Discussion
georgefreeman said:
Great build thread and loving that you have taken the plunge for the supercharger. I have been toying with parting with my MKV R32 but nothing does everything that it does.
Can I ask a few questions regarding your supercharger?
- Why supercharger over turbocharger?
- Does the garage you deal with have a package for this kind of conversion?
- And if so, how much all in?
- Expected figures?
If you would like to PM that's fine, but this is certainly the kind of route I would perhaps like to go down with mine.
Thanks, George
This may help, George:Can I ask a few questions regarding your supercharger?
- Why supercharger over turbocharger?
- Does the garage you deal with have a package for this kind of conversion?
- And if so, how much all in?
- Expected figures?
If you would like to PM that's fine, but this is certainly the kind of route I would perhaps like to go down with mine.
Thanks, George
http://www.r32oc.com/topic/160346-trd-ruf-supercha...
My priority is a reliable car and not to be a test bed.
I think TRD, who are reasonably close to where I live, have reached critical mass when it comes to forced induction on VR6 engines. They use a kit that must be at least one of (if not the) most popular forced induction options out there. It's not the most powerful or cheapest option, but it is proven.
TRD do packages and the costs are in the link above.
Mine is up on the ramps with another R32 at the moment - and I counted at least half a dozen VR6 cars done by TRD since last year. Across the world, there are reported to be around 80 cars using the RUF supercharger conversion.
Depending on the map and other mods (e.g. exhaust), the potential of Stage 1 is 350bhp. Stages 2 and 3 add cooling and therefore more boost, climbing in c.25bhp increments.
RUF Kompressoren are a Swiss supercharger and associated parts manufacturer; not to be confused with the German Porsche tuner, RUF Automobile.
Got the car back! 
I'm afraid that I've only driven it for 40 or so miles today and hence only some first impressions.
The car now sits around 10mm lower to look at, although it may settle some more. Other than this barely perceptible ride height reduction and the Milltek pipes at the rear, you'd never know it wasn't standard. This is exactly what I need.
Firing-up the engine, there's a deeper and more pronounced bark at the tailpipes - plus of course some whine from the supercharger up front. Again, it's quite subtle though. Driving at low revs and light throttle produces no more noise at all and during cruising the whine and exhaust note are almost as quiet as standard - I guess that's due to the soundproofing.
I had put in a tank of 95RON before the work was done, which now needs to clear before I can use the engine to greater effect. That put a bit of a dampner on the initial drive, but even so - it's clear that the charger has made an enormous difference. There was no time to do a dyno run, but I'm going to work out a time with TRD to get that done soon.
The overwhelming impression is that it feels like someone has put a bigger NA engine in it. The all-revs flexibility of the VR6 is still there, but with a turbo-like urge throughout the revs. Just tickling the throttle in 6th takes the car from 50-70 in the blink of an eyelid.
On its new suspension, the car feels very planted and with no obvious loss of comfort. That aspect will really be put to the test when I take the family on holiday to west Wales this weekend.
I am realistic about what this is in comparison to more exotic, factory-developed cars - but be in no doubt that this is a very quick, subtle and characterful way to travel.
Fuller report to follow.
I'm afraid that I've only driven it for 40 or so miles today and hence only some first impressions.
The car now sits around 10mm lower to look at, although it may settle some more. Other than this barely perceptible ride height reduction and the Milltek pipes at the rear, you'd never know it wasn't standard. This is exactly what I need.
Firing-up the engine, there's a deeper and more pronounced bark at the tailpipes - plus of course some whine from the supercharger up front. Again, it's quite subtle though. Driving at low revs and light throttle produces no more noise at all and during cruising the whine and exhaust note are almost as quiet as standard - I guess that's due to the soundproofing.
I had put in a tank of 95RON before the work was done, which now needs to clear before I can use the engine to greater effect. That put a bit of a dampner on the initial drive, but even so - it's clear that the charger has made an enormous difference. There was no time to do a dyno run, but I'm going to work out a time with TRD to get that done soon.
The overwhelming impression is that it feels like someone has put a bigger NA engine in it. The all-revs flexibility of the VR6 is still there, but with a turbo-like urge throughout the revs. Just tickling the throttle in 6th takes the car from 50-70 in the blink of an eyelid.
On its new suspension, the car feels very planted and with no obvious loss of comfort. That aspect will really be put to the test when I take the family on holiday to west Wales this weekend.
I am realistic about what this is in comparison to more exotic, factory-developed cars - but be in no doubt that this is a very quick, subtle and characterful way to travel.
Fuller report to follow.
Driving notes
I've driven the car 600 miles during the first week since the supercharger conversion!
It's not all been exciting, though: 400 miles of this has been with the wife / kids / luggage / bikes on roof, while on holiday! If nothing else, it's proven that the car has massive capability in the 1,500-3,000rpm range, isn't especially noisy in "normal" driving and is perfectly comfortable on its Bilstein B14 suspension.
The VR6's instant throttle response is even better now and I really don't need to change gear to keep up with traffic in any gear, in any situation. This is unlike my old (mapped) S3 and other turbo cars, all of which were caught off-boost; no matter how impressive they were on-boost.
