Thinking of trading the GTI in for an MS3........

[PureDrive]

So, as the title says, I am thinking about trading in the GTI for a new Mazdaspeed3. A couple of dealerships not all that far of a drive from where I am (like an hour) has a few MS3's for sale at $20,300. With that price, I could end up getting an MS3 for about the same payments I have now, maybe $10-20 more a month.

Now I like the GTI a bunch, but I just feel like it is getting kind of dull to drive, and I have always wanted more power, missing the thrust of my old modified WRX's. I don't want to chip the car because of all the issues I have had with dealerships and modifying cars in general over the years. And I have a hard time spending the $$$ on a flash that is just money out the window if/when I trade the car in for something else. It is almost to the point that the GTI is just too smooth and refined for my liking at this point. It is kind of numb to drive at times.

I have looked at the MS3 in the past, almost getting one, but eventually getting the GTI instead because of the interior. However, I kind of want the extra power stock, the better braking (one of my biggest complaints around my GTI), mechanical LSD, slightly tighter handling, and four doors (for my job).

I don't really know the point of this post, other than to just get some thoughts from you guys, and to get some of my thoughts out. I just seem to really miss the performance aspect of driving, not that the GTI does not perform, but it is more of an all-around package than a performance car. I would not be modding the MS3, outside of shifter bushing/short shifter, some chassis bracing, and maybe a larger rear sway bar; no engine or real suspension mods. It simply does everything I want it too out of the box. If I get it, it is a car I will keep for at least 5 years.

Thanks for any thoughts and/or opinions. I appreciate it.

[SteelerGTI90]

DONT DO IT!

[moniz]

So, as the title says, I am thinking about trading in the GTI for a new Mazdaspeed3. A couple of dealerships not all that far of a drive from where I am (like an hour) has a few MS3's for sale at $20,300. With that price, I could end up getting an MS3 for about the same payments I have now, maybe $10-20 more a month.

Now I like the GTI a bunch, but I just feel like it is getting kind of dull to drive, and I have always wanted more power, missing the thrust of my old modified WRX's. I don't want to chip the car because of all the issues I have had with dealerships and modifying cars in general over the years. And I have a hard time spending the $$$ on a flash that is just money out the window if/when I trade the car in for something else. It is almost to the point that the GTI is just too smooth and refined for my liking at this point. It is kind of numb to drive at times.

I have looked at the MS3 in the past, almost getting one, but eventually getting the GTI instead because of the interior. However, I kind of want the extra power stock, the better braking (one of my biggest complaints around my GTI), mechanical LSD, slightly tighter handling, and four doors (for my job).

I don't really know the point of this post, other than to just get some thoughts from you guys, and to get some of my thoughts out. I just seem to really miss the performance aspect of driving, not that the GTI does not perform, but it is more of an all-around package than a performance car. I would not be modding the MS3, outside of shifter bushing/short shifter, some chassis bracing, and maybe a larger rear sway bar; no engine or real suspension mods. It simply does everything I want it too out of the box. If I get it, it is a car I will keep for at least 5 years.

Thanks for any thoughts and/or opinions. I appreciate it.


To each their own. My GTI still provides me with tons of thrills and is a fantastic daily driver, which is it's main purpose in my life.

[wabbit23]

X2, keep the GTI

[utekineir]

Keep in mind monthly payments are different than total amount owed, resale value, and that most of your concerns can be addressed through aftermarket parts.

[mike2727]

So, as the title says, I am thinking about trading in the GTI for a new Mazdaspeed3. A couple of dealerships not all that far of a drive from where I am (like an hour) has a few MS3's for sale at $20,300. With that price, I could end up getting an MS3 for about the same payments I have now, maybe $10-20 more a month.

Now I like the GTI a bunch, but I just feel like it is getting kind of dull to drive, and I have always wanted more power, missing the thrust of my old modified WRX's. I don't want to chip the car because of all the issues I have had with dealerships and modifying cars in general over the years. And I have a hard time spending the $$$ on a flash that is just money out the window if/when I trade the car in for something else. It is almost to the point that the GTI is just too smooth and refined for my liking at this point. It is kind of numb to drive at times.

I have looked at the MS3 in the past, almost getting one, but eventually getting the GTI instead because of the interior. However, I kind of want the extra power stock, the better braking (one of my biggest complaints around my GTI), mechanical LSD, slightly tighter handling, and four doors (for my job).

