Crown

Board: Other Sports Cars Language: English Region: Worldwide Share/Save/Bookmark Close

Forum - Thread

    May 5, 2006 8:29:40 AM

    BC
    Rennteam Pro
    BC
    Loc: Cape Town , South Africa
    Posts: 2586, Gallery
    Registered on: May 19, 2005

    Right.... Whats next ??

    Hey Gents

    So, Ive got my GT3 and I'm totally happy with it. I use it almost every day except when the weathers totally messed up or when I need more practicality. I've had my Golf 4 GTi for a good couple of years now and I think its time to upgrade on that one...

    Now I know this is a sportscar board, so sorry if I'm wasting some of you guys' time, but I thought I'd ask in any case.
    I'm looking for another hot hatch and i've got a few potential choices. Here they are.

    - BMW 130sport... definately top of the list. its fast, I think it looks good and has RWD dynamics. sounds nice too. Only downside is the lack of rear space...

    - Ford Focus ST... very nice aswell... It looks awesome and goes well too. Downside?? I'm hating that interior!!

    - Renault Megane Sport... another nice car... for those of you that havent drivin one, go for it. You'll be very suprised by how this little rocket accelerates. Downside?? One of my friends drives one

    Some other choices may be a Golf GTi, Audi A3 3.2V6, GTi-R32 or a Alfa 147GTA.

    Help please

    May 5, 2006 8:53:36 AM

    KresoF1
    Rennteam VIP
    KresoF1
    Loc: Croatia , Croatia
    Posts: 7856, Gallery
    Registered on: Dec 3, 2005
    Reply to: BC

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    BC, great choice of hot hatches!
    Since my best friend is in similar situation as you we drove all of these cars in last few months.
    BMW 130i-excellent engine and handling. Good traction on dry road, DSC helpfull on wet road. But, feeling is not like small M3... Downside:BMW will replace its engine with 272hp(DI) version till end of the year. If you are die hard RWD fun go for it!
    Ford Focus ST-cheapest and maybe the best value for money. Decent traction for FWD, good handling, nice sound and car is fast! Brakes are good as well... Positive:5cylinders engine is really good Downside:Looks
    VW Golf GTI-my personal favorite! Best FWD traction and really balanced feeling on the road. Very good handling and brakes as well. Best looks IMO. Allmost an Icon in this class... Downside:engine sound and 18" wheels are a must!
    VW Golf R32-best traction on dry or wet road. Awsome sound(but, not as balanced sound as 130i) and power but, handling is more front heavy then GTI. Whole car feels more nimble then GTI... DSG is fun killer IMO. Looks is not my cup of tea as well. Pretty expensive for VW.
    Renault Megane RS225-forget about that one, IMO!

    My firend finally ordered Ford Focus ST! Why? With full option it is cheaper then GTI and he liked more powerfull 5cylinder engine more.

    BTW, you can also wait for new AUDI S3! It will be introduced in one month or so. Specs: 2.0L turbo, 260hp, AWD, new Magnetic Ride sport suspension, etc. This will be without any doubt class leader!

    May 5, 2006 9:10:00 AM

    NM
    Co-Pilot
    NM
    Loc: London, UK , United Kingdom
    Posts: 266, Gallery
    Registered on: Jan 19, 2005
    Reply to: KresoF1

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??


    GTI is awesome - my friend just bought one, he's been having a lot of fun with lift-off oversteer!

    May 5, 2006 9:14:09 AM

    zzbobaA
    Rennteam Administrator
    zzboba
    Loc: Germany
    Posts: 3115, Gallery
    Registered on: Apr 8, 2002
    Reply to: BC

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    this thread might interest you:
    http://www.rennteam.com/showflat.php?Cat=0&Number=219794&page=0&fpart=all&vc=1

    May 5, 2006 9:47:08 AM

    OAB
    Co-Pilot
    OAB
    Loc: Germany , Germany
    Posts: 155, Gallery
    Registered on: Jan 16, 2003
    Reply to: BC

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    I drive an A3 3.2 V6 Sportsback with the DSG transmission.
    It is a fine car, well engineered and the DSG is a good comprimise between an auto tranny and a manual. It is reasonably fast although it is not a rocket (I think it weighs more than my turbo) so do the math. I deleted the standard sport suspension to get more comfort but even with the sport suspension it is not a "sporty" car - not a hot hatch. It oversteers and due to the weight its not ideal for track events and twisties. I think the new S3 or the 130i would be much more what you are looking for.

