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Auto Talk => The Mainstream Room => Topic started by: VTEC_Inside on August 24, 2009, 04:50:29 PM

Title: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: VTEC_Inside on August 24, 2009, 04:50:29 PM
I think the pillow that came with his '05 Highlander has gotten a little lumpy as he has been looking around for something more fun.

Was about to post pics, but just realized they are on my other computer.

For now I'll just say that its used, has 300hp, and a proper 6spd manual transmission. I can't say I'm a fan of the turbo lag, but its much better than the psychotic BSR version we drove.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Vinsanity on August 24, 2009, 04:57:01 PM
Awesome, an S60R was among one of my first choices last time I was in the market. Unfortunately, it was tricky at the time finding a good one at the price I wanted.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Submariner on August 24, 2009, 05:04:12 PM
Nice!  :ohyeah:
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: CJ on August 24, 2009, 05:23:00 PM
S60R or V70R?
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: VTEC_Inside on August 24, 2009, 05:39:06 PM
Quote from: CJ on August 24, 2009, 05:23:00 PM
S60R or V70R?

He was looking for a V70R, but finding a 6spd was a bit tough. I told him to keep trying because then he could have just sold the damn Highlander.

Alas, he should have his S60R later this week, and hes going to keep the Highlander for now.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: VTEC_Inside on August 24, 2009, 05:41:26 PM
Since I know practically nothing about Volvos, is there anything that he should be aware of with this thing?

Anyone else ever drive one of the BSR "chipped" ones? I didn't know what the BSR badge was for until after we drove that one. That car would surprise a LOT of would be racers. I didn't like it at all from a driveability standpoint though. The throttle response (or lack there of) wasn't my cup of tea. I actually tried to convince him to get something else that was naturally aspirated after that drive.

The stock version he is getting is a lot better in that regard. Still some lag, but not as abrupt as the BSR and the throttle response is better. Overall its more balanced.

I wonder how the IPD "chip" would compare as they claim to make a more streetable tune.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: S204STi on August 24, 2009, 05:52:19 PM
BSR may be a turbo swap, which would explain the poor drive-ability. A chipped tune is nice because you maintain or improve on the bottom end power while adding mid-range and top end power.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Tave on August 24, 2009, 07:13:02 PM
Volvos in general don't have the most agressive throttle-mapping. That's been my experience with them, and that's what I've read about the S60R.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: CJ on August 24, 2009, 07:22:52 PM
Not much to be aware of, to be honest.  The 4C system can be troublesome, but that's only on the early cars. 
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: VTEC_Inside on August 24, 2009, 07:33:46 PM
Quote from: Tave on August 24, 2009, 07:13:02 PM
Volvos in general don't have the most agressive throttle-mapping. That's been my experience with them, and that's what I've read about the S60R.

Well the BSR car had really poor throttle response IMO. I think it was intentional because when that sucker spooled up it was a friggin rocket ship.

The stock throttle is still a little lazy, but tolerable, I didn't have much trouble settling into a good rhythm in that one.

Still I'm used to being able to flex my big toe and blip 5000rpm on downshifts, I really had to put my foot into it to get the S60R to rev.

Already figured out the timing of pushing the button to shut the DSTC(?) completely off. :)

As for the suspension settings:
- Comfort is too plush
- Sport is decent
- Advanced is a bit much even for me

I'd say my RSX falls between Sport and Advanced in terms of ride quality. 


Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: VTEC_Inside on August 24, 2009, 07:34:22 PM
Quote from: CJ on August 24, 2009, 07:22:52 PM
Not much to be aware of, to be honest.  The 4C system can be troublesome, but that's only on the early cars. 

He bought an '06 so I guess he's in the clear.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: VTEC_Inside on August 24, 2009, 11:38:20 PM
(http://www.ferfolia.net/james/forumpics/s60r.jpg)
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: 68_427 on August 24, 2009, 11:50:40 PM
Hot damn.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Cookie Monster on August 24, 2009, 11:54:12 PM
Love the color.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: CALL_911 on August 24, 2009, 11:57:27 PM
Quote from: thecarnut on August 24, 2009, 11:54:12 PM
Love the color.