I don't really know the point of this post, other than to just get some thoughts from you guys, and to get some of my thoughts out. I just seem to really miss the performance aspect of driving, not that the GTI does not perform, but it is more of an all-around package than a performance car. I would not be modding the MS3, outside of shifter bushing/short shifter, some chassis bracing, and maybe a larger rear sway bar; no engine or real suspension mods. It simply does everything I want it too out of the box. If I get it, it is a car I will keep for at least 5 years.

Thanks for any thoughts and/or opinions. I appreciate it.

I think you already made your case, so any feedback from other GTI owners would be useless

Go for the MS3 and enjoy / live with it for 5 years, good luck

Mike

[kyle]

I looked at Speed 3's before I bought my GTI. I personally think that the GTI is a much better vehicle and a much classier looking vehicle than the MS3. Not to mention the GTI's build quality.

IMO, the MS3's look exactly like the base 3's except for the larger roof spoiler and the wheels. Everywhere you look, you see a Mazda 3, which really takes away the luster of that car for me...even if it is a Speed 3.

Now, you could say that the rabbit and GTI look alike, but IMO, there is a large enough difference in design between the two that the GTI really sets itself apart from the rabbit.

Just yesterday, I was pulling through a Starbucks with a number of people sitting outside, and everyone's head turned when I drove by. There's something about a lowered, black GTI with hufs and tint that really makes it stand out.:wink: Good luck with your decision.

[h0ckeyfreek20]

So, as the title says, I am thinking about trading in the GTI for a new Mazdaspeed3. A couple of dealerships not all that far of a drive from where I am (like an hour) has a few MS3's for sale at $20,300. With that price, I could end up getting an MS3 for about the same payments I have now, maybe $10-20 more a month.

Now I like the GTI a bunch, but I just feel like it is getting kind of dull to drive, and I have always wanted more power, missing the thrust of my old modified WRX's. I don't want to chip the car because of all the issues I have had with dealerships and modifying cars in general over the years. And I have a hard time spending the $$$ on a flash that is just money out the window if/when I trade the car in for something else. It is almost to the point that the GTI is just too smooth and refined for my liking at this point. It is kind of numb to drive at times.

I have looked at the MS3 in the past, almost getting one, but eventually getting the GTI instead because of the interior. However, I kind of want the extra power stock, the better braking (one of my biggest complaints around my GTI), mechanical LSD, slightly tighter handling, and four doors (for my job).

I don't really know the point of this post, other than to just get some thoughts from you guys, and to get some of my thoughts out. I just seem to really miss the performance aspect of driving, not that the GTI does not perform, but it is more of an all-around package than a performance car. I would not be modding the MS3, outside of shifter bushing/short shifter, some chassis bracing, and maybe a larger rear sway bar; no engine or real suspension mods. It simply does everything I want it too out of the box. If I get it, it is a car I will keep for at least 5 years.

Thanks for any thoughts and/or opinions. I appreciate it.

there are mod friendly dealerships and most of your complaints about the GTI can be fixed with a chip, hawk break pads, and a rear sway bar (something you said ud put on the ms3 also). your engine bay will be completely stock and if you go APR i know you can go back into stock ECU mode and the dealership will never know.

[hurdy]

Don't like the MS3 and so obviously my reply is.... DON'T GET ONE!!!!!!!

[PureDrive]

Don't like the MS3 and so obviously my reply is.... DON'T GET ONE!!!!!!!


Why don't you like the MS3?

[PureDrive]

I looked at Speed 3's before I bought my GTI. I personally think that the GTI is a much better vehicle and a much classier looking vehicle than the MS3. Not to mention the GTI's build quality.

IMO, the MS3's look exactly like the base 3's except for the larger roof spoiler and the wheels. Everywhere you look, you see a Mazda 3, which really takes away the luster of that car for me...even if it is a Speed 3.

Now, you could say that the rabbit and GTI look alike, but IMO, there is a large enough difference in design between the two that the GTI really sets itself apart from the rabbit.

Just yesterday, I was pulling through a Starbucks with a number of people sitting outside, and everyone's head turned when I drove by. There's something about a lowered, black GTI with hufs and tint that really makes it stand out.:wink: Good luck with your decision.

That is definately not a concern of mine. I really don't care about looks all that much, as long as I don't think something it ugly. I'm all about the driving experience and performance, and a decent interior (which the MS3 has.......not like the GTI, but decent enough). I like sleepers.........

[moniz]

For me speed/performance isn't everything. Oh, it's way up there, but overall refinement is what I'm after and the GTI fit like a glove. I was a Honda guy through and through but when it came down to the the most recent Si and the MKV, the Si felt/looked positively cheesy next to the GTI, and I made the switch and haven't looked back. To me the MS3 falls into the same category as the Si, but that's just one man's opinion. No bashing here.

