So a bit more of a detailed update. Had AmD Tuning fit a set of Bilstein B14 coilovers and the ECS Tuning top mount kit (which is really just Audi TTS/RS3 top mounts up front and OEM rear top mounts). My short review of the kits combined is that the car drives better than stock along the motorway and around corners it’s on another world. Obviously I can’t compare the kit fairly at this time for two reason, firstly I’ve only just fitted it so honeymoon stage isn’t over and it’s still bedding in and secondly this is the first time I’ve ever run coilovers so I’m going to be bias towards them. But as a sub £1000 (well nearly!) investment, it’s well worth it.
Also decided to begin the exterior cosmetic upgrades by fitting my JOM de-badged front grill with accompanying pressed plate on magnets. Also run pressed plates out back with an ABT surround, will need to sort it before I take any pictures though as it’s off to one side and bugs the hell out of me. Can’t put imperfect pictures up online, would be shameful. The magnet mod for the plate works a treat, £15 of parts all in (magnets, felt, super glue and some gorilla tape) and it’s certainly changed the front end. However now I’m not sure I like my alloy style with the front, it’s a clash of euro style with motor sport theme in my eyes and I’m unsure on it. Already looking at swapping alloys to something like BBS LM (well, reps as I’m poor) or the new Wolfrace Roadster (yet to be put on sale). Also going to fit my Edition 30 front splitter before making a real decision on wheels.
Picture time…
Currently sat at the highest setting, 30mm drop over stock. Will let the dampers bed in a bit and see how she handles around my local proving ground before adjusting the height a bit. May drop a further 5-10mm but I don’t like it when I can’t see the top of the tyre in the arch.
My second GTI steering wheel is off to the trimmers to get done up, will post pictures of when it’s back and then fitted in the car. Next month will be leather interior upgrade time along with a full audio upgrade. Running all the speakers off of an external amp as my Kenwood head unit is, frankly, pants. I may try and begin sorting my ED30 splitter too but that’s a low priority right now, need to sort my interior as I’m fed up of not having a room at work to live in! Crap corner is back with a vengeance…