More excitingly, I had a nice 200-mile run down to Southampton without passengers yesterday. I'm usually an inside lane cruiser, but I wanted to see what the car is now capable of.
This included a spirited encounter for around 20 miles with an F30 330d, which is a very quick car in my estimation and exactly the kind of benchmark I had in mind when doing this conversion. Suffice to say, the 330d driver will no doubt be examining re-map options after that.
At full throttle and above 5,000rpm it sounds like a jet! With no badging or other visual giveaways, the way it sounds at full chat must be the only thing that gives a clue...
There are a few things now to do:
- Replace front discs, which I suspect are warped and only lasted 10k;
- Arrange a dyno run - feels like at least 300bhp, although I'm told its potential is 350bhp;
- Investigate occasional "lumpiness" at part throttle (mapping?);
- Get some more pics or a video (the things I have least time for).
I've driven the car 600 miles during the first week since the supercharger conversion!
It's not all been exciting, though: 400 miles of this has been with the wife / kids / luggage / bikes on roof, while on holiday! If nothing else, it's proven that the car has massive capability in the 1,500-3,000rpm range, isn't especially noisy in "normal" driving and is perfectly comfortable on its Bilstein B14 suspension.
The VR6's instant throttle response is even better now and I really don't need to change gear to keep up with traffic in any gear, in any situation. This is unlike my old (mapped) S3 and other turbo cars, all of which were caught off-boost; no matter how impressive they were on-boost.
More excitingly, I had a nice 200-mile run down to Southampton without passengers yesterday. I'm usually an inside lane cruiser, but I wanted to see what the car is now capable of.
This included a spirited encounter for around 20 miles with an F30 330d, which is a very quick car in my estimation and exactly the kind of benchmark I had in mind when doing this conversion. Suffice to say, the 330d driver will no doubt be examining re-map options after that.
At full throttle and above 5,000rpm it sounds like a jet! With no badging or other visual giveaways, the way it sounds at full chat must be the only thing that gives a clue...
There are a few things now to do:
- Replace front discs, which I suspect are warped and only lasted 10k;
- Arrange a dyno run - feels like at least 300bhp, although I'm told its potential is 350bhp;
- Investigate occasional "lumpiness" at part throttle (mapping?);
- Get some more pics or a video (the things I have least time for).
Edited by Basil Hume on Thursday 7th May 13:47
The Bilsteins were fitted by TRD during the conversion work.
Over very broken roads or undulating smooth ones, it does feel ever so slightly less comfortable (quicker rebound) - but it's 95%+ comfortable compared to standard. I have had it lowered only very slightly though; looks like 10-15mm to me.
And yes, it does sound ace. The supercharger whine has worked its way under my skin in the same way that the exhaust note has.
Over very broken roads or undulating smooth ones, it does feel ever so slightly less comfortable (quicker rebound) - but it's 95%+ comfortable compared to standard. I have had it lowered only very slightly though; looks like 10-15mm to me.
And yes, it does sound ace.
The supercharger whine has worked its way under my skin in the same way that the exhaust note has.I went back to TRD today for some new front discs, a checkover...
...and a rolling road run.
I was busy with work calls all day - so they took it off to South West In-Car Tech after the discs were fitted. I know SWICT from long ago and they aren't associated with TRD and seem well-respected locally.
Anyway, the results are in:
The first run was 295bhp ATW (calculated as 371 at the flywheel), dropping to 279 (352) and 270 (338) on the second and third. Torque was 300lb/ft, 280 and 270 respectively.
To me, this says that my non-intercooled engine is capable of an eyecatching peak output in stone cold days or making a first dash on warmer days - but is more likely to have around 10% less on tap when on a longer run or during repeated acceleration. Intercooling would obviously help it hold the boost for longer, which is what Stage 2 & 3 are about I guess.
There were 2 other supercharged R32s on site at TRD, plus a 3.2 TT. I completely recommend these guys if you are looking into something similar.
...and a rolling road run.
I was busy with work calls all day - so they took it off to South West In-Car Tech after the discs were fitted. I know SWICT from long ago and they aren't associated with TRD and seem well-respected locally.
Anyway, the results are in:
The first run was 295bhp ATW (calculated as 371 at the flywheel), dropping to 279 (352) and 270 (338) on the second and third. Torque was 300lb/ft, 280 and 270 respectively.
To me, this says that my non-intercooled engine is capable of an eyecatching peak output in stone cold days or making a first dash on warmer days - but is more likely to have around 10% less on tap when on a longer run or during repeated acceleration. Intercooling would obviously help it hold the boost for longer, which is what Stage 2 & 3 are about I guess.
There were 2 other supercharged R32s on site at TRD, plus a 3.2 TT. I completely recommend these guys if you are looking into something similar.
Month 17: Fuel economy and a 65hp Polo
I've recently got a Shell loyalty card, as it's apparent that I'm going to need one! That's not so much due to fuel economy: rather, it's because the car runs so much better on a higher octane fuel.