[hurdy]

Why don't you like the MS3?

I drove one last year and didn't like the stickshift, the low rent interior compared to the VW, the highish seating position and relative position of the pedals, the droning exhaust sound (not a good sounding system), the rattles that were eminating from the rear quarter of the car and the styling from just about every angle. Add to that the fact it has no subjective heritage (which I'm quite big on) it just didn't float my boat. Also bear in mind that I jumped out of my 309whp DSG Edition 30 into it and you can see why I was underwhelmed.

Positives

Didn't handle badly

errrr....that's it!

[stuck24]

I drove a regular mazda 3 hatch for 2 years....I was considering an MS3 before I got my GTI...

if you want one...go ahead... but sometimes, over the course of a couple of years, you realize annoying things about your car... the Mazda is great, but nowhere near refined and livable. Hit a bump in the road, you will hear an annoying suspension "glunk"....all the time.

Hit the accelerator hard, and prepare to steer str8 hard. Hit a bump, and prepare for annoying bump steer. The road noise is atrocious after 10k miles... and all seasons ain't gonna help...

I do like the looks of the ms3...
speedwise the GTI is deceptive...it is only .3 seconds off MS3 times to 50 mph...

remember, the MS3 is boomy, unrefined monster... but it should be quicker given its 280 lb/ ft torque (which, btw... is only given to the driver past 3rd gear)

the initial veneer of low price, high torque, raw power, good looks will all wear off in time.... the overwhelming torque will be a nuisance in rain, the lack of feedback in the steering/ gearbox will further add to your malaise. You'll find that your GTI is only .3 seconds slower to freeway speed.... and then the plastic arm rests will become sticky and yucky when hot.... and then you'll wish you had your GTI

LOL... the MS3 is a great car now... and for the next year.... it's up to you... good luck and whatever makes you happy.

[Jersey UG MKV]

Why don't you just buy the wrx 5 door and be done with it. Will cost you a bit more but in the end way worth it.

[yahookendogg]

i didn't even consider a mazdaspeed 3 when i was shopping for a gti. exterior styling is not that appealing to me. im sure it drives like a jap car, it's impossible to get that solid euro feel with imports. i know how it gets kinda dull when u drive a same car for a long time, i have other cars so i usually just stick the gti in the garage and drive other cars to feel how crappy they are compared to a gti.

[vasaribm]

I currently own both. I drive a MS3 (with few mods) and my girl drives a GTI with APR Stage 1. Both are super fun to drive. Yes there are positives to both but both have negatives too, and this discussion can go on forever.

I say do what you want. If you want to try something new the MS3 isn't a bad choice or stay with the GTI and be happy.

[siliconcenturion]

Why don't you just buy the wrx 5 door and be done with it. Will cost you a bit more but in the end way worth it.

Seriously dude, the MS3 is good, but the WRX is in a different class of performance.

[PureDrive]

Why don't you just buy the wrx 5 door and be done with it. Will cost you a bit more but in the end way worth it.


The new 09 WRX is nice, but there are a bunch of engine issues going on with them right now - things are popping left and right. Some people have actually had the replacement engine fail as well. Subaru is saying nothing officially yet, but go on NASIOC.com to hear the horror stories........Also, the price is too high for me right now and there probably won't be any deals to be found on the car that will get me into one comfortably. I'm a former WRX owner, so I know how decent a car it can be, but Subarus have there own issues to, and I always got horrible gas mileage with all of my old WRX's. I drive about 85-90 miles a day right now with work.........And the MS3 probably puts down more power, of course to the front wheels and not as effectively at times. Hence the price being lower........

[utekineir]

To expand on earlier. I'd compare the resale on an 06 ms3 vs an 06 gti before the trade, also bear in mind the dealer won't trade without making a profit. Your monthly payment may go down but what you owe will probably go up.

My gti with coils, rsb, dogbone and summers handles considerably different than the other one in the family with just stage 1. I'm in Leominster for errands most days if you wanted to go for a ride.

Brake wise when my pads are shot I plan on going the hawk pads, ss lines, bushings, fluid route most go. Which is supposedly as much of a brake upgrade as is needed.

Also chips help with boring commuting mpg in most cases.

[Si Killer]

if you buy an ms3 i'll find you and shoot you in the kneecaps

[angrybaker]

if you buy an ms3 i'll find you and shoot you in the kneecaps

this could be the most compelling argument yet.

do what you want, but if you you really should chip it. then think about it again.

good luck on your decision......and avoid getting shot by sikiller

[DejaVu]

I'd trade in my GTI for a 2 door Cobalt SS/TC over an MS3. Aren't people having their engines fall out of the MS3?