+1
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: mzziaz on August 25, 2009, 04:32:44 AM
Nice car  :ohyeah:
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: cawimmer430 on August 25, 2009, 05:16:00 AM
I always thought the VTECs were an Acura/Honda family. Your dad should have bought a ZDX!  :thumbsup:


Nice ride.  :ohyeah:
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Raza on August 25, 2009, 06:53:04 AM
I'm envious. 
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: VTEC_Inside on August 25, 2009, 11:36:22 AM
Quote from: thecarnut on August 24, 2009, 11:54:12 PM
Love the color.

Apparently the color combo with the darker tan interior wasn't going over so well with other people... I kinda like it.

The gunmetal colored wheels were also optional and make a big difference IMO.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: VTEC_Inside on August 25, 2009, 11:41:54 AM
Quote from: cawimmer430 on August 25, 2009, 05:16:00 AM
I always thought the VTECs were an Acura/Honda family. Your dad should have bought a ZDX!  :thumbsup:


Nice ride.  :ohyeah:

My mom and dad both aim Toyotas at the moment. '05 Corolla and '05 Highlander respectively.

There is still an '08 Accord, '08 Civic, '98 Odyssey, '96 Integra in the immediate family though.

ZDX? Psht, I don't know who the hell is going to buy that thing. He looked at an MDX, but a) would have to wait a while before the new ones roll in (6spd auto and other upgrades) and b) they are getting up there in $$$...

This S60R is in mint shape and hes buying it for less than half what it sold for 3yrs ago.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Raza on August 25, 2009, 12:11:41 PM
Looks awesome.  I wish those wheels fit on my car.  Stupid Swedish bolt patterns!  :rage:

I wanted an S60R when I bought my car, but they were too damn expensive to finance, and I couldn't afford them outright. 

Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: omicron on August 25, 2009, 12:44:31 PM
What a handsome car.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: AutobahnSHO on August 25, 2009, 05:09:39 PM
Quote from: 68_427 on August 24, 2009, 11:50:40 PM
Hot damn.

:hesaid:

that rawks.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Madman on August 26, 2009, 06:20:34 AM
Quote from: VTEC_Inside on August 24, 2009, 11:38:20 PM
(http://www.ferfolia.net/james/forumpics/s60r.jpg)


Oooooooh, you lucky bastard!  That car is sex on wheels!  :wub:

So, let me get this straight.  Your dad has been driving tin box pieces of mediocrity like the Corolla and Highlander.  Suddenly he woke up, saw the light and bought a decent car?  Hey, better late than never!


Cheers,
Madman of the People
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Madman on August 26, 2009, 06:23:08 AM
BTW, why is this thread in the Mainstream Room?  Surely this 300 horsepower SuperSwede belongs in either Luxury Talk or The Fast Lane?


Cheers,
Madman of the People
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: cawimmer430 on August 26, 2009, 07:31:03 AM
Quote from: Madman on August 26, 2009, 06:23:08 AM
BTW, why is this thread in the Mainstream Room?  Surely this 300 horsepower SuperSwede belongs in either Luxury Talk or The Fast Lane?


Cheers,
Madman of the People



DUDE!!! A V6 Camry has over 300-horsepower too!!!  :wtf:
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: cawimmer430 on August 26, 2009, 07:32:40 AM
Quote from: VTEC_Inside on August 25, 2009, 11:41:54 AM
My mom and dad both aim Toyotas at the moment. '05 Corolla and '05 Highlander respectively.

I hope they drink a lot of coffee.  :thumbsup:



Quote from: VTEC_Inside on August 25, 2009, 11:41:54 AMZDX? Psht, I don't know who the hell is going to buy that thing. He looked at an MDX, but a) would have to wait a while before the new ones roll in (6spd auto and other upgrades) and b) they are getting up there in $$$...

Yeah that thing looks awful in the photos. That new Acura grille beak...it just looks terrible on that thing. I think it looks "ok" on some of their sedans but the ZDX is the new Japanese Aztek IMO. Makes the X6 looks pretty!  :confused:

Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: sportyaccordy on August 26, 2009, 07:46:34 AM
First off nice ride

Second and more importantly though I want to know the train of thought that went from Highlander to S60R. Was your dad a car guy in a past life? That is awesome.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Laconian on August 26, 2009, 10:15:02 AM
Quote from: cawimmer430 on August 26, 2009, 07:31:03 AM

DUDE!!! A V6 Camry has over 300-horsepower too!!!  :wtf:

Yeah, why isn't that in Luxury talk either?
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: VTEC_Inside on August 26, 2009, 11:07:07 AM
Quote from: sportyaccordy on August 26, 2009, 07:46:34 AM
First off nice ride

Second and more importantly though I want to know the train of thought that went from Highlander to S60R. Was your dad a car guy in a past life? That is awesome.