    I use the car as a pratical car next to my turbo (for "understated" city driving and as a transporter of bulky goods and people) and it does this job very well.

    May 5, 2006 10:10:53 AM

    BC
    Rennteam Pro
    BC
    Loc: Cape Town , South Africa
    Posts: 2586, Gallery
    Registered on: May 19, 2005
    Reply to: zzbobaA

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    So heres the thing....

    NM: I know the Gti is very capable but there are simply too much of them around. I see at least about 3 everyday over here. And the car doesnt really do anything for me. I'm not really into the GTI heritage that much... I'm still not overlooking it though...

    Kreso: The little BM is defntly what I'm leaning toward the most... There are 2 car brands that I have a loyalty toward, and those are BMW and Porsche.
    With regard to the Renault, most are very conservative and wont go for it but I like it. I've drivin both the BM and the RS and the latter actually feels faster when accelerating through the gears. Of course when that straight six BM engine gets opened it will get ahead of the Renault, but for sheer push you into your seatback thrust, the Renaults the winner i have to say . I also looks like nothing else on the road but I've heard bad stories about that cars electronics ...
    The ford's a very nice car... Although it goes for a bit more than a GTi over here. (In 5door form, 3doors cheaper)...

    zzboba you just made things worse ... I forgot about the New Honda Civic typeR... must check if thats coming to SA though and I completely forgot about the New Clio Sport. Although that will be a bit small.

    I was thinking about a Evo for a while but backed out. I want something a bit more refined...

    I hate having to make decisions!!

    May 5, 2006 10:13:44 AM

    BC
    Rennteam Pro
    BC
    Loc: Cape Town , South Africa
    Posts: 2586, Gallery
    Registered on: May 19, 2005
    Reply to: OAB

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    Quote:
    OAB said:
    I drive an A3 3.2 V6 Sportsback with the DSG transmission.
    It is a fine car, well engineered and the DSG is a good comprimise between an auto tranny and a manual. It is reasonably fast although it is not a rocket (I think it weighs more than my turbo) so do the math. I deleted the standard sport suspension to get more comfort but even with the sport suspension it is not a "sporty" car - not a hot hatch. It oversteers and due to the weight its not ideal for track events and twisties. I think the new S3 or the 130i would be much more what you are looking for.

    I use the car as a pratical car next to my turbo (for "understated" city driving and as a transporter of bulky goods and people) and it does this job very well.



    In know...those audis are hugely capable but arent exactly sporty enough for me... If I wait for the S3, I might as well wait for a M1 But the thing is, I dont wanna wait. Thats why I'm buying 2nd hand.

    May 5, 2006 12:43:14 PM

    Avoe
    Veteran
    Avoe
    Loc: Vienna , Austria
    Posts: 803, Gallery
    Registered on: Apr 17, 2002
    Reply to: BC

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    I had the same situation, at the end we chose the A3 Sportback 2,0.
    IMO the best looking car in his segment, and also one of the bigest. Since we need this car to fit our baby with all of the stuff which babys need. ;-) BMW is just to small, rear seats and trunk.
    If you are looking for a 250+ engine so anyway I would recomend you to take the 3,2 which is combined with AWD.

    May 5, 2006 12:56:52 PM

    BC
    Rennteam Pro
    BC
    Loc: Cape Town , South Africa
    Posts: 2586, Gallery
    Registered on: May 19, 2005
    Reply to: Avoe

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    Sportback's the most practical by far actually. But then I'm 'only' 21 dont really need the extra space cause the only baby I need to fit in there is my girlfriend ....

