Autotech 1.8t Intake Camshaft – Power Bump Stick

Volkswagen’s 1.8-liter turbo represented a huge step for tuners and enthusiasts alike. The G60 before it had given enthusiasts a taste of the potential of forced induction. The US market only saw it in the Corrado, while the rest of the world could enjoy Golfs and even Passats powered by the little blown four. Sadly the G-Ladder supercharger proved to be unreliable and VW had moved to the larger VR6 at its performance alternative for the MK3.

With the release of the MK4, car companies started to see the fuel economy writing on the wall. Small displacement forced induction engines would have to replace the bigger displacement, thirstier engines. Not only did the 1.8t deliver better economy, but enthusiasts found levels of tuning that just weren’t possible in naturally aspirated engines.

Refreshing Performance – VW MK4 Upkeep and Upgrades

Have you noticed your car getting less responsive? Maybe it doesn’t turn-in like it used to, the engine doesn’t seem as snappy? Cars age like we do and things start to wear out. The beauty of a car, though (unlike us), is that parts are easily replaceable and upgradeable.

Our own VW MkIV was starting to feel a little rough, so we finally decided to do something. You may not have a MkIV (or even a VW, for that matter), but these repairs and improvements apply to just about any car.

First, the front suspension felt sloppy. It would vibrate at speed, wander as if the steering wasn’t properly connected and it didn’t feel “tight”. We had visions of replacing ball joints and tie-rods, but once we got it up on the lift, the prognosis wasn’t so bleak. The guys at VW Specialties in Huntington Beach helped us diagnose and remedy the problems.

Fastivus 2009 – Annual VW R32 Gathering by SOCALR32

It’s hard to believe that an event held to celebrate a car that only has two model years would actually continue to grow into its fifth year of existence. Fastivus, as it is now called, is a gathering for owners and enthusiasts of Volkswagen R32s that were sold in 2004 and 2008. The limited edition 3.2-liter V6 powered all wheel drive Golfs are the top of the VW performance food chain and have a near religious following. This year 159 cars showed up, handily beating last year’s record of 140.

The event was again organized by SocalR32 with title sponsors Volkswagen of America, HPA Motorsports out of Canada, and Southern California’s own VF-Engineering. The two day event consists of a gathering with Show & Shine judging, go-karting and vendor exhibits. The highlight of the first day is the now world famous R32 raffle which saw $33,000 worth of prizes given away to happy R32 owners.