Originally posted by john9001
only the GERMANS can build REAL cars, every thing else is crap. dutchland forever.
Agreed!
I've just ordered a new Audi A3 quattro in lava grey with the sport pack (17" wheels, lowered suspension etc) I tried two - one had the DSG gearbox - a real stonker! But - the 4wd quattro is not available with DSG
On paper, the petrol versions are much faster than the diesels. On the road, it's not that simple. Everyone ogles the "max power" figure in favour of the arguable more important (for normal driving) max torque.
In order to achieve the best acceleration figures, the testers will rev the engine to max power - some 6200rpm in the petrol model, and then release the clutch - I believe funked calls this a "clutch dump". At 6200rpm, there would be enormous torque at the flywheel. But the record breaking acceleration attempt would be assisted by another important factor - the kinetic energy stored up in the flywheel. Obviously diesels are at a disadvantage here, as at
their max power of ~4000rpm, there would be much less kinetic energy stored in the flywheel immediately prior to the "clutch dump".
In the real world, folks don't do 6000rpm clutch dumps. Driving like that, it won't be long before something breaks...
So I'm sticking with diesel - the new engine offers 236ft lb torque from 1750rpm. I know there are more powerful cars around, but you're going to pay more - 1)capital cost; 2)fuel cost; 3)insurance; 4)insurance company mandated tracker device; 5)depreciation.
