needquattro

I've had the chance to drive two B6 1.8T's. Chris Hajjar offered up his Dahlback stage 1+ with chip and injectors, as well as exhaust and coilovers on his 04 ultrasport 6MT. A very enjoyable ride. Not much happening below 3500 RPM, with a smooth and rapid spool up after that. Lots of HP and torque if the revs are kept up. Subjectively very fast. Minimal exacerbation of lag. Mellow, unobtrusive exhaust. Nicely balance damping on the coilovers.

Also drove Chris E's APR stage 1 02 5MT. Very similar engine/turbo dynamics, not quite as fast seat-of-the pants, but smoother throttle response.

Both cars suffered from driveline shudder in the upper 2000 RPM range, the APR car more so than the Dahlback. Both I found short on torque in highway cruising mode above 70 MPH, requiring downshifts for passing, and generally below 3000 RPM, requiring revs above that number for spirited driving.

Both, however, were highly enjoyable cars to drive, displaying an inherently solid chassis. They do require a certain driving style to move quickly.

I remain undecided as I ponder my own purchase, a 1.8T to mod or a 3.0. Coming out of an E46 BMW, and used to smooth torque and throttle tip in from 1500 to redline, I'm leaning toward the 3.0.

Just my long-winded thoughts. Any comments appreciated. And many thanks to the Chris's for their time and interest!

SnailA4(WhaleA4)

I am constantly amazed at the smoothness of our 325 6 cylinder. My A4 is more "sporty" but the 6 has it for engine smoothness.

tuneda4

i am getting my stage 2 plus from apr this wed. should have the car back by friday. i have an 041.8tqm ultrasport also with coilovers. if chris is around i would love to test the 2 cars side by side. i am from long island ny

chris@dubaudi

when you get used to where the power is you tend to anticipate the downshifts and other driving dynamics because you know if you arent gonna get anything if you put your foot on the gas. im glad i could help make your decision a little tougher, now you just need to drive a 3.0

neoprufrok

It would seem only fair to compare chip and injectors for both companies. I like both companies since they are the only ones who seem to understand that fueling is not as good on the b6's as the b5's, thus the injectors to get better HP.

needquattro

You make a valid point; the APR was chip only. I wasn't really intending to compare chip to chip, but to compare chip vs. no chip. I'm sure the APR would be perkier with more efficient fuel delivery.

needquattro

I've driven the 3.0 6MT. Felt heavy and mushy compared to the 1.8T. Has anyone done a coilover or lowering springs on their 6 speed 3.0 that I could take for a spin with you? This could help me decide whether or not to spring for a 3.0 (no pun intended).

I'm in Southern NH/northern metro Boston. Again, thanks to the helpful people on this board.