I've not kept a very close eye, but managed to get just short of 29mpg on today's brim-to-brim calculation. I had my first weekend on my own since goodness knows when; so I did a nice run over to my parents' place for a road bike race, followed by a gentle 60mph run to Watford for work at 5:45am this morning. I'm currently sat in a soulless hotel here... hence the time to write! That 29mpg is a combination of lots of different driving, but none of it urban - where I suspect the fuel economy is a lot less.
My wife has been driving her mum's 65hp Polo while I'm away, which she "keeps stalling". I advised her to keep the revs up, as it won't quite drive like our grey Golf.
It does make me think seriously about getting a second car again though. That Polo - a dark blue 55-plater, complete with 5-doors and inner-London battle scars - is just what we need for around town / forest school / kids' parties.
I was also very tempted to get on the tail of a passing Mk7 Golf R this morning, although sense got the better of me - as it usually does. Not so with a 15-plate E63 AMG the other day, which I mistook for a Derv-sipper in my rear-view mirror. Inconclusive is all I can say.
Finally, I like the idea of a small question mark decal somewhere on the back of the car. Perhaps something like Valentino Rossi used?
I've recently got a Shell loyalty card, as it's apparent that I'm going to need one! That's not so much due to fuel economy: rather, it's because the car runs so much better on a higher octane fuel.
I've not kept a very close eye, but managed to get just short of 29mpg on today's brim-to-brim calculation. I had my first weekend on my own since goodness knows when; so I did a nice run over to my parents' place for a road bike race, followed by a gentle 60mph run to Watford for work at 5:45am this morning. I'm currently sat in a soulless hotel here... hence the time to write! That 29mpg is a combination of lots of different driving, but none of it urban - where I suspect the fuel economy is a lot less.
My wife has been driving her mum's 65hp Polo while I'm away, which she "keeps stalling". I advised her to keep the revs up, as it won't quite drive like our grey Golf.
It does make me think seriously about getting a second car again though. That Polo - a dark blue 55-plater, complete with 5-doors and inner-London battle scars - is just what we need for around town / forest school / kids' parties.I was also very tempted to get on the tail of a passing Mk7 Golf R this morning, although sense got the better of me - as it usually does. Not so with a 15-plate E63 AMG the other day, which I mistook for a Derv-sipper in my rear-view mirror. Inconclusive is all I can say.
Finally, I like the idea of a small question mark decal somewhere on the back of the car. Perhaps something like Valentino Rossi used?
My wife is driving the car to the zoo today - it was last used at the weekend to take the kids for swimming lessons. The pic below is typical of the sort of use it's getting from me; a short trip after school with the kids' bikes last week:
The car is totally overkill for these sorts of needs. I am beginning to think about our next car, which I think is going to be closer to 200hp than the 350hp I don't use from month to month!
The car is totally overkill for these sorts of needs. I am beginning to think about our next car, which I think is going to be closer to 200hp than the 350hp I don't use from month to month!
Month 18
I've now clocked-up 12,000 miles on the R32, of which 3,000 have been with the supercharger conversion.
“The Minister is visiting North Wales…”
I’d negotiated for the local head of region to meet the Minister in North Wales, but they'd called-in sick 3pm on the afternoon before.
Damn – it was me who was going to have to meet him now! Notwithstanding having to drop all my work, at least my trusty R32 was ready for a bit of action. With a pit-stop hotel booked for a 10:30pm arrival, I set off for the 170-mile trip once the kids were in bed.
Leaving Bristol, I had my second near-encounter with a Mk7 R. Leaving the M4’s managed motorway section, I was really hoping that he’d pop onto the deserted M5 and head north with me… but unfortunately he went south.
After what seemed like an eternity, I left the M5 and onto the M54 – where the fun really began, due to Shropshire’s programme of night road closures.
This gave me an hour or so of unexpected A- and B-road action, following detours through the county. The temperatures were dropping into the mid teens and below by now, which had a very noticeable effect on the perkiness of the engine.
With its new suspension, it’s clear in these situations just how composed and competent the car’s handling now is. It really handles like it’s on rails and you can see normal cars behind just simply unable to follow the cornering lines I take through roundabouts and corners.
The real magic trick is how composed the car feels in these situations and how normal it all feels from in the cabin. It’s really no sweat and there’s rarely any need to change gear; the pull as I drop down to 1,500rpm in 6th gear is so convincing.
Back onto the planned A5 and then A483… Wide, open roads with plenty of roundabouts - ahead of an uncomfortable overnight stay in a Chester motel and a gratuitously boring car park shot:
I took the M56, M6 & M5 route home the next day, having done what was needed of me.
I had a decisive 4th gear shoot-out with an SQ5 on the last stretches of the M56, which I must say was a fair bit slower than I was expecting. I also had a good-natured spar with a Mk7 GTD along about 20+ miles of M5 - he must have wondered what was going on, given the gaps I was pulling.
With an upcoming (positive) development at work, I think that may well have been my last run to North Wales - which I've enjoyed a lot over the last 3 years or so. I'll miss them especially because they've been the few occasions where I've had time on my own in the car.
