OT: Test drive '06 GTI and stopped M3 Thieves in their tracks! it's a read...
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OT: Test drive '06 GTI and stopped M3 Thieves in their tracks! it's a read...
The automotive press has been raving about the DSG tranny in the Audi A3 and new 2.0T GTI. It's also been said that the feeling of a "drivers car" is back in the gen V GTI. And for the first time in 31 years the car has finally gotten independent rear suspension. So I felt the need to go find out how true these things are for myself. I have a longstanding relationship with my salesman, so he tossed me the keys to a base model 6M with no options and all season 17 inch tires.
The car felt nice, more refined yet more communicative, definitely roomier than my car. And although it felt slower than my chipped 1.8T, the car is definitely quicker than a stock Gen IV car. Road tests have revealed .3 to .7 tenths of a difference in 1/4 mile and 0-60 times depending on trim (DSG cars being the quickest). After a 5 minute spin I came back to climb into a DSG equipped GTI with the optional 18's w/summer tires and the sunroof/Sirius radio package (the latter is a package I can do without).
The second car felt even crisper with the taller summer tires, and the DSG tranny is way more fun than anyone in a $23K car should be having. Pulls hard anywhere on the tach, and if left in manual mode will do all the shifting/thinking based on throttle input. It's pretty much idiot-proof if you wanna go fast with little effort. The paddles are cool, but I'd rather keep both hands gripping the wheel and just mash the gas.
After getting off I95, while sitting at the light on the off ramp heading back to the dealership I spot a guy in the train station parking lot squatting next to a red E46 M3, about 15 feet away is his obvious accomplice sitting in a late model Pontiac Bonneville rent a car. I hate to stereotype, but based on what I saw at that moment and their appearance I knew these guys were up to no good, not to mention they looked kind of out of place in the posh Connecticut suburb.
I've never been one for vigilante justice, but I circled the lot once and by the time I came out to RT 1, I stopped a police cruiser and told him about some activity around a fancy red BMW just 2 blocks away. Just so people understand, the cops in this community are far from the indifferent inner-city cops I'm used to, these guys are hands on law enforcers. He sped away instantly and I went back to the dealership.
Fast forward ten minutes....
Now, back in my car I drive by the train station parking lot and there appears to be every available police car at the scene. Red M3 has driver side door wide open and there are cops walking around near it and in the parking lot. The enterprise rent a Bonneville is now empty and half way in/out of a parking space. Perps nowhere in sight. At that moment I was unsure as to whether they got away or not. I just got on the highway and went home.
Fast forward 3 hours.....
Speak to my salesman buddy, two men were apprehended with burglary tools for attempted grand theft auto. I basically gave the cops an anonymous tip which led to someone keeping their M3 and two crooks getting snagged.
Chalk one up for home team!
The car felt nice, more refined yet more communicative, definitely roomier than my car. And although it felt slower than my chipped 1.8T, the car is definitely quicker than a stock Gen IV car. Road tests have revealed .3 to .7 tenths of a difference in 1/4 mile and 0-60 times depending on trim (DSG cars being the quickest). After a 5 minute spin I came back to climb into a DSG equipped GTI with the optional 18's w/summer tires and the sunroof/Sirius radio package (the latter is a package I can do without).
The second car felt even crisper with the taller summer tires, and the DSG tranny is way more fun than anyone in a $23K car should be having. Pulls hard anywhere on the tach, and if left in manual mode will do all the shifting/thinking based on throttle input. It's pretty much idiot-proof if you wanna go fast with little effort. The paddles are cool, but I'd rather keep both hands gripping the wheel and just mash the gas.
After getting off I95, while sitting at the light on the off ramp heading back to the dealership I spot a guy in the train station parking lot squatting next to a red E46 M3, about 15 feet away is his obvious accomplice sitting in a late model Pontiac Bonneville rent a car. I hate to stereotype, but based on what I saw at that moment and their appearance I knew these guys were up to no good, not to mention they looked kind of out of place in the posh Connecticut suburb.
I've never been one for vigilante justice, but I circled the lot once and by the time I came out to RT 1, I stopped a police cruiser and told him about some activity around a fancy red BMW just 2 blocks away. Just so people understand, the cops in this community are far from the indifferent inner-city cops I'm used to, these guys are hands on law enforcers. He sped away instantly and I went back to the dealership.
Fast forward ten minutes....
Now, back in my car I drive by the train station parking lot and there appears to be every available police car at the scene. Red M3 has driver side door wide open and there are cops walking around near it and in the parking lot. The enterprise rent a Bonneville is now empty and half way in/out of a parking space. Perps nowhere in sight. At that moment I was unsure as to whether they got away or not. I just got on the highway and went home.
Fast forward 3 hours.....
Speak to my salesman buddy, two men were apprehended with burglary tools for attempted grand theft auto. I basically gave the cops an anonymous tip which led to someone keeping their M3 and two crooks getting snagged.
