[urq] Re: [Biturbos4] Acura RL

[John Koenig]

Couldn't agree more with your three points.  As for awd alternatives, we're
getting into a weird area.  As even non-enthusiasts becomes more aware of
awd, there are all kinds of names, marketing spin (was it Infiniti with the
ad about the disadvantages of awd on dry roads?), and misunderstandings.

My sense is that it's still worth discriminating between real full-time
systems (a la "ur" quattro) and on-demand systems using electronic clutches,
viscous couplings, etc.  Even I'm not up on the details of the Volvo, but my
guess is that this difference is the basis of it not feeling as "planted" as
a non-Haldex quattro.  I would still argue that there are dynamic advantages
to real awd on dry roads that you don't get with an on-demand system.

That said, people rave about the R32, and the Maxda is bound to be
interesting.  I'm guessing that an S4 fan might not be happy with the
Subarus or the Mitsu.  As you said, performance AND luxury.

Like they say, my two cents worth!

John

P.S.  Passat 4Motion?


----- Original Message -----
From: Quincy Chiang <b5quattro at shaw.ca>
Subject: Re: [Biturbos4] Acura RL


> Despite it's rather corny sounding name, I read that it's actually quite a
clever AWD system.  I think this car should sell quite well, but I won't be
knocking on their door anytime soon for the following reasons:
>
> 1. No manual, slushbox only
> 2. too big, I prefer smaller more nimble cars
> 3. Styling is nice but too generic
>
> If you're looking for an alternative to the S4, here're a few...
>
> - Audi A3 (perhaps the new S3 will come to North America at last?)
> - VW Golf R32
> - Volvo S60R (drove one, very clever suspension, nicely done inside and
out, but it doesn't feel as fast as out 250hp S4, and the AWD somehow
doesn't feel as planted as quattro)
> - Subaru legacy GT
> - Mazdaspeed 6 (coming out next year, 2.3L turbo AWD)
> - Subaru STi
> - Mitsubishi Evo
>
> That's about it I think, as you can see, not a whole lot to choose from,
especially now that you've been spoiled by the performance AND luxury of our
S4 ;-)
>
> Quincy