Well here is his car history as far back as I can remember: (All automatics)
-1978 Oldsmobile something
-1982 Buick Regal 4.4L V8
-1987 Accord LX
-1990 Accord EX-R
-1994 Accord EX-R (1st Accord with VTAk!!!!)
-1996 Accord EX-R V6
-2002 Accord EX V6
-2003 Highlander Limited
-2005 Highlander Limited (Just had to have the new engine and 5spd auto)

The Accords may not have been sports cars, but I think its safe to say that they were all kinda fun to drive. I can't remember what prompted the move to the Highlander, but he does use the cargo space quite often.

The whole Volvo thing started after he drove a lady friends V70R. That car had enough cargo room to be useful to him and was far more entertaining to drive. He kept going on about how quickly it picks up speed, etc... Every time he'd say something like that I'd say, I know, pointing out that my RSX-S is probably not much slower than that auto wagon.

So he started looking for V70R 6spd wagons. I don't think we ever did find one. Then he started rationalizing the S60R, he'd just keep the Highlander too :facepalm:

That as they say, is that...
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Pommes-T on August 26, 2009, 11:25:42 AM
Damn nice car. Love the colour and the fact that it's a 300 hp Volvo!  :partyon:
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: cawimmer430 on August 26, 2009, 11:43:15 AM
Quote from: Laconian on August 26, 2009, 10:15:02 AM
Yeah, why isn't that in Luxury talk either?

Because 99% of Carspin are such Toyota haters that way! Toyota competes with Mercedes and Lexus competes with Bentley and Rolls Royce. Everyone knows that.  :hammerhead:
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Madman on August 26, 2009, 07:28:14 PM
Quote from: cawimmer430 on August 26, 2009, 07:31:03 AM

DUDE!!! A V6 Camry has over 300-horsepower too!!!  :wtf:



Not to sound pedantic, but the current Camry V6 only has 268 horsepower.  It also doesn't have all wheel drive and a host of other features the S60R has.  Also, Volvo is regarded as a premium brand.  Therefore, this thread belongs in either Luxury Talk or Fast Lane.  An S60R is certainly not "Mainstream" by any stretch of the imagination!


Cheers,
Madman of the People
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: CJ on August 26, 2009, 07:39:13 PM
Your dad now owns one of my dream cars, though I'd rather have a V70R.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: VTEC_Inside on August 26, 2009, 08:11:06 PM
Quote from: CJ on August 26, 2009, 07:39:13 PM
Your dad now owns one of my dream cars, though I'd rather have a V70R.

So would have he, alas the stick shift thing.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: CJ on August 26, 2009, 08:15:02 PM
Of course.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: cawimmer430 on August 27, 2009, 03:41:18 AM
Quote from: Madman on August 26, 2009, 07:28:14 PM

Not to sound pedantic, but the current Camry V6 only has 268 horsepower.  It also doesn't have all wheel drive and a host of other features the S60R has.  Also, Volvo is regarded as a premium brand.  Therefore, this thread belongs in either Luxury Talk or Fast Lane.  An S60R is certainly not "Mainstream" by any stretch of the imagination!


Cheers,
Madman of the People



The current V6 Camry only has 268-horsepower? Even the top of the line Passat has less horsepower than that (3.2 V6 with 250-hp). The only Passat which has more horsepower than the V6 Camry is the R36 which has 300-horsepower - and you don't see any of them around (much less the normal 3.2 V6 version).

Why does the typical boring mainstream family in America need such a powerful Camry?  :huh:
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: The Pirate on August 27, 2009, 10:46:48 AM
Quote from: cawimmer430 on August 27, 2009, 03:41:18 AM

The current V6 Camry only has 268-horsepower? Even the top of the line Passat has less horsepower than that (3.2 V6 with 250-hp). The only Passat which has more horsepower than the V6 Camry is the R36 which has 300-horsepower - and you don't see any of them around (much less the normal 3.2 V6 version).