    May 5, 2006 1:24:48 PM

    throt
    Rennteam VIP
    throt
    Loc: London , United Kingdom
    Posts: 6078, Gallery
    Registered on: May 9, 2005
    Reply to: BC

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    BC ,, whens that new Honda Civic type R coming out , that looks nice and no doubt will perform also...

    throt...

    PS:: Early 2007 ...

    http://www.rsportscars.com/eng/cars/civic_type-r.asp

    May 5, 2006 1:50:02 PM

    bostonmini
    Veteran
    bostonmini
    Loc:
    Posts: 924, Gallery
    Registered on: Oct 31, 2003
    Reply to: throt

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    GET A MINI!

    May 5, 2006 5:22:37 PM

    Rossi
    Rennteam VIP
    Rossi
    Loc: Home , Germany
    Posts: 12682, Gallery
    Registered on: Apr 11, 2002
    Reply to: zzbobaA

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    Quote:
    zzboba said:
    this thread might interest you:
    http://www.rennteam.com/showflat.php?Cat=0&Number=219794&page=0&fpart=all&vc=1



    There's another interesting thread regarding the Golf R32:
    http://www.rennteam.com/showflat.php?Cat=0&Number=202583&page=&fpart=all&vc=1

    I am more than pleased with the R32, really a great car!

    May 5, 2006 5:24:27 PM

    BC
    Rennteam Pro
    BC
    Loc: Cape Town , South Africa
    Posts: 2586, Gallery
    Registered on: May 19, 2005
    Reply to: bostonmini

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    Quote:
    bostonmini said:
    GET A MINI!



    Too Small!!!
    I Love the new Mini's.... i think theyre AWESOME but it wont work out ...

    They're the funkiest cars on the road by far and are excellent drivers cars. It makes me cry but no...

    May 5, 2006 5:31:29 PM

    Rossi
    Rennteam VIP
    Rossi
    Loc: Home , Germany
    Posts: 12682, Gallery
    Registered on: Apr 11, 2002
    Reply to: BC

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    Quote:
    BC997J said:
    Quote:
    bostonmini said:
    GET A MINI!



    Too Small!!!
    I Love the new Mini's.... i think theyre AWESOME but it wont work out ...

    They're the funkiest cars on the road by far and are excellent drivers cars. It makes me cry but no...



    The next generation should become bigger (I wonder why, but it's a fact), but then you have to wait for a couple of months.

    May 5, 2006 5:34:41 PM

    The Groom
    Expert
    The Groom
    Loc: EU
    Posts: 1779, Gallery
    Registered on: Jan 23, 2005
    Reply to: bostonmini

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    IMHO

    1/ BMW 130i
    2/ Honda Civic Type R
    3/ Renault Megane RS

    The 130i is no doubt the sportiest of the bunch. It's very powerful, it is a true RWD, and it can actually SING!
    On the other hand, it's the most expensive.

    The Megane RS is the most well-rounded one. It's the best daily driver, the most comfortable, the best equipped and the safest. It has the best handling, and the engine is maaaaaad! And you can get a glass roof (I've always been a Targa guy ).
    On the other hand, its steering sucks, it filters too much feeling from the road. Although it's not as bad as the other Meganes, it reminds me of ajcastaneda's "novocaine steering" sig.

    The Civic Type R is inbetween. It's a bit less powerful, but probably cheaper. And it sure makes the other two look tame in the design department.

    May 5, 2006 5:59:24 PM

    BC
    Rennteam Pro
    BC
    Loc: Cape Town , South Africa
    Posts: 2586, Gallery
    Registered on: May 19, 2005
    Reply to: Rossi

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    Quote:
    Rossi said:
    Quote:
    BC997J said:
    Quote:
    bostonmini said:
    GET A MINI!



    Too Small!!!
    I Love the new Mini's.... i think theyre AWESOME but it wont work out ...

    They're the funkiest cars on the road by far and are excellent drivers cars. It makes me cry but no...



