So it is finally time we get off our collective rears and got back to giving you updates on our project 24V Jetta GLI. Upcoming installments will cover our decisions for wheels and tires, a suspension update, and a few exterior changes. For now, it’s about time we improved the performance of our 24V, and we were able to source some bolt-ons that fit the bill perfectly.

First, we chose to improve the air flow for our VR6, and along with it, the sporty sound of the car. While there isn't much room for improvement here for performance over the factory exhaust and intake, there is still potential for increased throttle response and a bit of horsepower. There is one area where there is a lot of room for improvement, the sound that comes from these parts. While our car does spend some time on local tracks, it’s still a daily driver and we didn't want the exhaust note to be screaming banshee loud. This left us with a few choices, but when we first heard what Milltek had to offer, we fell in love. To us, it is the perfect Euro tuned sound for the Jetta GLI, and we didn't waste any time in picking up the phone and calling the guys at Stratmosphere to get our hands on the cat back kit. Milltek maintains a stock look with their exhaust systems, which is another plus in our book.


Along with improving the flow of exhaust gases out of our 24V, we also wanted to improve the clean air flow into it. With the rather straw-sized opening of that factory air box, we naturally started looking for a cold air intake that would best suit what we have planned for our project. We found what we were looking for and contacted the folks at Carbonio. We like the look of the Carbonio carbon fiber intake and we like to believe that every little bit of weight we can take off the front to offset the extra weight from the VR6 is a good thing. No matter how insignificant it seems, it all adds up eventually. The added growl at wide open throttle provided by the CAI brings a huge grin to our faces every single time we hear it.


So now onto something that plugs in rather than bolts on. With the improved air flow and sound now covered, we needed to change the software of our 24V to take better advantage of our modifications. When it comes to the VR6, we knew right away what we wanted, so our next call was to Jeff Moss at Torque Factory to talk about GIAC's performance software. Jeff set us up with GIAC's flashloader, including their performance program for 91 to 93 octane fuel and their program for 100 octane race fuel.

Thanks to Eurosport Accessories for the use of their dyno, we can show you before and after power plots of exactly what we gained from our modifications. We know how some people are all about the numbers, so here you go.


Though the gains are not huge, they definitely make a difference. Throttle response is noticeably improved and with the rev limiter moved out 7300 rpm we can take better advantage of the power our 24V offers us at the top end. We are thrilled with the results, both the feel of the car and oh, how we love the new sound. Where is Tim Allen to give us a grunt or two when we need him?

Be on the lookout more updates coming very soon, we swear!

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