Why does the typical boring mainstream family in America need such a powerful Camry?  :huh:

We like our power.  As mentioned before, it's a different market than Europe.  Wider roads, generally longer commutes, etc.  Fuel is still relatively cheap here, and we like our engines big.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: nickdrinkwater on August 27, 2009, 10:47:16 AM
Quote from: cawimmer430 on August 27, 2009, 03:41:18 AM

The current V6 Camry only has 268-horsepower? Even the top of the line Passat has less horsepower than that (3.2 V6 with 250-hp). The only Passat which has more horsepower than the V6 Camry is the R36 which has 300-horsepower - and you don't see any of them around (much less the normal 3.2 V6 version).

Why does the typical boring mainstream family in America need such a powerful Camry?  :huh:

I think the US Passat comes with a 3.6 litre V6, I recall seeing a few.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: The Pirate on August 27, 2009, 10:49:47 AM
Quote from: nickdrinkwater on August 27, 2009, 10:47:16 AM
I think the US Passat comes with a 3.6 litre V6, I recall seeing a few.

Yes, I forgot about that.  It has 276 hp, I think.  So, just a bit more than the Camry. 
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: 93JC on August 27, 2009, 10:55:52 AM
Quote from: cawimmer430 on August 27, 2009, 03:41:18 AM
Why does the typical boring mainstream family in America need such a powerful Camry?  :huh:

It's not about need. It's about what people want and can afford.

Europeans can't afford big engines, in general, because of the costs associated with fuel and taxes. North Americans are limited by fuel prices to a much lesser extent, and are not limited by taxes whatsoever.

Trust me: if you guys ditched your taxes and fuel was as inexpensive over there as it is over here, you'd all be driving 268 hp Camrys too.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: CALL_911 on August 27, 2009, 10:56:24 AM
The 3.6 is only in the CC, now. It's no longer in the regular Passat. It has 280 hp.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Vinsanity on August 27, 2009, 12:14:53 PM
Quote from: CALL_911 on August 27, 2009, 10:56:24 AM
The 3.6 is only in the CC, now. It's no longer in the regular Passat. It has 280 hp.

holy shit, $28 grand for a 2.0T and no other engine options? :facepalm:
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Raza on August 27, 2009, 12:21:06 PM
Quote from: Vinsanity on August 27, 2009, 12:14:53 PM
holy shit, $28 grand for a 2.0T and no other engine options? :facepalm:

The current Passat is being phased out and completely replaced by the CC until the USM Passat comes out.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: CALL_911 on August 27, 2009, 12:24:42 PM
Quote from: Vinsanity on August 27, 2009, 12:14:53 PM
holy shit, $28 grand for a 2.0T and no other engine options? :facepalm:

2.0T FTW
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: nickdrinkwater on August 27, 2009, 01:29:39 PM
I think it'd be cool to have a Passat 3.6.  I've driven my dad's 1.9 TDI PD and it's nippy enough for mid-range acceleration.  So the 3.6 would absolutely fly!  And like 'JC says, it's matter of affordability.  If I could have a Passat 3.6 for the price of a 1.9 TDI, damn sure I would.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: ifcar on August 27, 2009, 02:34:13 PM
Quote from: 93JC on August 27, 2009, 10:55:52 AM
It's not about need. It's about what people want and can afford.

Europeans can't afford big engines, in general, because of the costs associated with fuel and taxes. North Americans are limited by fuel prices to a much lesser extent, and are not limited by taxes whatsoever.

Trust me: if you guys ditched your taxes and fuel was as inexpensive over there as it is over here, you'd all be driving 268 hp Camrys too.

There are other variables. There's less suburban sprawl in Europe, which is what Camrys are made for. They're not great city cars; not compact or agile enough.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Madman on August 27, 2009, 09:10:35 PM
Quote from: Raza  on August 27, 2009, 12:21:06 PM
The current Passat is being phased out and completely replaced by the CC until the USM Passat comes out.


Really?  That sucks!  Bad move, Volkswagen!  If I wanted an "American" car, I'd buy a Chevy.  Keep your Americanised Volkswagens and give me the real thing.  Looks like when it comes time the replace the Volvos, I WON'T be looking at VWs.

Cheers,
Madman of the People
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Vinsanity on August 28, 2009, 03:27:25 PM
Quote from: Madman on August 27, 2009, 09:10:35 PM

Really?  That sucks!  Bad move, Volkswagen!  If I wanted an "American" car, I'd buy a Chevy.  Keep your Americanised Volkswagens and give me the real thing.  Looks like when it comes time the replace the Volvos, I WON'T be looking at VWs.