    The next generation should become bigger (I wonder why, but it's a fact), but then you have to wait for a couple of months.



    Hey Rossi

    Sounds good, where did you get this info???
    Any links etc... Spy pics??

    A couple of months seems OK I guess. As long as a couple means about 2 or even 3 for the most.

    May 5, 2006 6:32:42 PM

    BC
    Rennteam Pro
    BC
    Loc: Cape Town , South Africa
    Posts: 2586, Gallery
    Registered on: May 19, 2005
    Reply to: The Groom

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    Hey Groom...
    Youre right about the glass roof on the renault... Very nice touch I'm not to sure about the handling being the best IMO...

    May 5, 2006 6:33:52 PM

    VGA18
    Veteran
    VGA18
    Loc: Istanbul and Tampa
    Posts: 1029, Gallery
    Registered on: Apr 11, 2006
    Reply to: throt

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    Audi 2.0TFSI with chip tuning,airfilter and exhaust mods will be much better than Audi 3.2 v6 's
    My 2nd car is 2005 Audi 2.0TFSI quattro with these mods. I am better than e46 330ci with acceleration and top speed issues.

    May 5, 2006 6:47:33 PM

    BC
    Rennteam Pro
    BC
    Loc: Cape Town , South Africa
    Posts: 2586, Gallery
    Registered on: May 19, 2005
    Reply to: VGA18

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    What performance numbers are you getting... Hard question , I know, but estimates??

    May 5, 2006 7:51:13 PM

    Crash
    Rennteam VIP
    Crash
    Loc: Never been to , Antarctica
    Posts: 8287, Gallery
    Registered on: Oct 17, 2002
    Reply to: BC

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    Quote:
    BC997J said:
    What performance numbers are you getting... Hard question , I know, but estimates??



    Based on the normal numbers I'd guess about 6,5 seconds 0-100 km/h and about 25-27 seconds to 200 km/h. Top speed of about 250 km/h.

    May 5, 2006 8:30:09 PM

    brunner
    Veteran
    brunner
    Loc: E. Europe , Romania
    Posts: 1125, Gallery
    Registered on: Apr 28, 2003
    Reply to: throt

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    Do you get the Renault Clio V6 in South Africa?
    Mid-engined, 250hp...


    edit: seems like you do get it there
    http://www.motoring.co.za/index.php?fArticleId=2846690&fSectionId=873&fSetId=381

    May 5, 2006 9:12:00 PM

    The Groom
    Expert
    The Groom
    Loc: EU
    Posts: 1779, Gallery
    Registered on: Jan 23, 2005
    Reply to: BC

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    Quote:
    BC997J said:
    Hey Groom...
    Youre right about the glass roof on the renault... Very nice touch I'm not to sure about the handling being the best IMO...


    It takes all sorts, but to me, it beats the 130i hands down. It is much safer and forgiving, without being an understeering pig like the A3. It's just neutral and efficient. It does not spin wildly at the first occasion or break your back just for the sake of it. It will perform exactly as ordered.

    As for the GTi or R32, their suspensions suck. The springs are too stiff, while the dampers are too soft. As a consequence, you can feel every millimetre of the bump the second you hit it, then the car just bobbles around for a needlessly long while. This is both unsettling and dangerous.

    I don't know about the new Civic Type R, but the previous generation was too stiff for me. At least, the dampers were efficient. Same goes for the engine: it was awesome near the red line, but it is sorely lacking torque in every day driving.
    IMHO, it's just being stiff for the sake of pretending to be sporty. The Megane RS is just as efficient while preserving a modicum of comfort.

    It all depends on what you are really after. If you are willing to sacrifice convenience and comfort for raw fun, a 130i (or a Mini Cooper S JCW for that matter) is just what you're looking for. If you prefer to get 90% of the fun but 90% more utility, the Megane RS can't be beaten.



    As for the Clio V6, I'd advise against it. It's an awesome toy, but nothing more. It's not practical at all and even tricky to drive. Since I guess the car you are after is going to be a daily driver, it makes little sense to get one.

