Re: quattro vs. Syncro??

[Jim Griffin <JGriff@pobox.com>]

Iain Mannix wrote:

> What exactly are the differences between the quattro and Syncro systems?
> More specifically, the 4kq and VW qsw

As far as the driveline (i.e. quattro system)... nothing. Same locking center
and rear diff capability.

The rear suspension in the QSW is different. It has shocks, as opposed to
struts, and it is not adjustable.

Also, the rear brakes are unique to the QSW.

> - I just saw something in the Audi newsgroup claiming that "old Syncro"
> is/was not as desirable for high performance driving as quattro - any
> insights?

Well, my QSW handles very well for bone-stock. It is a bit floaty, and leans
too much under hard cornering (as expected from hydraulic shocks front and
rear)... but it sticks!! And, like the 4kq, it has great steering feel.

As for high-performance driving... yeah, the 4kq probably is better, since more
aftermarket parts are available (struts and springs etc.), and the 4kq has a
lower ride height and lower center of gravity.

So far, from what I've researched, and what I've heard from others, not much,
if anything, is available for "better" shocks/struts and springs for the QSW.
I'm still looking... but I doubt I'll find much.

I plan on putting 15x7 rims with 205/50/15s on sometime in the near future (if
the checkbook allows...). That will certainly help, but it is still gonna' lean
more than I'd like. Oh well.... I'll find out for sure next month... when I
autocross it, and this summer, when I take it to Watkins Glen (and maybe Lime
Rock too...).

>  I have been told many different things - some say it is the same, some say
> the rear suspension is
> different but otherwise the same, and somewhere down the line I got the idea
> that they were somehow different.  Insights?  Thanks!

See above. Hope that helps.

If you are thinking of getting a QSW, don't shy away from it. It has quattro
and that distinctive (sounding) 5 cylinder, plenty of room (especially
headroom... compared to a 4kq), MUCH MORE trunk space, and it is very stealth
(what cop is going to pull over a 10 year old VW wagon??). I'm happy with mine
so far...

One drawback: it is not a babe-magnet, that's for sure!! (I guess that's why I
also still have my 100S!!)

--
                             Jim Griffin
                         JGriff@pobox.com
                    http://pobox.com/~jgriff
                          Maryland, USA
    "Perception is often stronger than reality!"
                        '92 Audi 100S
                   '87 VW Quantum Syncro
 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~OOOO~~~~~~~~~~~~~~