[BEM-S4]

Originally Posted by MGM135is

I had a GTI and really enjoyed it. I just never should have modded it past APR Stage 1. Once I went to Stage 2, that's when putting the power down became much more costly. I really don't mind FWD on my Hybrid, but not another sports/sporty car. I'd rather have RWD or AWD. And after driving both the Golf R and S3, I really don't mind the FWD bias on the haldex system. I think it all just comes down to what type of look you're going after. From what I've seen though, the S3 used prices come down a lot faster than the Golf R. So buying new makes more sense for the VW. If buying used, you can get an S3 that was MSRP for $50K in the $30k range. Similarly used Golf Rs are still in the $30k range despite selling for $39-40k new.

Well said. There are a lot of moving pieces to consider. If you're purely looking for value play and do a lot of highway driving and need a nicer "package" for driving clients or whatever a CPO S3 makes a lot of sense. Haul a bunch of crap just around town? GTI. The FWD bias is a non issue if you plan to just put a bunch of turnpike miles on the car. Track time that becomes an issue.

That's why they don't make just one car though

[smrtypants44]

I test drove a 6MT mk7 R, and was pretty underwhelmed. I guess it was the lack of torque compared to my N55 which made me dislike it. I haven't ever driven a tuned one though.

[BEM-S4]

Originally Posted by smrtypants44

I test drove a 6MT mk7 R, and was pretty underwhelmed. I guess it was the lack of torque compared to my N55 which made me dislike it. I haven't ever driven a tuned one though.

I think it's ok in the context if you want a smaller car but a coupe 2 isn't a viable option - the S3 I mean. The R is ok if you need the versatility of a hatch. I've test driven the current R, S3 for a few days, and the outgoing RS3 as well. The 5-cyl is special but it's a lot of money compared to the others.

If the GC 2 materializes I think that's the one to have. Under $50k and with a tune and MPE I think you're better off from a "driver's car" perspective vs the RS3.

[c1pher]

Originally Posted by smrtypants44

I test drove a 6MT mk7 R, and was pretty underwhelmed. I guess it was the lack of torque compared to my N55 which made me dislike it. I haven't ever driven a tuned one though.

Did you make sure to be in dynamic or individual mode? Kind of like being in sport or sport plus for the BMW.

[AtlasM]

Former coworker had an S3. Comfy seats up front, back seat is very small. Ride is stiff but the body shell is also very stiff and the interior is well put together no rattles even with the stiff ride.

In theory I also prefer the Golf R since the shape is more useful, but VW doesn't offer a sunroof on the R, and I'm a sunroof fan.

[smrtypants44]

Originally Posted by MGM135is

Did you make sure to be in dynamic or individual mode? Kind of like being in sport or sport plus for the BMW.

Yup it was in dynamic. It was a surface street test drive so that might have been a factor. I just didn't like the delay in awd activation, plus it was kinda laggy. It was odd because I expected to really like it (I had a mk6 GTI before the e82) but it was meh for me.

Interior was gorgeous though...higher quality materials than the e82.

[David70]

I think the R is a better value than the S3 but if you don't like hatches I would consider the S3.

If buying a high line $32-$34k GTI I would probably spend the extra for the R. Pay the $6k additional up front and the value is $3k higher 5 years later so the net result isn't as bad as it looks.

[Z K]

I have a GLI stage 1. Same engine/drivetrain as the GTI.

As the above poster said, I heard about stage 2 traction issues. Plus the addition of the downpipe makes the car much louder. As my daily, I didn't want any additional noise.

It's been a great daily for the past 3 years and problem free. Stage 1 is plenty of power for acceleration and sleeper status for surprising other people.

S3/Golf R would be great but a bit out of my price range for a daily commuter.

[NFiftyWon]

Originally Posted by clutchdj

anyone daily one of these? id use it to haul junk and people around for work; plus the wife can drive it.

i am thinking of leasing one and just putting cheater tires on it. that and probably stage 2.

It's already hauling junk, the TFSI motor

[c1pher]

Originally Posted by smrtypants44

I test drove a 6MT mk7 R, and was pretty underwhelmed. I guess it was the lack of torque compared to my N55 which made me dislike it. I haven't ever driven a tuned one though.

Well it is a 4 cylinder. Despite the broad torque range much like the N54/55, it doesn't have the same push. The DSG punishes the motor to get those acceleration times.

[The Automotive Enthusiast]

They look really good. They drive pretty well too. I'd take one over an M240i, that's for sure.