Transformer
The roof bars came out that following weekend, because it was time to go camping! We've not used our bell tent since having the kids, but it all came together for a beautiful weekend:
To be honest, it was a bit of a squeeze to get all our gear into the car and there was no way it would have been possible without the roof "box" (a foldable Thule Ranger). I did like the 12V boot power socket in the boot though, for our inflatables.
Just goes to show how versatile a Golf is - even a scalding hot one.
Driving notes - updated
With 3,000 miles now under its wheels since the supercharger conversion, I thought I'd update my driving notes - at risk of repeating some earlier impressions...
The basic characteristics of the engine are still very similar to the standard R32, in that it's very linear.
It's one of the few petrols I've driven where you can make progress by simply engaging the clutch at idle speed and it comes on very strong from about 1,500rpm. The supercharger boosts fully from about 3,000rpm, where it's making peak torque of 280-300lb/ft all the way to the redline at 7,000+rpm. Because it's also making 150bhp at that point, it's basically like driving a moderately powerful TDI from idle to 3,000rpm - except with a much richer engine note and no lag whatsoever.
I spend most of my time driving at those engine speeds and it proves the point that doing this sort of conversion really isn't just about peak power. It's very driveable at normal speeds and, because of the instant throttle response, it's very quick too.
Above 3,000rpm: it's as nuts as you might expect. You don't feel a massive jump in outputs as you do in a turbo'd car, but the exhaust note hardens and from 5,000rpm it really does sound like a jet from there to the redline (which I've not hit yet, but think is about 7,500rpm). I don't drive at these engine speeds very often at all, but when I have done it's been more than enough to very comfortably see off whatever's bothering me.
Obviously it's still 4WD, which means it's always possible to get that power down. This - along with the lazy power delivery - gives the car its unique selling point over the likes of a big power K04 turbo (GTI 30 etc).
Downsides are few. The car runs a custom ECU code. The only difference I notice to the factory mapping is that the car sometimes idles at 1,500rpm for c.30 seconds when it's warmed-up and will sometimes drop idle speed from there before rising again. After that 30 seconds, it will drop for the last time to the usual idle speed of 800rpm or so. It's something you'd notice only at traffic light stops or at a snail's pace and arguably gives it character, but leads to me feathering the clutch for a smooth drive at slow speeds sometimes.
My Stage 1 conversion isn't intercooled either, which means although the outputs can peak at 370bhp & 300lb.ft, that will drop by up to 10% on repeated runs due to heat soak. That's really no bother for me, as I (nor most people) won't be driving at maximum outputs for very long at a time.
Bottom line
Altogether, I'm delighted with the car - it's just a regret of mine that I don't get sufficient time to spend with it on my own!
I've now clocked-up 12,000 miles on the R32, of which 3,000 have been with the supercharger conversion.
“The Minister is visiting North Wales…”
I’d negotiated for the local head of region to meet the Minister in North Wales, but they'd called-in sick 3pm on the afternoon before.
Damn – it was me who was going to have to meet him now! Notwithstanding having to drop all my work, at least my trusty R32 was ready for a bit of action. With a pit-stop hotel booked for a 10:30pm arrival, I set off for the 170-mile trip once the kids were in bed.
Leaving Bristol, I had my second near-encounter with a Mk7 R. Leaving the M4’s managed motorway section, I was really hoping that he’d pop onto the deserted M5 and head north with me… but unfortunately he went south.
After what seemed like an eternity, I left the M5 and onto the M54 – where the fun really began, due to Shropshire’s programme of night road closures.
This gave me an hour or so of unexpected A- and B-road action, following detours through the county. The temperatures were dropping into the mid teens and below by now, which had a very noticeable effect on the perkiness of the engine.
With its new suspension, it’s clear in these situations just how composed and competent the car’s handling now is. It really handles like it’s on rails and you can see normal cars behind just simply unable to follow the cornering lines I take through roundabouts and corners.
The real magic trick is how composed the car feels in these situations and how normal it all feels from in the cabin. It’s really no sweat and there’s rarely any need to change gear; the pull as I drop down to 1,500rpm in 6th gear is so convincing.
Back onto the planned A5 and then A483… Wide, open roads with plenty of roundabouts - ahead of an uncomfortable overnight stay in a Chester motel and a gratuitously boring car park shot:
I took the M56, M6 & M5 route home the next day, having done what was needed of me.
I had a decisive 4th gear shoot-out with an SQ5 on the last stretches of the M56, which I must say was a fair bit slower than I was expecting. I also had a good-natured spar with a Mk7 GTD along about 20+ miles of M5 - he must have wondered what was going on, given the gaps I was pulling.
With an upcoming (positive) development at work, I think that may well have been my last run to North Wales - which I've enjoyed a lot over the last 3 years or so. I'll miss them especially because they've been the few occasions where I've had time on my own in the car.
