When VW announced the specs of the MkV R32, cries for more power could be heard within minutes. The 3.2 liter six-cylinder is certainly no dog, but who doesn't want more power? Enthusiasts have become spoiled with huge power gains on forced induction engines, forgetting that tuning naturally aspirated engines is a far greater challenge. We test three new products on VW's newest creation. Keep in mind that the dyno is only half the story and can't represent driveability and other qualitative factors.
*Baseline
Peak wheel-hp 199.6 @ 6380 rpm
Peak wheel torque (lb-ft) 192.2 @ 2806 rpm
*Vehicle data
Engine: 3.2-liter VR6, factory rated 250 hp @ 6300 rpm and 236 lb-ft of torque @ 2500 to 3000 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed DSG
Drivetrain: all-wheel drive
Mileage: 1053
Testing octane: 91
*Dyno data
Dyno type: 4WD Mustang Dynamometer
Outside temperature: 61 degrees (morning)/65 degrees (evening)
Transmission test gear: Fourth
*Note:
This R32 had a strange dip in the power curve at about 6000 rpm. This is something of an anomaly, since other R32s tested on the same dyno have not shown this. The dip was apparent on the preliminary dyno run and not caused by any subsequent modifications. All tests were performed in all-wheel drive mode, not front-wheel drive.
Milltek cat-back exhaust
Peak wheel-hp 204.1 @ 6357 rpm
Peak wheel torque (lb-ft) 195.1@ 2984 rpm
*Construction:
Type 304 aircraft-grade stainless steel
Piping Diameter: 2.75 inches
Tips: Dual, 100 mm
*Pros:
2.75-inch mandrel bent stainless steel tubing is optimal size for maximum flow with no decrease in low-end torqueVacuum-actuated flapper is removed for constant throaty tone throughout the entire rev range
Dual muffler configuration ensures no obnoxious drone100-mm tips fill the bumper cut-out
*Cons:
Slip-joint construction and adjustable rear muffler hanger requires some tweaking to get everything lined up
Once muffler clamps are tightened, the system is difficult to remove or adjust
*Parts:
Latex gloves, exhaust sealant, pipe extender, resonated center section, rear silencer and Milltek sticker
*Tools:
13mm and 16mm socket, ratchet, WD-40
*Price:
$999
*Installation time:
30 minutes
*Notes:
The stock exhaust has some definite restrictions and the Milltek system cured this issue. The only real way to maximize the potential of the exhaust would be to decrease the restrictions prior to the beginning of the system. The sound is definitely a crowd-pleaser.