So guys which turbo should i get ko3 hybrid or ko4?
Also if i want more then 360bhp what do i need to do? Forge my engine?
Do you like worms? If so, get your can opener and dig in!
For me, K04 or K04 hybrid all day long. Make the power from flow rather than psi. It makes for a far less stressed engine. The most power from the least PSI is the goal for engine lifespan.
It's why when VAG designed the S3/6R, rather than simply just whacking the boost up on a K03, they fitted a bigger turbo, bigger intercooler, bigger bore boost pipes, more HPFP cam lift, stronger head, stronger rods, better pistons etc etc. It's why you need to ask yourself, if VAG went to those lengths to add a seemingly insignificant 65hp over a 200hp K03 engine, what stress does over boosting a GTI engine cause in the long term?
Something else to bear in mind with the K03 engine is it has a higher compression and weaker rods/pistons compared to a K04 engine, so it has it's mechanical limits regardless of what turbo you fit.
Over boosted stock blocks break ring lands very easily if stressed beyond the limits, so absolutely you should forge it if you want to run 360+ all day long. And that's a genuine 360hp, not the fantasy figures most dynos churn out.
Making power gets real expensive, real fast, so give it some thought as it may not be worth it in the long run. Sometimes it's better to cut your losses and buy a car with that much power as standard for an easier life.