Transformer
The roof bars came out that following weekend, because it was time to go camping! We've not used our bell tent since having the kids, but it all came together for a beautiful weekend:
To be honest, it was a bit of a squeeze to get all our gear into the car and there was no way it would have been possible without the roof "box" (a foldable Thule Ranger). I did like the 12V boot power socket in the boot though, for our inflatables.
Just goes to show how versatile a Golf is - even a scalding hot one.
Driving notes - updated
With 3,000 miles now under its wheels since the supercharger conversion, I thought I'd update my driving notes - at risk of repeating some earlier impressions...
The basic characteristics of the engine are still very similar to the standard R32, in that it's very linear.
It's one of the few petrols I've driven where you can make progress by simply engaging the clutch at idle speed and it comes on very strong from about 1,500rpm. The supercharger boosts fully from about 3,000rpm, where it's making peak torque of 280-300lb/ft all the way to the redline at 7,000+rpm. Because it's also making 150bhp at that point, it's basically like driving a moderately powerful TDI from idle to 3,000rpm - except with a much richer engine note and no lag whatsoever.
I spend most of my time driving at those engine speeds and it proves the point that doing this sort of conversion really isn't just about peak power. It's very driveable at normal speeds and, because of the instant throttle response, it's very quick too.
Above 3,000rpm: it's as nuts as you might expect. You don't feel a massive jump in outputs as you do in a turbo'd car, but the exhaust note hardens and from 5,000rpm it really does sound like a jet from there to the redline (which I've not hit yet, but think is about 7,500rpm). I don't drive at these engine speeds very often at all, but when I have done it's been more than enough to very comfortably see off whatever's bothering me.
Obviously it's still 4WD, which means it's always possible to get that power down. This - along with the lazy power delivery - gives the car its unique selling point over the likes of a big power K04 turbo (GTI 30 etc).
Downsides are few. The car runs a custom ECU code. The only difference I notice to the factory mapping is that the car sometimes idles at 1,500rpm for c.30 seconds when it's warmed-up and will sometimes drop idle speed from there before rising again. After that 30 seconds, it will drop for the last time to the usual idle speed of 800rpm or so. It's something you'd notice only at traffic light stops or at a snail's pace and arguably gives it character, but leads to me feathering the clutch for a smooth drive at slow speeds sometimes.
My Stage 1 conversion isn't intercooled either, which means although the outputs can peak at 370bhp & 300lb.ft, that will drop by up to 10% on repeated runs due to heat soak. That's really no bother for me, as I (nor most people) won't be driving at maximum outputs for very long at a time.
Bottom line
Altogether, I'm delighted with the car - it's just a regret of mine that I don't get sufficient time to spend with it on my own!
Reflections on a Mk7
My in-laws recently changed their 10-year old Mk5 GT 2.0 TDI for a Mk7. It's another GT 2.0 TDI, in Reflex Silver with upgraded Geneva wheels. I wanted to have a really good look around the car, as I'm fairly certain that a Mk7 of some variety will be my next car.
The first thing is how similar the Mk7 looks to the Mk5. There is of course the family resemblance from the outside, but this extends far beyond - it's things like the shape of the interior trim and layout of the essential components, which are much more like the older car.
Although my mechanical knowledge of the Mk7 is limited, it's easy to spot the same parts or at least some similar designs. The brake callipers, boot badge, interior grab handles and such like being obvious examples.
It feels like much less of a fundamental re-think than the Mk3, Mk4 or Mk5 were over their predecessors (ignoring the Mk6, which basically a facelift). The interior - especially the dashboard top, door handles and seat trim - look and feel lower quality than I was expecting, although this would be better with a leather interior model. However, the electronics and entertainment seem a lot more modern.
It's a very quiet and competent drive. The damping of the GT model seems well-judged, although obviously the performance is a little lacking compared to my own car. I averaged 55mpg during my stint with the car.
Overall, it feels like an evolved, modern and polished product - but also one that's a good 10% less "expensive" in feel. A bit like a less extreme version of what a Barratt home is to the Victorian equivalent it is modelled upon.
My in-laws recently changed their 10-year old Mk5 GT 2.0 TDI for a Mk7. It's another GT 2.0 TDI, in Reflex Silver with upgraded Geneva wheels. I wanted to have a really good look around the car, as I'm fairly certain that a Mk7 of some variety will be my next car.
The first thing is how similar the Mk7 looks to the Mk5. There is of course the family resemblance from the outside, but this extends far beyond - it's things like the shape of the interior trim and layout of the essential components, which are much more like the older car.
Although my mechanical knowledge of the Mk7 is limited, it's easy to spot the same parts or at least some similar designs. The brake callipers, boot badge, interior grab handles and such like being obvious examples.
It feels like much less of a fundamental re-think than the Mk3, Mk4 or Mk5 were over their predecessors (ignoring the Mk6, which basically a facelift). The interior - especially the dashboard top, door handles and seat trim - look and feel lower quality than I was expecting, although this would be better with a leather interior model. However, the electronics and entertainment seem a lot more modern.
It's a very quiet and competent drive. The damping of the GT model seems well-judged, although obviously the performance is a little lacking compared to my own car. I averaged 55mpg during my stint with the car.