    May 5, 2006 11:48:08 PM

    Alex18_996CC Offline
    Rennteam Master
    Alex18_996CC
    Loc: Madrid , Spain
    Posts: 3218, Gallery
    Registered on: Jun 13, 2004
    Reply to: The Groom

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    mmmm what about a mini cooper S, probably a John Works with 210bhp

    May 6, 2006 12:04:40 AM

    Discover
    Senior
    Discover
    Loc: Israel
    Posts: 711, Gallery
    Registered on: Sep 17, 2005
    Reply to: The Groom

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    if i were you i would take either the A3 2TFSI or wait a bit for the new Seat Leon FR\Cupra with the same 2.0Turbo FSI engine (and maybe even DSG gearbox!)

    May 6, 2006 5:15:53 AM

    BC
    Rennteam Pro
    BC
    Loc: Cape Town , South Africa
    Posts: 2586, Gallery
    Registered on: May 19, 2005
    Reply to: brunner

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    Quote:
    brunner said:
    Do you get the Renault Clio V6 in South Africa?
    Mid-engined, 250hp...


    edit: seems like you do get it there
    http://www.motoring.co.za/index.php?fArticleId=2846690&fSectionId=873&fSetId=381



    Yeah we do but the cars too impractical... Its more of a sports car than anything else and thats not exactly what I need. The lack of rear seats is the main factor there...Its a cool car though.. I've never drivin one but I hear its quite good

    I think its very overpriced for what performance you get aswell

    May 6, 2006 5:31:50 AM

    BC
    Rennteam Pro
    BC
    Loc: Cape Town , South Africa
    Posts: 2586, Gallery
    Registered on: May 19, 2005
    Reply to: BC

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??


    Alex: Too small!!! If it was bigger I'd get one no doubt! Although Rossi said something abou t the next generation being bigger...

    Discover: We dont get Seat over here as far as I know... If it is available then there marketing is up to crap. BTW, no DSG for me, thanks!!

    Groom: thanxx for all the feedback. You just reminded me about something about the whole torque thing... Although the hatch I get will have to play the role of a sportscar now and then, It would be cool if it's a relaxed, easy to drive car aswell... The GT3's already on a No-torque diet so it would be cool to have something that has good ammounts of it...Makes driving more easy when you need it.


    I really think I'll go for the 130... Maybe even plant a M3 engine in there sooner or later

    May 6, 2006 7:45:35 AM

    The Groom
    Expert
    The Groom
    Loc: EU
    Posts: 1779, Gallery
    Registered on: Jan 23, 2005
    Reply to: BC

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    Excellent choice. I'm sure you'll have lots of fun. The 6-cylinder is a blast. Powerful, torquey, and musical.

    May 6, 2006 10:17:12 PM

    Rossi
    Rennteam VIP
    Rossi
    Loc: Home , Germany
    Posts: 12682, Gallery
    Registered on: Apr 11, 2002
    Reply to: BC

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    Quote:
    BC997J said:
    Hey Rossi

    Sounds good, where did you get this info???
    Any links etc... Spy pics??

    A couple of months seems OK I guess. As long as a couple means about 2 or even 3 for the most.



    It should be autumn or winter this year until we the the next generation Mini.

    Many pics, including non-camouflaged interior you can find here:

    Mini Info Site in German



    A little teaser...

    May 7, 2006 3:04:51 PM

    BC
    Rennteam Pro
    BC
    Loc: Cape Town , South Africa
    Posts: 2586, Gallery
    Registered on: May 19, 2005
    Reply to: Rossi

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    Thanxx Rossi ... Still looks a bit on the small side though.

    Looking forward to seeing some performance specs

    May 7, 2006 4:20:30 PM

    throt
    Rennteam VIP
    throt
    Loc: London , United Kingdom
    Posts: 6078, Gallery
    Registered on: May 9, 2005
    Reply to: BC

    Re: Right.... Whats next ??

    Quote:
    BC997J said:
    Thanxx Rossi ... Still looks a bit on the small side though.

