Quote:
Originally Posted by big swede
If you ever get a chance to drive it can you give us your impressions compared to your C30.
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I drove it hard a few times last night (to break in the engine and to double-check everything). I clocked about 15 miles.
The 2.0T is very eager. The power is all there from 1300rpm all the way to at least 5500rpm... 2nd-5th all pretty much feel the same.
The C30's power is pretty much bounded within the 3rd and 4th gears, around 25-50mph. The C30 has a lot more passing power and passing acceleration, and the GTI behaves more linearly throughout.
According to published numbers, both cars are basically just as fast. However, I think the 2.0T feels livelier and the T5 feels more serene. They feel very different despite the similar acceleration numbers.
The VW's suspension is sportier and stiffer, but noticeably less comfortable than my C30's setup (the C30's softness is actually a bit too soft). Steering wheel feedback is about the same. The C30 understeers a bit more through turns and corners. And, I can guarantee the Contis on the GTI are sportier tires than the Michelins on the C30.
Interior-wise, the C30 uses better materials throughout the whole cabin. Everything from the clothes, the soft plastic, the hard plastic, and the switch gears feel higher-quality and more durable. But I think the GTI has slightly better fit and finish... the parts look more precisely made and fitted.
The C30 is much quieter inside. Volvo purposely made the C30 quiet, and VW purposely made the GTI loud. Whatever floats your boat, basically.