why does my MKVI manual trans feel so much less responsive?

jerryfreak

Veteran Member
Joined
Feb 16, 2004
Location
Nor Cal
TDI
02 Jetta GLS sedan @295K, 99 Jetta sedan 275k,. 2015 tdi sedan, 105k
relative to my MKIV 5-speed. when i downshift the 5 speed i feel more positive resistance, i literally hardly ever use the brakes


my 2015 6-speed doesnt have the same response in 4th (and 3rd is just way too low)


whats the difference? compression ratio of engine? vehicle weight?
 

chaoscreature

Veteran Member
Joined
Sep 10, 2007
Location
vista, ca
TDI
2006 Jetta TDI Special Edition
Is your MK4 a diesel as well?
Generally diesels don't have great compression braking due to the lack of a throttle plate... hence the "Jake Brake" on big rigs.
 

turbobrick240

Top Post Dawg
Joined
Nov 18, 2014
Location
maine
TDI
2011 vw golf tdi(gone to greener pastures), 2001 ford f250 powerstroke
Probably due to the different gear ratios.
 

jerryfreak

Veteran Member
Joined
Feb 16, 2004
Location
Nor Cal
TDI
02 Jetta GLS sedan @295K, 99 Jetta sedan 275k,. 2015 tdi sedan, 105k
even if i slam it into 3rd it doesnt grab like my 5-speed. it will rev up high but just feels "slushy" like an automatic
 

turbobrick240

Top Post Dawg
Joined
Nov 18, 2014
Location
maine
TDI
2011 vw golf tdi(gone to greener pastures), 2001 ford f250 powerstroke
Huh, not sure then. Could be a combination of things. Like the older car having higher compression, smaller turbo, and possibly thicker gear lube.
 
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