Overall, it feels like an evolved, modern and polished product - but also one that's a good 10% less "expensive" in feel. A bit like a less extreme version of what a Barratt home is to the Victorian equivalent it is modelled upon.
Month 19 - Holidays!
I'm writing this from a holiday cottage in Cornwall, with the R32 having gotten us to (and around) this part of the world in some reasonable comfort. Now that the kids are beyond toddler age - 3 & 5 - we don't need to take quite so much stuff with us, although a roof box is still mandatory:
I've enjoyed some deserted, well-surfaced and very twisty local roads over the last week. I think I'm taking this car for granted, because it's so easy to drive on unfamiliar roads; as well as in every gear and weather condition. As usual, the family is on board, so I'm mainly driving at modest speeds and in the 1,500-2,000rpm range.
Next week, we're off on another family holiday to the south of Brittany in the R32. I've bought a Sanef "Liber-T" tag for the motorway stretches, got my French emergency kit and investigated filling stations that sell Super 98. I'll report back on how we get along...
We've been talking a lot about a larger, more practical car. The R32 has risen to every occasion, but it's basically too small for the holidays, family visits and camping we've done this year - or would like to do more of - not to mention the gap between the performance available from this supercharged R32 and that which gets used.
My wife wants a new VW California, which we could afford - but I'm not convinced we'd use enough to justify. She won't even entertain the thought of a 4x4 or crossover (too noveau riche), nor anything from one of the more aspirational brands (BMW, Audi etc) - and I'm not keen on people carriers. That leaves a limited selection of models from Volvo, VW or Skoda - with the remaining question being whether we go back to 2 cars, in order to have a larger and smaller one.
At the moment, the choice of 1 car looks like: Golf R estate, VRS estate, another V60, or just possibly a Prius (yes, I know that's totally nuts - but it's a weird itch I'd like to scratch). For 2 cars, the larger one would be something like a B5/7 RS4 or vintage Volvo V70 T5... or just maybe that California my wife really wants - together with something like a VW Up.
Either way, I'll book the R32 in for a service and perhaps an early MoT once we're back in September. Happy holidays!
I'm writing this from a holiday cottage in Cornwall, with the R32 having gotten us to (and around) this part of the world in some reasonable comfort. Now that the kids are beyond toddler age - 3 & 5 - we don't need to take quite so much stuff with us, although a roof box is still mandatory:
I've enjoyed some deserted, well-surfaced and very twisty local roads over the last week. I think I'm taking this car for granted, because it's so easy to drive on unfamiliar roads; as well as in every gear and weather condition. As usual, the family is on board, so I'm mainly driving at modest speeds and in the 1,500-2,000rpm range.
Next week, we're off on another family holiday to the south of Brittany in the R32. I've bought a Sanef "Liber-T" tag for the motorway stretches, got my French emergency kit and investigated filling stations that sell Super 98. I'll report back on how we get along...
We've been talking a lot about a larger, more practical car. The R32 has risen to every occasion, but it's basically too small for the holidays, family visits and camping we've done this year - or would like to do more of - not to mention the gap between the performance available from this supercharged R32 and that which gets used.
My wife wants a new VW California, which we could afford - but I'm not convinced we'd use enough to justify. She won't even entertain the thought of a 4x4 or crossover (too noveau riche), nor anything from one of the more aspirational brands (BMW, Audi etc) - and I'm not keen on people carriers. That leaves a limited selection of models from Volvo, VW or Skoda - with the remaining question being whether we go back to 2 cars, in order to have a larger and smaller one.
At the moment, the choice of 1 car looks like: Golf R estate, VRS estate, another V60, or just possibly a Prius (yes, I know that's totally nuts - but it's a weird itch I'd like to scratch). For 2 cars, the larger one would be something like a B5/7 RS4 or vintage Volvo V70 T5... or just maybe that California my wife really wants - together with something like a VW Up.
Either way, I'll book the R32 in for a service and perhaps an early MoT once we're back in September. Happy holidays!
Month 20
After the summer months, when most mileage is added to my cars, the R32's total is now 60,625. That's 15,217 during my ownership - and 5,525 since the supercharger conversion.
Driving the car to France for the first week of September highlighted what a versatile, confident and capable car this is. With billiard-table smooth roads aplenty and a roof box to help, our family of 4 were able to cover the miles in comfort and barely going over 2,500rpm the whole week. Fuel economy for the trip was about 31-32mpg, based on brim-to-brim calculations and Super 98 fuel was easier to find than its equivalent at home.
It was also a frustrating experience. Imagine having the constant come-on suggestions of a 370hp car constantly nagging via its VR6 warble and the alluring whine of its supercharger... a constant torment, as my wife and 3 & 5 year-olds doze, playing I-spy or tell me to stop accelerating so quickly! (Which is pretty hard, when I usually change up at 2,000rpm with them on board!).
The car is now back in the hands of my wife in the main. Neither of us drive to work, so it's either used by her for local trips (e.g. taking our youngest to the zoo) or with me driving it at weekends on other family duties.
