hi,
I'm running a 2001 GTI 1.8T i've been considering some suspension upgrades but something my mechanic said to me is making me thing twice - this guy has some pretty extensive VAG experience having run a mkIII VR6, a 225bhp TT, a mkIV 1.8t and currently an Audi S3. He reckons that I'd be wasting my money shelling out on the suspension because the car was primarily designed as a cruiser and modifying the suspension via coilovers or uprated dampers (although improving handling) will result in a very stiff and uncompliant ride with particular reference to irish roads (which are bloody terrible). He said if I wanted something more sports focused I should just change cars and get a TT or an S3. He said the only think I should bother doing is chipping and better brakes.
Seeing as this sort of goes against a lot of what's posted here I'm looking for some counter arguements to help me make up my mind...
Basically what I'm looking for is overall sharper handling - less body roll, better feel from the steering wheel, more front end grip and sharper turn in.
The problem is I want all this with minimal effect on ride - so I was thinking of just fitting some uprated anti roll bars and maybe 50mm lowering springs. I read that some people start by fitting the rear anti-roll bar first and as a result of tightening the rear end you get a more neutral/oversteer effect (because of softer front end). Does this work? What kind of effect should I expect from uprating rear or both anti-roll bars? What about lowering springs - will lowering 50mm improve grip or is that only for looks (which I'm not too concerned about to be honest).
Any/all feedback is greatly appreciated as I'm planning on getting the car Revo'd soon so I'd like to get brakes and suspension changes made in advance
Cheers
Shane
I'm running a 2001 GTI 1.8T i've been considering some suspension upgrades but something my mechanic said to me is making me thing twice - this guy has some pretty extensive VAG experience having run a mkIII VR6, a 225bhp TT, a mkIV 1.8t and currently an Audi S3. He reckons that I'd be wasting my money shelling out on the suspension because the car was primarily designed as a cruiser and modifying the suspension via coilovers or uprated dampers (although improving handling) will result in a very stiff and uncompliant ride with particular reference to irish roads (which are bloody terrible). He said if I wanted something more sports focused I should just change cars and get a TT or an S3. He said the only think I should bother doing is chipping and better brakes.
Seeing as this sort of goes against a lot of what's posted here I'm looking for some counter arguements to help me make up my mind...
Basically what I'm looking for is overall sharper handling - less body roll, better feel from the steering wheel, more front end grip and sharper turn in.
The problem is I want all this with minimal effect on ride - so I was thinking of just fitting some uprated anti roll bars and maybe 50mm lowering springs. I read that some people start by fitting the rear anti-roll bar first and as a result of tightening the rear end you get a more neutral/oversteer effect (because of softer front end). Does this work? What kind of effect should I expect from uprating rear or both anti-roll bars? What about lowering springs - will lowering 50mm improve grip or is that only for looks (which I'm not too concerned about to be honest).
Any/all feedback is greatly appreciated as I'm planning on getting the car Revo'd soon so I'd like to get brakes and suspension changes made in advance
Cheers
Shane