[moniz]

I'd trade in my GTI for a 2 door Cobalt SS/TC over an MS3. Aren't people having their engines fall out of the MS3?

You didn't just say that! :eyebulge:

[07GeeTeeEye]

and chipping your gti isnt really throwing money out the window man. ive seen people sell apr stage 1 reflash on here. they just have to live near you

[brekdown29]

http://golfmkv.com/forums/showthread.php?t=85926

just throwin' it out there.

[doublevanosrc]

I've been driving a cobalt for the past 2 days and trust me I'm missing GTI like it was a FERRARI!!! Sometimes you don't know what you have til its gone.

[handegraphix]

Remember this...you're initial statement says that it becomes numb at times. EVERY car will become numb at SOME time during the ownership period. Don't spend extra dollars chasing that next big thing. 12 cars later of every make model and performance enhancement, I learned that lesson.

[nhbubba]

IMO, the MS3's look exactly like the base 3's except for the larger roof spoiler and the wheels. Everywhere you look, you see a Mazda 3, which really takes away the luster of that car for me...even if it is a Speed 3.
Bah! I feel the total opposite. At least pre '10 model 3's.

I feel the base 3-hatches are pretty darn good looking. But the speed-3 is over the top boy-racer. If that's your bag, gofer it. The GTI's appearance will hold up better over time, in my opinion.

..That is until the new '10 model showed up. I can't stand the front end on any of the Mazda3 cars, but find the speed-3 the worst of the worst. For 2010+ any Golf/Jetta MkVI variant wins the beauty contest over a Mazda3 any day of the week.

Given, I'm over 30 now and probably not their target demographic anymore. I have graduated from HS and realize that I'm buying a mass produced automobile. The "it is unique" and "they are everywhere" thing is a total waste of effort. But I'm the same guy who drove a Miata for years and a JSW now w/o being ashamed of myself or some such crap.

[moniz]

I've been driving a cobalt for the past 2 days and trust me I'm missing GTI like it was a FERRARI!!! Sometimes you don't know what you have til its gone.


My condolences.

I remember 10 years ago when my Civic Si was hit and in the shop, I had a Sunfire rental. In relative terms my Si was a Ferrari too, compared to the crappy handling and over all feel of that POS Pontiac. I feel your pain.

Damn, now I'm reliving how crappy that feeling was.:cry: Time to go for a drive in my GTI!:happyanim:

[doublevanosrc]

My condolences.

I remember 10 years ago when my Civic Si was hit and in the shop, I had a Sunfire rental. In relative terms my Si was a Ferrari too, compared to the crappy handling and over all feel of that POS Pontiac. I feel your pain.

Damn, now I'm reliving how crappy that feeling was.:cry: Time to go for a drive in my GTI!:happyanim:

Yeah no kidding now i know why GM is having problems, god what a POS car!! It's an 08 and the bumper is loose already, on the highway i was driving at 65mph the whole way because the car doesn't feel stable nor does it provide any type of confidence. Honestly i'm scared to take it any faster because i feel unsafe driving this thing. Anyways I'm getting my GTI back today!!!!:happyanim:

[xHeartcoreboyx]

We don't have these here, but they have rice lights from the factory and they totally look like the ordinary girl car, they got good numbers though.

[miss0033]

I also test drove an MS3 (and Volvo C30 which is another great car if you are looking for a little more power!!!) before getting my GTI. To me a lot of the MS3 felt cheap, when I got to high speeds I felt a lot of vibrating in the body of the car. Every time I hit a pothole the whole thing creaked, and it always felt like the front bumper was going to fall off, I dont know how to describe that, but its what I felt like. It was quick but as a Daily driver, the stick shift wasnt gated to my liking, and I chirped the tires on accident all the time. But that might be your thing.

I was looking for a car that was civiled, I wouldnt be embarassed to show up at a business meeting in, could haul stuff for my job, and would be quick and fun when I wanted it to be. The GTI fit like a glove! Got it 2 months ago, and havent wiped the smile off my face yet. But too each their own.

Do check out the Volvo C30, you will be surprised, its a pretty darn good car. And I guarantee you wont see many of them.

[DejaVu]

You didn't just say that! :eyebulge:

LOL what I meant was that if was going to trade in my GTI because I want something in the same price range and faster stock, I'd get a Cobalt SS/TC. I dislike manual transmission so I'd never really do that. I'd really like to get a 2009 RAV4 Sport V6. In a recent road test it went 0-60 in 6.3 seconds. I miss my 2007 RAV4 even though it was 4 cyl I should have kept it.