I did manage to break free for a trip to Turner Race Developments today, for a service and checkover at a very reasonable £177.79. Dan found the car to be in perfect health, recommending only that I changed of the auxillary belt (the "old" one was only 5.5k miles old) to a superior version. The tyres are on 5mm at the front and 4mm at the back, so a little less worn than I'd suspected.
Really, I recommend TRD without hesitation. They are gentlemen of the trade and are always one step ahead of your thinking when it comes to car maintenance. Mine was the 4th supercharged R32 at their unit today!
Unfortunately, nothing in the last few months has persuaded me out of my intention to sell-up and get a more boring car. Having such a lovely motor as our family wheels has proven mainly that a grey, luxurious Golf is great - but that the other attributes are mainly an indulgence that I can't use often enough.
As a Pistonheader, I'm embarrassed to say what new car I've this week placed an order for... so I won't (yet - it arrives in December). The private plates have come off this evening and I'll be making preparations for the car's sale over the coming weeks.
After the summer months, when most mileage is added to my cars, the R32's total is now 60,625. That's 15,217 during my ownership - and 5,525 since the supercharger conversion.
Driving the car to France for the first week of September highlighted what a versatile, confident and capable car this is. With billiard-table smooth roads aplenty and a roof box to help, our family of 4 were able to cover the miles in comfort and barely going over 2,500rpm the whole week. Fuel economy for the trip was about 31-32mpg, based on brim-to-brim calculations and Super 98 fuel was easier to find than its equivalent at home.
It was also a frustrating experience. Imagine having the constant come-on suggestions of a 370hp car constantly nagging via its VR6 warble and the alluring whine of its supercharger... a constant torment, as my wife and 3 & 5 year-olds doze, playing I-spy or tell me to stop accelerating so quickly! (Which is pretty hard, when I usually change up at 2,000rpm with them on board!).
The car is now back in the hands of my wife in the main. Neither of us drive to work, so it's either used by her for local trips (e.g. taking our youngest to the zoo) or with me driving it at weekends on other family duties.
I did manage to break free for a trip to Turner Race Developments today, for a service and checkover at a very reasonable £177.79. Dan found the car to be in perfect health, recommending only that I changed of the auxillary belt (the "old" one was only 5.5k miles old) to a superior version. The tyres are on 5mm at the front and 4mm at the back, so a little less worn than I'd suspected.
Really, I recommend TRD without hesitation. They are gentlemen of the trade and are always one step ahead of your thinking when it comes to car maintenance. Mine was the 4th supercharged R32 at their unit today!
Unfortunately, nothing in the last few months has persuaded me out of my intention to sell-up and get a more boring car. Having such a lovely motor as our family wheels has proven mainly that a grey, luxurious Golf is great - but that the other attributes are mainly an indulgence that I can't use often enough.
As a Pistonheader, I'm embarrassed to say what new car I've this week placed an order for... so I won't (yet - it arrives in December). The private plates have come off this evening and I'll be making preparations for the car's sale over the coming weeks.
Month 22
At the beginning of October, I agreed the sale of the R32 to its prospective owner - having placed the order for my new family-friendly replacement during September.
Playing swapsies
The buyer (who is of this parish) needed to shift his own GTI before the purchase could complete. With 2 months before the arrival of the new car, I was initially worried that I might be left without a wheels. However, with my new car now due this Friday and no sale of the GTI, I suggested that I take the GTI as part payment.
I'm actually quite looking forward to this: my family will be satisfied with the new family car (a Golf SV 1.4 GT with £5k of options) and I'll avoid going cold turkey by having the GTI...for a while at least. It's a very well-cared-for '08 Mk5 3-door with leather and 18" Monzas, with just 2 owners (the current one having taken it from 36k to its current 96k miles). I reasoned that it should be reasonably straightforward to sell in the New Year without the pressure to sell quickly - unless I decide to keep it long term.
Goodbye R32
I'll write some more reflective notes on the whole experience once it's actually gone, but it's already clear that I'll miss the R32.
I've barely had the chance to use the car in recent weeks. When I have done, the things that strike me are how easy it is to use; what a pleasure it is to all the senses; and how practical it is. New road in bad weather? Not a problem. Need to make "progress" under the radar? Sure thing. And it feels lovely the whole time.
Final update to follow - the sale is due this weekend.
At the beginning of October, I agreed the sale of the R32 to its prospective owner - having placed the order for my new family-friendly replacement during September.
Playing swapsies
The buyer (who is of this parish) needed to shift his own GTI before the purchase could complete. With 2 months before the arrival of the new car, I was initially worried that I might be left without a wheels. However, with my new car now due this Friday and no sale of the GTI, I suggested that I take the GTI as part payment.
I'm actually quite looking forward to this: my family will be satisfied with the new family car (a Golf SV 1.4 GT with £5k of options) and I'll avoid going cold turkey by having the GTI...for a while at least. It's a very well-cared-for '08 Mk5 3-door with leather and 18" Monzas, with just 2 owners (the current one having taken it from 36k to its current 96k miles). I reasoned that it should be reasonably straightforward to sell in the New Year without the pressure to sell quickly - unless I decide to keep it long term.
