WRX test-drive vs. A4TQ

[Dan Sinclair]

Finally took a WRX for a test drive against my better judgment.  I was
certain that after driving my heavy 165HP Coupe Quattro for a couple years,
the WRX was going to feel like a rocket.  But much to my surprise, it really
didn't...  The WRX felt very solid, rode great, and it certainly has solid
acceleration, but it's not what I expected.  It's all very linear and
deceptive.  You get up to speed quite quickly, but the boost is controlled
and smooth, making the car feel powerful, but not exceptionally snappy.  I
expected with a 70+ HP advantage over '97-'99 A4TQ, there would be a
substantial seat-of-the-pants difference, and really, I didn't feel it.  I
drove a stock '99 A4TQ just a few days ago, and it felt easily as quick as
the WRX.  Months ago I drove a Garrett chipped '99.5 A4TQ, and from my
recollection, I'd say it felt faster than the WRX.  Obviously the numbers
will tell you that the engines are setup very differently - the A4 1.8T's
peak torque delivery at less than 2000 RPM is going to create a different
feel than the Subaru's 217lbs. maxing out at 4000 RPM - but of the two, I'd
have to favor the Audi setup based on first impressions.

All of this is subjective of course, but just some food for thought for
those normally aspirated folk who, like myself, feel like everyone on the
road seems to have a quicker ride...

Dan Sinclair
1990 CQ