Cheers,
Madman of the People


do you know something about this upcoming American Passat that everyone else doesn't?
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Raza on August 28, 2009, 03:31:53 PM
Quote from: Vinsanity on August 28, 2009, 03:27:25 PM
do you know something about this upcoming American Passat that everyone else doesn't?

He's making an assumption, and it's a pretty valid one.  The Passat and Jetta will become locally produced and marketed, and will likely be a bad thing for enthusiasts and a good thing for sales.  Looking at the cars that dominate the sales charts, it's a short jump to surmise that the new cars will fell less European. 

I'm hoping he's wrong, but until it's proven otherwise, an A6 Jetta is probably not on my list of possible replacements for my A5 when the time comes. 

Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: ifcar on August 28, 2009, 03:35:07 PM
Quote from: Raza  on August 28, 2009, 03:31:53 PM
He's making an assumption, and it's a pretty valid one.  The Passat and Jetta will become locally produced and marketed, and will likely be a bad thing for enthusiasts and a good thing for sales.  Looking at the cars that dominate the sales charts, it's a short jump to surmise that the new cars will fell less European. 

I'm hoping he's wrong, but until it's proven otherwise, an A6 Jetta is probably not on my list of possible replacements for my A5 when the time comes. 



Meh. It's not as if either the current Passat or most Jetta versions are top fun choices either. The Jetta 2.5 is a snooze and the Passat is too expensive.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Raza on August 28, 2009, 03:38:18 PM
Quote from: ifcar on August 28, 2009, 03:35:07 PM
Meh. It's not as if either the current Passat or most Jetta versions are top fun choices either. The Jetta 2.5 is a snooze and the Passat is too expensive.

I disagree about the Jetta 2.5.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Galaxy on August 28, 2009, 04:57:18 PM
There is an interview in the current AMS with VW head of R&D Ulrich Hackenberg. About the future product placement he said:  The Passat will Still remain a Passat. Tailored towards the American market will be the New Compact Sedan (Jetta replacement) and the New Midsize Sedan. The NMS especially will be americanised with a softer suspension, cupholders in all shapes and sizes etc. All three cars will share the Modular Transverse Component system, along with the next Golf, Polo, A3, etc, etc. The MTCS is really amazing in it?s flexability. They can change the length, width, height, wheel base, and wheel track and yet still have over 60% common components.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: ifcar on August 28, 2009, 05:06:44 PM
Quote from: Raza  on August 28, 2009, 03:38:18 PM
I disagree about the Jetta 2.5.

Do you think enthusiasts actually buy it though, whether you personally like it or not?
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Galaxy on August 28, 2009, 05:42:45 PM
It should be noted that the often criticised 2.5 Jetta engine forms the bases for the Audi TT-RS.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: ifcar on August 28, 2009, 05:44:32 PM
Quote from: Galaxy on August 28, 2009, 05:42:45 PM
It should be noted that the often criticised 2.5 Jetta engine forms the bases for the Audi TT-RS.

It's not just the engine. The base Jetta in general just isn't an enthusiast-mobile.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: 2o6 on August 28, 2009, 08:14:43 PM
Quote from: ifcar on August 27, 2009, 02:34:13 PM
There are other variables. There's less suburban sprawl in Europe, which is what Camrys are made for. They're not great city cars; not compact or agile enough.



Is that an aside? I'm having trouble as to how it relates to the topic 93JC or Wimmer was making.


Yeah, the city car and subcompact market is large and fierce, and the C-segment range is a big one, but europe does make large cars, though.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Raza on August 28, 2009, 09:25:35 PM
Quote from: ifcar on August 28, 2009, 05:06:44 PM
Do you think enthusiasts actually buy it though, whether you personally like it or not?

Not as many in the base Jetta, no.  But I know plenty who buy the basically identical Rabbit 2.5.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: ifcar on August 29, 2009, 04:13:46 AM
Quote from: 2o6 on August 28, 2009, 08:14:43 PM


Is that an aside? I'm having trouble as to how it relates to the topic 93JC or Wimmer was making.

Was I talking to either 93JC or Wimmer?
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: ifcar on August 29, 2009, 04:14:48 AM
Quote from: Raza  on August 28, 2009, 09:25:35 PM
Not as many in the base Jetta, no.  But I know plenty who buy the basically identical Rabbit 2.5.