Goodbye R32
I'll write some more reflective notes on the whole experience once it's actually gone, but it's already clear that I'll miss the R32.
I've barely had the chance to use the car in recent weeks. When I have done, the things that strike me are how easy it is to use; what a pleasure it is to all the senses; and how practical it is. New road in bad weather? Not a problem. Need to make "progress" under the radar? Sure thing. And it feels lovely the whole time.
Final update to follow - the sale is due this weekend.
Well, it's funny this thread should pop up; just as I'm visiting the site for the first time in ages! As djdest alludes to, I did indeed take the Mk5 GTI from si_xsi as part payment.
I'm afraid to say that I sold the GTI within a month or so of getting it. Simon had really looked after the car, but I only used it twice... so my comparison notes aren't going to run far! It was nice, but not a patch on the car it replaced - and I just wasn't using it. Oddly, my 64-year-old mum really took a shine to it and was especially sad to see it go!
By way of a rounder completion to the story (for me) - and as mentioned earlier in the thread - I sold the R32 after deliberating for around 6 months, starting just after the supercharer conversion. It just wasn't fitting well into my life and, so far, the cold turkey experience of going to a 150hp Mk7 Golf Sportsvan is wearing surprisingly well.
Several existing pressures built to the point where there was little enjoyment for me or point continuing with a delicious - but frustrated - supercharged R32 experience: my kids ageing to the point where they need bigger bikes and kit carrying around; my wife's insistence that she won't drive anything larger than a C-segment hatch; the fact I commute by bike every day; my city centre location; and a big reduction in work road trips.
For the time being, I'm taking a very unexpected satisfaction in having a baby MPV. Someone wise once said to me that the secret to happiness is to not care about the things you don't care about... I just don't care anymore about whether an alloy has gained a new kerb mark; about a new parking scratch on the bumper; whether or not cheese sandwiches were eaten in the back when my wife took my son to forest school; whether I will be able to find Shell Optimax on my next trip etc etc.
...And then there's all the good stuff: the delight my kids take in flipping the new Golf SV's rear seat trays up and down or sliding the rear bench back and forth; the cubbly holes for all their favourite animals; the fact that I can press a button to send more noise of that all-important kids' story to the rear speakers, so that I can speak to my wife without being berated; the 40:20:60 rear seats, which allow for a bike to be inserted whole between the kids without breaking out the roof rack; the 600 litres of boot space etc etc.
Simon posted elsewhere about his unfortunate introduction to life with the R32. We've been in contact as the ups and downs were borne and the resolution found.
As I say, I haven't been on this or other car forums since last November. I've been busying myself with building an ever-increasing number of bikes and trying to ride them as much as possible: it's called distraction therapy!
We'll see how long this withdrawal from performance cars lasts...
I'm afraid to say that I sold the GTI within a month or so of getting it. Simon had really looked after the car, but I only used it twice... so my comparison notes aren't going to run far! It was nice, but not a patch on the car it replaced - and I just wasn't using it. Oddly, my 64-year-old mum really took a shine to it and was especially sad to see it go!
By way of a rounder completion to the story (for me) - and as mentioned earlier in the thread - I sold the R32 after deliberating for around 6 months, starting just after the supercharer conversion. It just wasn't fitting well into my life and, so far, the cold turkey experience of going to a 150hp Mk7 Golf Sportsvan is wearing surprisingly well.
Several existing pressures built to the point where there was little enjoyment for me or point continuing with a delicious - but frustrated - supercharged R32 experience: my kids ageing to the point where they need bigger bikes and kit carrying around; my wife's insistence that she won't drive anything larger than a C-segment hatch; the fact I commute by bike every day; my city centre location; and a big reduction in work road trips.
For the time being, I'm taking a very unexpected satisfaction in having a baby MPV. Someone wise once said to me that the secret to happiness is to not care about the things you don't care about... I just don't care anymore about whether an alloy has gained a new kerb mark; about a new parking scratch on the bumper; whether or not cheese sandwiches were eaten in the back when my wife took my son to forest school; whether I will be able to find Shell Optimax on my next trip etc etc.
...And then there's all the good stuff: the delight my kids take in flipping the new Golf SV's rear seat trays up and down or sliding the rear bench back and forth; the cubbly holes for all their favourite animals; the fact that I can press a button to send more noise of that all-important kids' story to the rear speakers, so that I can speak to my wife without being berated; the 40:20:60 rear seats, which allow for a bike to be inserted whole between the kids without breaking out the roof rack; the 600 litres of boot space etc etc.
Simon posted elsewhere about his unfortunate introduction to life with the R32. We've been in contact as the ups and downs were borne and the resolution found.
As I say, I haven't been on this or other car forums since last November. I've been busying myself with building an ever-increasing number of bikes and trying to ride them as much as possible: it's called distraction therapy!
We'll see how long this withdrawal from performance cars lasts...
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