3.0 new owner review - AUTO tranny point of view

[AWDDave]

Completely agree that it allows the driver the access to change gears and pick the appropriate gear. But to say that the auto box is comparable to a manual box - I fail to see this.

What I'm trying to say is that it cannot compare to a manual box:
1. The box is slower to change up (delays) - even with clutch-in, gear change and clutch-out
2. Because of the above, the driver engagement with the box is not as good as it should be (compare that to a DSG box or something convetional)
3. The auto box saps up power, making it vastly slower than a manual

However, putting more power through the box could potentially match the box really well, provided the right mods were put in place (line pressures, revised valves etc)

[scottb721]

The enjoyment is comparable and there is plenty of power left after the auto takes its share of it. The car gets to the speed limit well and truly quick enough.

I would have bought the manual if the right balance between age, klms and price had presented itself, but I got an 08 with 48k for $26.5k which I thought was good value (1st owner's receipt showed $56k). Its was an auto but I haven't looked back. To each their own, I just don't want ppl ruling out the auto when they may have misconceptions about it.

[Scoobygurl]

Really good topic guys, have enjoyed reading it!

I myself am trying to find a post facelift 3.0r manual, but it's taking so long to find the right one that I have been recently considering just going with an auto - there's a few autos around that would fit the bill nicely, if they were a manual !

[MH3.0R]

...However, putting more power through the box could potentially match the box really well, provided the right mods were put in place (line pressures, revised valves etc)

Dave,

I did all of the above to my auto box and the only true gain was from tuning by Matt at KiDo Racing. He knows the relationship between the ECU and TCU and the right parameters to tune. Now getting a lot more of my power to the ground.

BTW, I would not do a Valve Body Mod before tuning from Matt. Nor would I do any auto box upgrades until you have tuned with Matt. Only if you find a weakness in the auto should you consider pulling it apart and then you may as well add as many improvements to clutch packs and bearings and seals as you can afford. And hope you wallet can take the heat!

[mrcrazydude]

thanks guys,
I've been awol for a while, and prob still will be, but I'm still thinking about what to get & when.
unfortunately our finances & life decisions are coming before toys right now.

still enjoying seeing peoples feedback, and still VERY partial to these baby's!

hopefully someday soon!

Cheers,
Tim