Is VW replacing both the Golf and the Jetta with a new US car, or will the Golf continue? If the latter, there would be no problem from the enthusiast perspective, except from those who hate hatchbacks.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: cozmik on August 29, 2009, 08:40:26 PM
Since it looks like it hasn't been addressed yet, the BSR badge would represent it being chipped. BSR is a Swedish tuning company, no straight turbo swaps, but they do intakes, exhausts, and programming. They do a lot with Saabs, Volvos, and VW group FI engines.

And congrats to your father! I drove an S60R once, and it was a pretty cool car!
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Madman on August 29, 2009, 10:38:59 PM
Quote from: Vinsanity on August 28, 2009, 03:27:25 PM
do you know something about this upcoming American Passat that everyone else doesn't?

Quote from: Raza  on August 28, 2009, 03:31:53 PM
He's making an assumption, and it's a pretty valid one.  The Passat and Jetta will become locally produced and marketed, and will likely be a bad thing for enthusiasts and a good thing for sales.  Looking at the cars that dominate the sales charts, it's a short jump to surmise that the new cars will fell less European. 

I'm hoping he's wrong, but until it's proven otherwise, an A6 Jetta is probably not on my list of possible replacements for my A5 when the time comes. 


I hope I'm wrong, too.  But somehow I don't think I am.  I have NEVER EVER seen an Americanised car that was better than the European model it was based on.  Softer suspension, numb steering, dulled handling responses, more inefficient engines and cupholders mounted onto every available surface do nothing to enhance a car and everything to detract from it.


Quote from: Galaxy on August 28, 2009, 04:57:18 PM
There is an interview in the current AMS with VW head of R&D Ulrich Hackenberg. About the future product placement he said:  The Passat will Still remain a Passat. Tailored towards the American market will be the New Compact Sedan (Jetta replacement) and the New Midsize Sedan. The NMS especially will be americanised with a softer suspension, cupholders in all shapes and sizes etc. All three cars will share the Modular Transverse Component system, along with the next Golf, Polo, A3, etc, etc. The MTCS is really amazing in it?s flexability. They can change the length, width, height, wheel base, and wheel track and yet still have over 60% common components.


So this means we'll still get the real Passat PLUS an Americanised barge?  As long as we still get the proper Passat, then I can't complain too much.  I can always pretend the VW Ameri-barge doesn't exist, just like I already do with that horrible abomination known as the VW Routan!


Quote from: Galaxy on August 28, 2009, 05:42:45 PM
It should be noted that the often criticised 2.5 Jetta engine forms the bases for the Audi TT-RS.

Yes, the design is based on the 2.5 Jetta engine, but the whole thing has been thoroughly re-engineered.  The TT RS engine blocks are recast in vermicular graphite iron for strength and lightness.  This material was originally used in large capacity diesels but this is the first time it's ever been used in a road-going gasoline engine.  Audi experimented with this material in gasoline racing engines before putting it in production for the TT RS.  Audi then fitted the engine with lightweight aluminium internals.  The RS engine also features direct injection and a big honkin' turbo!  Audi calls it TFSI (Turbocharged Fuel-Stratified Injection) and it's the same technology that powered Audi to five wins at LeMans.  All these extensive changes gives the TT RS 335 horsepower and 332 lb.ft. of torque.  At the end of the day, the TT RS engine has about as much in common with the Jetta 2.5 engine as I have in common with a cocker spaniel!


Cheers,
Madman of the People
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Raza on August 30, 2009, 10:22:49 AM
Quote from: ifcar on August 29, 2009, 04:14:48 AM
Is VW replacing both the Golf and the Jetta with a new US car, or will the Golf continue? If the latter, there would be no problem from the enthusiast perspective, except from those who hate hatchbacks.

I believe the Golf VI, which will be called the Golf again, will remain on the world platform. 
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: ifcar on August 30, 2009, 10:38:24 AM
Quote from: Raza  on August 30, 2009, 10:22:49 AM
I believe the Golf VI, which will be called the Golf again, will remain on the world platform. 

So Americans who like European-driving cars can still buy the hatchback, and the sedan-loving masses can buy an Americanized sedan. What's the problem?
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: dazzleman on August 30, 2009, 10:53:40 AM
When a friend of mine bought a Volvo, I gave him crap by saying that Volvo is a car a guy buys when his wife is carrying his balls around in her pocketbook.  He admitted he really wanted a BMW.

