2nd Generation Specific (1986-1992) 1986-1992 Discussion including performance modifications and technical support sections.

which model and year makes the best N/A autocross car

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Old Mar 31, 2003 | 04:22 PM
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From: houston (katy), tx
which model and year makes the best N/A autocross car

hey all,

Well, i want to get more competive in my class in autocrossing, (love how my 1st gen handles though). I was wondering what N/A makes the best autocross car stock, i have done some research think that the s5 GTU was the best, but i hear the speed sensing thingy (yea i know real techinical ) screws it up.

Thanks in advance

Snake Eyes<l><l>
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Old Mar 31, 2003 | 04:22 PM
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'89 GTUs
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Old Mar 31, 2003 | 04:24 PM
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'90 GTUs, just cuz it's more rare and people will back away in awe.
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Old Mar 31, 2003 | 04:28 PM
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thanks, but do u mind adding why? thanks

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Old Mar 31, 2003 | 04:30 PM
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Id say either an S4 base or S4 GXL because they are lighter than the S5s. The base is the lightest but lacks an LSD and 15" wheels, something the GXL has, but the GXL has a few more luxury items that weigh it down even more.
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Old Mar 31, 2003 | 04:40 PM
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the gtus is obviesly the ultimate.. but good luck finding one....... my 88' se was alot of fun. alot lighter and handled ok compared to my s5 gxl
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Old Mar 31, 2003 | 04:42 PM
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The series 5's aren't THAT bad. Though, a series 5 GTUs would be the ultimate. The higher compression engine, 4.3 rear-end, it'd be perfect.
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Old Mar 31, 2003 | 04:46 PM
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Though, a series 5 GTUs would be the ultimate. The higher compression engine, 4.3 rear-end, it'd be perfect.
The extra couple hundred pounds....
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Old Mar 31, 2003 | 07:13 PM
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how much extra weight is it?

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Old Mar 31, 2003 | 07:40 PM
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After running at a road race track this last weekend, I love my GXL. Those brakes and Hawk HP+ pads make an insane combination.

I say get whatever has the big *** brakes. Screw this whole the something is lighter than something else by 100 pounds here or there. Honestly, screw the weight for the extra couple tenths. When it comes to the NAs brakes are the most important feature for your car. Or at least find one who's gotten a conversion.

Brakes are your friend.
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Old Mar 31, 2003 | 07:47 PM
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The difference is between 150-200lbs. Go on a diet to make up the difference...
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Old Mar 31, 2003 | 10:31 PM
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You want any FC that has the big brakes/LSD.

I would go with the 88 GTU, or the 89-90 GTUs. The S4 is lighter, the S5 is preaty, has a 8 grand redline, and has no sun roof witch if you are tall is a big plus.
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Old Mar 31, 2003 | 11:02 PM
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Yo,


1989-1990 GTUs, of course! *grin*

No sunroof gives you better helmet clearance, 4.30 rear end keeps you "on the pipe" through the cones.





Jon H. shows how it's done in his former GTUs!

Kevin
1989 GTUs "Gone, but not forgotten!"
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Old Mar 31, 2003 | 11:58 PM
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86-87 sport model. They are the lightest, and while the dont have the bigger brakes, at autoX where speed dont get above 50MPH(if that), it wont be that important.
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Old Apr 1, 2003 | 12:04 AM
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I think the GTUs would be able to outperform the '87 sport, (87 to 89), it's a what, 150lb difference, then compare the engines and the gearing, I'd bet on the GTUs
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Old Apr 1, 2003 | 12:18 AM
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'88 GTU

among the lightest of the S4s, large brakes, clutch-type differential. The best autocrossing 2nd gen IMO.
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Old Apr 1, 2003 | 12:21 AM
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Originally posted by FCdemon
'88 GTU

among the lightest of the S4s, large brakes, clutch-type differential. The best autocrossing 2nd gen IMO.
Agreed
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Old Apr 1, 2003 | 12:35 AM
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LSD + 2000lb = quick in autocross
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Old Apr 1, 2003 | 01:34 AM
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Exclamation

I hear that sunroofs make a diff in driving because of the weight but i dont' know how it can be all that obvious unless you have done some weight reduction prior. I just got a '89 GTUs and the "new" brakes that it's suppose to have, are pretty bad. But then again I bought it off a guy up in Hunter's Point.... go figure. =]
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Old Apr 1, 2003 | 02:56 AM
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Originally posted by FCdemon
'88 GTU

among the lightest of the S4s, large brakes, clutch-type differential. The best autocrossing 2nd gen IMO.
That's what I heard to. They also have a lighter hood. Hard to find car though.
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Old Apr 1, 2003 | 04:00 AM
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It's not *that* much lighter than the s5's (if you're concerned about the hood, steal it from a vert) I just think the s5 GTUs has a lot more stock than the s4 can offer, and I think it more than makes up for the weight difference.
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Old Apr 1, 2003 | 04:04 AM
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Old Apr 1, 2003 | 04:17 AM
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Just wondering but if the S4 base model is the lightest and the S4 GTU has better brakes and LSD wouldnt it make sense to add the 5 lug and LSD to a base model?

And what actually adds the weight that make the GTU heaver than the SE? IF its the bigger brakes then go for the SE with racing brake pads.

But seriously where does the GTU get all its extra weight from. Cuz im considering turning my SE into a GTU. 5 lug and LSD on the way!
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Old Apr 1, 2003 | 09:00 AM
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"autoX where speed dont get above 50MPH(if that), it wont be that important."

I beg to differ, what you lack in power of the N/A you must make up for in braking. If you got the bigger brakes use them to their full potential. Better and bigger brakes can never be a bad thing -- unless you're in a drag.

The couple hundred pounds isn't going to make a big of a difference as bigger brakes and an LSD would (second to the brakes). If you want to label which one has the greatest return for shorter times, it will be brakes.

Get 'em just to the point before the ABS turns on
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Old Apr 1, 2003 | 09:06 AM
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Yes, I agree I would rather have the LSD and bigger brakes (hence why I have a S4 GXL ). I was just trying to say that in an AutoX environment only, the ligher weight of a base model would probably win out over a heavier car, even with the LSD and bigger brakes. I did forget about the 88GTU though, that would also be at the top of the list. I personally am putting my car together with the best parts from every car I can(89GTUs rear end, S4 GXL big brakes, no ABS,base model aluminum hood, etc..) I will have a frankenstein N/A
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