I purchased a 2014 PP golf last week in Northern Ireland, moved from a 2001 s3
Love how new it feels and the technology, looks, style. But Christ do I wish I stayed 4wd. It had brand new Pirelli tyres and no matter what, it spins taking off, wet or dry, and it slides going into corners at speeds my s3 would just take off in.
I was looking at golf r’s, there’s one beside me in Dublin and only has 6k miles on it. But weighing up petrol costs, tax costs, insurance, having to service the rear diff oil, haldex, then registration tax in Ireland, unfortunately it just was a bit over budget for me at the minute. I also hear they’re not exactly 100% reliable. (Could be wrong)
If I had the choice, now, after driving my gti golf for a week. I’d stick with my old s3 or if I had to change car I’d go with a golf r or s3. Just because the Quattro is night and day to FWD.
PFA
The Quattro is night and day if you drive like a tit in the wet.
If you’re sliding then the 4wd will slide too, thats tyre grip not related to traction.
The chassis and VAQ diff of the GTI are quite up to the task on a standard car. You will need to learn how to get the best out of the VAQ though. Progressive throttle and it’ll power through bends like a mid engined car. Less understeer than an R and has more advanced traction control than the 4wd car.
I’ve had a GTI PP both standard and modified, an R likewise and a Clubsport.
Surprise surprise but the GTI’s don’t fall off the road! You might have bought the wrong car for your driving style.
I don’t wear GTI blinkers either, I prefer the R myself.
The GTi is more than capable on UK roads though. Maybe it just doesn’t suit your driving style as it would easily match an older S3 (both standard) at sane road speeds.