Having said that, I don't mind the Volvo at all.  My favorite SUV is the Volvo.  They have a good feel to the way they drive, generally.  They emphasize safety over fun driving because of their image, but they can be a fun car to drive.  And if you take care of them well, they'll go forever.

VTEC, is you dad as big a speed demon as you are?
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: VTEC_Inside on August 30, 2009, 11:03:16 AM
Quote from: dazzleman on August 30, 2009, 10:53:40 AM
VTEC, is you dad as big a speed demon as you are?

How much of one could he be driving a friggin Highlander? I think the last time he got pulled over was in the '96 Accord doing like 162kph on the highway though...  :devil:

I'll be sure and report when he gets his first ticket in this thing though. He picked it up yesterday morning and so far nothing.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: dazzleman on August 30, 2009, 11:14:34 AM
Quote from: VTEC_Inside on August 30, 2009, 11:03:16 AM
How much of one could he be driving a friggin Highlander? I think the last time he got pulled over was in the '96 Accord doing like 162kph on the highway though...  :devil:

I'll be sure and report when he gets his first ticket in this thing though. He picked it up yesterday morning and so far nothing.

Give him a little time...... :lol:

Has he let you drive it yet?  Volvo can be pretty fun to drive.  My mom's friend had a Volvo back in the '70s and she let me drive it when I had my learner's permit.  Volvo was a pioneer of the new type of drivability that became so popular -- tight, rack and pinion steer, harder seats, tighter suspension, etc.  Up to that point, the only cars available for me to drive were the typical American cars that drove like boats.  The Volvo was a real treat to drive, and I've always favored that type of driveability ever since.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: VTEC_Inside on August 30, 2009, 11:28:01 AM
Quote from: dazzleman on August 30, 2009, 11:14:34 AM
Give him a little time...... :lol:

Has he let you drive it yet?  Volvo can be pretty fun to drive.  My mom's friend had a Volvo back in the '70s and she let me drive it when I had my learner's permit.  Volvo was a pioneer of the new type of drivability that became so popular -- tight, rack and pinion steer, harder seats, tighter suspension, etc.  Up to that point, the only cars available for me to drive were the typical American cars that drove like boats.  The Volvo was a real treat to drive, and I've always favored that type of driveability ever since.

I drove it before he did :) He misplaced his drivers license so they wouldn't let him drive it, lol...

The sales guy ended up letting him drive it anyway, but we didn't really go anywhere where you could let it rip so....
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: dazzleman on August 30, 2009, 01:14:28 PM
Quote from: VTEC_Inside on August 30, 2009, 11:28:01 AM
I drove it before he did :) He misplaced his drivers license so they wouldn't let him drive it, lol...

The sales guy ended up letting him drive it anyway, but we didn't really go anywhere where you could let it rip so....

I'm surprised either one of you still has a license..... :lol:

When you were a kid learning to drive, did he ever give you the "don't drive too fast" speech?

Seriously though, I could wrack up a few speeding tickets with a Volvo.  They drive pretty tightly and that inspires me to go faster.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: SVT_Power on August 30, 2009, 09:46:25 PM
get this badge!!!

(http://www.contour.org/img/r1.JPG)
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: CJ on August 30, 2009, 10:10:02 PM
www.davebarton.com


I'm ordering mine Friday.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Raza on August 31, 2009, 07:33:39 AM
Quote from: ifcar on August 30, 2009, 10:38:24 AM
So Americans who like European-driving cars can still buy the hatchback, and the sedan-loving masses can buy an Americanized sedan. What's the problem?

Some people like driving European-driving sedans.

Anyway, the Jetta has been such a great success on the Golf platform, why bother changing it?

Less choice is bad, Koko.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: ifcar on August 31, 2009, 08:28:38 AM
Quote from: Raza  on August 31, 2009, 07:33:39 AM
Some people like driving European-driving sedans.

Anyway, the Jetta has been such a great success on the Golf platform, why bother changing it?

Less choice is bad, Koko.

I doubt the number of people who would buy the Jetta as-is but not the Golf is enough to sustain a model line.
Title: Re: My dad bought a... Volvo?
Post by: Raza on August 31, 2009, 08:31:03 AM
Quote from: ifcar on August 31, 2009, 08:28:38 AM
I doubt the number of people who would buy the Jetta as-is but not the Golf is enough to sustain a model line.

I'll give you that one.