Test driving the TT

[Tom Nas <tnas@euronet.nl>]

Hi all,

I had the chance to make a short test drive in the TT today, so here's a
short impression:

-180 hp FWD version (the only one we're getting here for now, quattros
later this year) has ample power, very flat torque curve, very fast
acceleration. No noticeable turbo lag, just all that power all the time

-very quiet, which mutes the sports car sensation a bit but is great on
long drives. Maybe I'd fit a different exhaust in the long run. I love my
I-5, and this engine makes no noise at all which feels like you're missing
something

-optional wider tyres make it very prone to aquaplaning (no surprise, as it
was on @#$%$% Contis)

-steering a tad too feel-less for my tastes, a common new-Audi malady IMO

-if it were my car I'd go for the half-leather, half-Alcantara upholstery
(less slippery) and I'd fit stiffer struts and springs. It doesn't roll
much, but it doesn't feel over-inspiring either. (note: I might be spoiled,
having driven a quattro with pretty good tyres for the last six months...)

-Pretty strong understeer, and the front wheels struggle to put the power
on the road (again, perhaps a side effect of the crappy tyres)

-I love the mid-blue metallic, but dislike the blue lower dash and console
that comes with it. I prefer the black dash for its contrast with the alu
bits

-build quality is truly superb

-Everyone stares at you when you're driving a TT.

Tom

 _______________________________________________________________________
 Tom Nas                                          Zeist, The Netherlands
 tnas@euronet.nl
 1987 Audi 90q 2.3E, Tizianrot metallic, 167,000km

         Never make predictions, especially about the future.
                                        -- Samuel Goldwyn