Chalk one up for home team!
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Re: OT: Test drive '06 GTI and stopped M3 Thieves in their tracks! it's a read... (H-PIMP)
I to have heard really good things about the DSG equipped GTI from friends that are into VW's.
Good job on the both reports.
I would say that Mr. M3 owner owes you a $50K drink. 
Good job on the both reports.
I would say that Mr. M3 owner owes you a $50K drink.
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From: NYC
Re: OT: Test drive '06 GTI and stopped M3 Thieves in their tracks! it's a read... (DubC TL)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by DubC TL »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">Nice work. Glad to see that someone is looking out for others.
</TD></TR></TABLE>
Truth is that the average passer-by may have not noticed a cherry red M3 with factory 19's. But considering we just got 18 inches of snow over the weekend, the spotlessly clean bimmer stood out to me. And seeing a common hood squatting next to it was a major red flag.
As far as the new GTI goes, I have to say that I really like it. Braking and handling is more Audi S3-like than anything previously VW. The OEM euro springs (.6 height reduction) are the only suspension mod I'd do to the GTI. I may trade mine in over the summer once pricing cools down.
I spoke to a guy at APR and he said the 2.0T makes ludicrous gains with just the 93 program dpp. Like 60+hp 70+ft lbs, leaving the engine untouched. Once bolt-on's like CAI and cat-back exhaust hit our shores, that will only increase those hp/tq numbers. I'd imagine a chipped DSG car will be lots of fun, and wickedly fast to the unsuspecting.
</TD></TR></TABLE>
Truth is that the average passer-by may have not noticed a cherry red M3 with factory 19's. But considering we just got 18 inches of snow over the weekend, the spotlessly clean bimmer stood out to me. And seeing a common hood squatting next to it was a major red flag.
As far as the new GTI goes, I have to say that I really like it. Braking and handling is more Audi S3-like than anything previously VW. The OEM euro springs (.6 height reduction) are the only suspension mod I'd do to the GTI. I may trade mine in over the summer once pricing cools down.
I spoke to a guy at APR and he said the 2.0T makes ludicrous gains with just the 93 program dpp. Like 60+hp 70+ft lbs, leaving the engine untouched. Once bolt-on's like CAI and cat-back exhaust hit our shores, that will only increase those hp/tq numbers. I'd imagine a chipped DSG car will be lots of fun, and wickedly fast to the unsuspecting.
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From: I wish I were in..., Osaka, JAPAN
Re: OT: Test drive '06 GTI and stopped M3 Thieves in their tracks! it's a read... (neo_)
Nice one! Them bishes got pwned!
I hope j00 are reading this Len aka Mr. "Nobody will ever try to steal my M3".
I hope j00 are reading this Len aka Mr. "Nobody will ever try to steal my M3".
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From: NYC
Re: OT: Test drive '06 GTI and stopped M3 Thieves in their tracks! it's a read... (AssPenny)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by AssPenny »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">Shitty M3</TD></TR></TABLE>
I don't know about FL, or where Len lives. But M3's, and 4.8is X5's are major theft targets in the tri-state area NJ/NY/CT.
I don't know about FL, or where Len lives. But M3's, and 4.8is X5's are major theft targets in the tri-state area NJ/NY/CT.
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From: Warning, gRand Return imminent,, NY, USA
Re: OT: Test drive '06 GTI and stopped M3 Thieves in their tracks! it's a read... (H-PIMP)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by H-PIMP »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">
I don't know about FL, or where Len lives. But M3's, and 4.8is X5's are major theft targets in the tri-state area NJ/NY/CT.</TD></TR></TABLE>
A friend of mine just got an 05' Competition M stolen from him. That caR replaced his stolen 4.8 X5 lol
I don't know about FL, or where Len lives. But M3's, and 4.8is X5's are major theft targets in the tri-state area NJ/NY/CT.</TD></TR></TABLE>
A friend of mine just got an 05' Competition M stolen from him. That caR replaced his stolen 4.8 X5 lol
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From: Hollywood Babylon
good lookin out
I actually like the new GTI. Saw one last year at Waterfest all hooked up, looked pretty nice. Actually went to a local dealership to test drive one but they didnt have any in yet.
I actually like the new GTI. Saw one last year at Waterfest all hooked up, looked pretty nice. Actually went to a local dealership to test drive one but they didnt have any in yet.
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Re: OT: Test drive '06 GTI and stopped M3 Thieves in their tracks! it's a read... (Opie)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Opie »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">
A friend of mine just got an 05' Competition M stolen from him. That caR replaced his stolen 4.8 X5 lol</TD></TR></TABLE>
Ouch! I'd hate to see his insurance rates.
Opie isn't amazing how you can't own anything nice out here. Even in the places with multi-million dollar homes the stuff happens. Daily driving an M3 or 4.8is means you're a moving target for thieves. Very sad and unfortunately very true.
