Re: 1996 V6 updates?

[Elliott Potter <epotter@abraxis.com>]

Chris Newbold wrote:
> 
> Elliott Potter wrote:
> 
> > I was reading a review of the 1996 Cabriolet, and it says that "for
> > 1996, the Cabriolet's engine responds to throttle inputs better due to a
> > new throttle linkage and revised transmission software."  Does anyone
> > have details on this?  Especially the updated throttle linkage?
> 
> I don't know much, but here's what I've gathered: it's a cheap trick.
 
Of course, what else?  :)

> The "original" V6 throttle linkage was very linear, with a long travel.
> Once you get used to it, it's great: very precise throttle control,
> easy cruising (i.e. it's not touchy), wonderful in high speed corners
> to control the line.

Well it's reasonably precise, but the auto trans negates some of that. 
It is easy to use, though, even if it feels a little limp.

> However, it gave most Americans the impression that the motor was dead,
> especially with an automatic. 

hmmmm.....
I may have to agree here--the 12v has a little trouble hauling around
the few thousand pounds of metal, and the automatic transmission doesn't
help that at all.  It cuts the slip in 4th and sometimes 3rd gear, but
if you're passing on the freeway, it shifts down to second to get the
rpm's above 4000, and is generally useless.  arrrg.

> So, Audi "fixed" it by slapping a GM-style
> digressive linkage on it: the first bit of travel snaps the throttle
> open a good amount to give you that shove in the back, and then resumes
> a more conservative progression.
 
I'm not sure I would like this, in fact.  I think I would feel more
comfortable with whatever linearity (is that a word?) that the stiff
cable gives.

> I've never driven a later "old" A6 with this linkage so I don't know
> what it's really like. Dunno if they carried it over to the A4 and
> later to the 30V or not...
 
It's probably less necessary with the 30v engine--better torque.
-- 
Elliott

"Never underestimate the power of human stupidity."
	--The Notebooks of Lazarus Long


> -Chris
> 1993 90CS