    Looking forward to seeing some performance specs



    Its appears to have quality , but somewhat , I still see it as a hairdressers car ,, imo of course....

    throt..
     
    Edit

    Forum

    1. All 

    Boards

     
    Board Subject Last post Rating Views Replies
    Porsche Sticky SUN'S LAST RUN TO WILSON, WY - 991 C2S CAB LIFE, END OF AN ERA (Part II) 5/15/24 8:44 AM
    art.italy     		804060 1808
    Porsche Sticky Welcome to Rennteam: Cars and Coffee... (photos) 4/7/24 11:48 AM
    Boxster Coupe GTS     		448741 565
    Porsche Sticky OFFICIAL: Porsche 911 (992) GT3 RS - 2022 3/12/24 8:28 AM
    DJM48     		266364 323
    Porsche Sticky The new Macan: the first all-electric SUV from Porsche 1/30/24 9:18 AM
    RCA     		90170 45
    Porsche Sticky OFFICIAL: Taycan 2024 Facelift 3/15/24 1:23 PM
    CGX car nut     		6759 50
    Porsche The moment I've been waiting for... 2/1/24 7:01 PM
    Pilot
     
     
     
     
     
    		 886086 1364
    Porsche 992 GT3 7/23/23 7:01 PM
    Grant     		834481 3868
    Porsche GT4RS 4/21/24 11:50 AM
    mcdelaug     		400054 1454
    Porsche Welcome to the new Taycan Forum! 2/10/24 4:43 PM
    nberry     		396145 1526
    Others Tesla 2 the new thread 12/13/23 2:48 PM
    CGX car nut     		383437 2401
    Porsche Donor vehicle for Singer Vehicle Design 7/3/23 12:30 PM
    Porker     		371048 797
    Porsche Red Nipples 991.2 GT3 Touring on tour 5/12/24 6:23 PM
    blueflame     		293671 669
    Porsche Collected my 997 GTS today 10/19/23 7:06 PM
    CGX car nut
     
     
     
     
     
    		 266025 812
    Lambo Huracán EVO STO 7/30/23 6:59 PM
    mcdelaug     		244111 346
    Lotus Lotus Emira 6/25/23 2:53 PM
    Enmanuel     		238682 101
    Others Corvette C8 10/16/23 3:24 PM
    Enmanuel     		222422 488
    Others Gordon Murray - T.50 11/22/23 10:27 AM
    mcdelaug     		173225 387
    Porsche Back to basics - 996 GT3 RS 6/11/23 5:13 PM
    CGX car nut     		145006 144
    BMW M 2024 BMW M3 CS Official Now 12/29/23 9:04 AM
    RCA     		121196 303
    Motor Sp. 2023 Formula One 12/19/23 5:38 AM
    WhoopsyM     		111962 685
    Porsche 2022 992 Safari Model 3/7/24 4:22 PM
    WhoopsyM     		85737 239
    AMG Mercedes-Benz W124 500E aka Porsche typ 2758 2/23/24 10:03 PM
    blueflame     		75947 297
    Porsche 992 GT3 RS 3/3/24 7:22 PM
    WhoopsyM     		54992 314
    Motor Sp. Porsche 963 5/14/24 7:53 AM
    Porker     		26614 247
    Ferrari Ferrari 296 GTB (830PS, Hybrid V6) 1/21/24 4:29 PM
    GT-Boy     		21799 103
    BMW M 2022 BMW M5 CS 4/8/24 1:43 PM
    Ferdie     		20321 140
    AMG G63 sold out 9/15/23 7:38 PM
    Nico997     		17151 120
    AMG [2022] Mercedes-AMG SL 4/23/24 1:24 PM
    RCA     		14542 225
    Motor Sp. 24-Hour race Nürburgring 2018 5/25/23 10:42 PM
    Grant     		11586 55
    Porsche Porsche Mission X Hypercar 12/3/23 8:52 AM
    996FourEss     		11206 63
    123 items found, displaying 1 to 30.