I saw a bright red competition parked at Cross County movie theater the other day and I was saying to myself ouch! I hope he still has it when he comes out.
A friend of mine just got an 05' Competition M stolen from him. That caR replaced his stolen 4.8 X5 lol</TD></TR></TABLE>
Ouch! I'd hate to see his insurance rates.
Opie isn't amazing how you can't own anything nice out here. Even in the places with multi-million dollar homes the stuff happens. Daily driving an M3 or 4.8is means you're a moving target for thieves. Very sad and unfortunately very true.
I saw a bright red competition parked at Cross County movie theater the other day and I was saying to myself ouch! I hope he still has it when he comes out.
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Re: OT: Test drive '06 GTI and stopped M3 Thieves in their tracks! it's a read... (Eva01)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Eva01 »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">Nice one! Them bishes got pwned!
I hope j00 are reading this Len aka Mr. "Nobody will ever try to steal my M3". </TD></TR></TABLE>
Dood seriously, A Monte Carlo with 24" Spinners, Lots of Base, and two tone paint, with a lift kit has a higher chance of getting stolen than my M3 where I live. I forgot to mention your stinking ITRs also. If they steal my M3 it would be a blessing. I'd get another V8 one later on. Not exactly a F430, but whatever...
I hope j00 are reading this Len aka Mr. "Nobody will ever try to steal my M3".
</TD></TR></TABLE>Dood seriously, A Monte Carlo with 24" Spinners, Lots of Base, and two tone paint, with a lift kit has a higher chance of getting stolen than my M3 where I live. I forgot to mention your stinking ITRs also. If they steal my M3 it would be a blessing. I'd get another V8 one later on.
Not exactly a F430, but whatever...
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From: Warning, gRand Return imminent,, NY, USA
Re: OT: Test drive '06 GTI and stopped M3 Thieves in their tracks! it's a read... (H-PIMP)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by H-PIMP »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">
I saw a bright red competition parked at Cross County movie theater the other day and I was saying to myself ouch! I hope he still has it when he comes out. </TD></TR></TABLE>
I've seen the red ona around too. A friend of mine has a blurple one. It's honestly the most beautiful thing caR I have ever seen.
I saw a bright red competition parked at Cross County movie theater the other day and I was saying to myself ouch! I hope he still has it when he comes out. </TD></TR></TABLE>
I've seen the red ona around too. A friend of mine has a blurple one. It's honestly the most beautiful thing caR I have ever seen.
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Re: OT: Test drive '06 GTI and stopped M3 Thieves in their tracks! it's a read... (len)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by len »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">H-PIMP, I have a job proposition for you. Full time car security? I'll even provide the guns and ammuntion.</TD></TR></TABLE>
Thanks for the offer, I'll keep it in mind
I'll even provide the guns and ammuntion.</TD></TR></TABLE>Thanks for the offer, I'll keep it in mind
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Re: OT: Test drive '06 GTI and stopped M3 Thieves in their tracks! it's a read... (H-PIMP)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by H-PIMP »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">
Ouch! I'd hate to see his insurance rates.
Opie isn't amazing how you can't own anything nice out here. Even in the places with multi-million dollar homes the stuff happens. Daily driving an M3 or 4.8is means you're a moving target for thieves. Very sad and unfortunately very true.
I saw a bright red competition parked at Cross County movie theater the other day and I was saying to myself ouch! I hope he still has it when he comes out. </TD></TR></TABLE>
i dont understand what the thieves do with the M3's...is there really a huge market for chopping up these vehicles?
Ouch! I'd hate to see his insurance rates.
Opie isn't amazing how you can't own anything nice out here. Even in the places with multi-million dollar homes the stuff happens. Daily driving an M3 or 4.8is means you're a moving target for thieves. Very sad and unfortunately very true.
I saw a bright red competition parked at Cross County movie theater the other day and I was saying to myself ouch! I hope he still has it when he comes out. </TD></TR></TABLE>
i dont understand what the thieves do with the M3's...is there really a huge market for chopping up these vehicles?
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From: Fairbanks
Re: OT: Test drive '06 GTI and stopped M3 Thieves in their tracks! it's a read... (uNF$@#!)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by uNF$@#! »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">
i dont understand what the thieves do with the M3's...is there really a huge market for chopping up these vehicles?</TD></TR></TABLE>
They ship it overseas & sell 'em for $$$.
i dont understand what the thieves do with the M3's...is there really a huge market for chopping up these vehicles?</TD></TR></TABLE>
They ship it overseas & sell 'em for $$$.
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Re: OT: Test drive '06 GTI and stopped M3 Thieves in their tracks! it's a read... (len)
Len, i think u posted ur M3 sometime back. White with the CSL kit. If thats yours, you have the most beautiful car i've ever seen. Its been my wallpaper on my comp for a while.....just gorgeous. I thought BMWs were hard to steal?
