Corrado TDI,
This thread really brings up some memories! Over a year since I posted this idea. Since then I passed my A3 Jetta TDI on to my parents and we got a new 2001 New Beetle TDI to replace it. I really liked the idea of a Corrado TDI, and before getting the Bug I looked at it before being told that the engine mounting would be difficult. I didn't think it would be, but these were VW people telling me this...
But now I see someone has done it, and lookie here, it IS basically a bolt in from what you are telling me! I still would love to have a Corrado TDI (love the style), and the lighter weight than even the Jetta would really help the performance.
Even though the A4 (VNT) motors are stronger than the first gen TDI, you can really feel the difference in weight between the Jetta and the Bug. Mind you the Bug has an amazingly stiff chassis (which helps a lot I can tell already for handling), and the brakes are awesome. But, the extra 200+ lbs increase in weight over the Jetta (I think the J was around 2700 lbs) can really be felt. Going lighter than the Jetta with the brakes of the Bug, lower CG, slippery body, and (hopefully) relatively stiff chassis, would make for a real killer car.
How do you find the Corrado as far as structural integrity? Is the 10 year old chassis still pretty tight (as good a the A3 Golf/Jetta)? Do you get a lot of vibration in the cabin?
Since the swap is as do-able as you say it is, I am now really thinking about this again. I'm looking for a good slalom/track car, but want a diesel as well. The Bug is nice, but the heavy weight and large body are a performance drawback.
Do you have any pictures of your car online? Any performance stats? Are you chipped?
Thanks for reminding me of such a cool idea!
-Gord
01 NB TDI
99 Jetta TDI (parents car now)
83 Scirocco (another project)