylinder engine with 1.6 liters of engine space and an output of 75 kW / 102 hp. With the basic engine and five-speed manual transmission the CrossTouran is already 176 km/h fast and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 13.3 seconds. Fuel consumption is limited to 8.3 liters over 100 kilometers.CrossTouran 1.4 TSI with 103 kW / 140 hp
The “small” Twincharger TSI deserves special attention. Thanks to twin charging via compressor and turbocharger it features an extremely high-torque and agile characteristic. Nevertheless, the engine is extraordinarily thrifty with 7.6 liters of fuel consumption over a distance of 100 kilometers. For those who like it extremely comfortable, the CrossTouran with this engine type can also be ordered with a DSG (direct shift gearbox).CrossTouran 1.4 TSI with 125 kW / 170 hp
The most powerful direct injection gasoline engine has a sporty temperament and will be used for the first time in the CrossTouran. The gears of the Twincharger with 125 kW / 170 hp will be changed with a DSG direct shift gearbox as part of standard equipment. It also convinces with low fuel consumption with an overall average of 7.8 liters over 100 kilometers. With this engine the CrossTouran has a top speed of 208 km/h and accelerates to 100 km/h in just 8.7 seconds.DIESEL ENGINES
CrossTouran 1.9 TDI with 77 kW / 105 hp
The 1.9 TDI with pump-jet direct injection technology and turbocharger has a standard six-gear transmission, but can also be combined with the innovative DSG direct shift gearbox. The engine accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 13.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 176 km/h (DSG: 174 km/h). With average fuel consumption of only 6.2 (DSG: 6.5) liters for 100 km it is also extra thrifty.CrossTouran 2.0 TDI with 103 kW / 140 hp
The pump-jet four-cylinder direct injection of the 2.0 TDI attains a full 320 Nm of torque. In combination with the standard six-gear transmission it has a top speed of 196 km/h. The 140 hp TDI can be optionally equipped with direct shift gearbox. As a TDI DSG Germany’s most popular compact van goes 194 km/h. It has average fuel consumption of only 6.2 (DSG: 6.8) liters over 100 km.CrossTouran 2.0 TDI with 125 kW / 170 hp
The second 2.0 TDI provides superior driving performance: The engine is equipped with a highly innovative Piezo pump-jet high-pressure unit-injector system and two balancer shafts. This very quiet four-valve TDI has an output of 125 kW / 170 hp (4,200 rpm), developing torque of 350 Nm (1,750 to 2.500 rpm) and accelerating the CrossTouran to 100 km/h in only 9.2 seconds. Top speed is 210 km/h (208 km/h with DSG). Here too average fuel consumption is only 7 liters over 100 kilometers.