[Si Killer]

LOL what I meant was that if was going to trade in my GTI because I want something in the same price range and faster stock, I'd get a Cobalt SS/TC. I dislike manual transmission so I'd never really do that. I'd really like to get a 2009 RAV4 Sport V6. In a recent road test it went 0-60 in 6.3 seconds. I miss my 2007 RAV4 even though it was 4 cyl I should have kept it.

:sm3:

[kyle]

:sm3:

:word:

[UMassJ77]

YEAH the 08-09 MS3 is NICE, but the 2010 MS3 is even NICER...heheh I am about to trade my 06 Mazda3 S GT in for the 2010 Mazda3 S GT with Navi and Bose!!! It's freaking sweet, yeah the engine is only 160hp/160tq, but it is nimble...I can imagine if I went with the MS3. But the Partner doesn't want a FI car!! So just the 2.3 n/a is fine...it's a sweet CAR!! 2010 has so much more then the GTI, both interior/exterior has been upgraded BIG TIME!!!! Now if VW stop DECONTENTING the MKVI might be worth it!!

[grada89]

I'd really like to get a 2009 RAV4 Sport V6. In a recent road test it went 0-60 in 6.3 seconds. I miss my 2007 RAV4 even though it was 4 cyl I should have kept it.

I'm trying to decide if you're being sarcastic or not.

:sm3:

[LeesburgMKV]

Don't do it, but if you do DEFINITELY do not buy a new MS3. They are so fucking ugly. They look like a smiling dinosaur. Who the fuck wants to drive a smiling dinosaur? Unless it's a real smiling dinosaur because I fucks with that shit.

[UberJAY]

why the hell would you ever do that? thats a downgrade. stage one and youre just as fast as one.. a little quicker even.

youll be mad as hell when you blow your motor pulling into your driveway.GL

[Diabel]

IMO, the MS3's look exactly like the base 3's except for the larger roof spoiler and the wheels. Everywhere you look, you see a Mazda 3, which really takes away the luster of that car for me...even if it is a Speed 3.

x2

[LeesburgMKV]

why the hell would you ever do that? thats a downgrade. stage one and youre just as fast as one.. a little quicker even.

youll be mad as hell when you blow your motor pulling into your driveway.GL

He's not modding it if he gets it so he won't blow his motor and if he does it will be covered under warranty.

He wants a car that is faster than the GTI without any modification.

[Diabel]

Now I like the GTI a bunch, but I just feel like it is getting kind of dull to drive, and I have always wanted more power, missing the thrust of my old modified WRX's. I don't want to chip the car because of all the issues I have had with dealerships and modifying cars in general over the years. And I have a hard time spending the $$$ on a flash that is just money out the window if/when I trade the car in for something else. It is almost to the point that the GTI is just too smooth and refined for my liking at this point. It is kind of numb to drive at times.

Wait for R20 then. :biggrin:

[grada89]

The rav4 will beat a civic Si, the GTI and the nissan sentra spec vagisil, err gtr gas sipper thingy...

If you're talking about the 4 cylinder Rav4 ....wake up.

If you're talking about the 3.5 v6 (same engine from camry) GTI stock will beat that also. 09 Rav4 does 0-60 in 7.2 and GTI in 6.7

Also the 0-60 time isn't even where the GTI performs well....from an unexpected roll on the streets the GTI with DSG will have a few cars before the RAV4 even manages to downshift.

Research some info on the GTI before you make statments.

[bovice]

I've been driving a cobalt for the past 2 days and trust me I'm missing GTI like it was a FERRARI!!! Sometimes you don't know what you have til its gone.

i know how you feel. last summer my ac went out on my GTI, the parts were backordered from Germany, so they had my car for 10 days. i was stuck driving a white Chevy Aveo 5 door. gayest car alive. it didnt even have a tape player, lol just am/fm radio. so i was stuck listening to the same shit over and over and shmobbin around with 103hp.....boy did i feel like a man.

OP....i dunno. MS3 are known to have major engine problems when tuned. granted they are pretty fast stock, but i wouldnt want to have all that power on a fwd car after its chipped and whatever else is done. if youre going to get one, get a used one.....the new ones are probably the ugliest car ive ever seen. i saw a new mazda3 on the road the other day and omg it was hideous

[kozluv]

So, as the title says, I am thinking about trading in the GTI for a new Mazdaspeed3. A couple of dealerships not all that far of a drive from where I am (like an hour) has a few MS3's for sale at $20,300. With that price, I could end up getting an MS3 for about the same payments I have now, maybe $10-20 more a month.

Now I like the GTI a bunch, but I just feel like it is getting kind of dull to drive, and I have always wanted more power, missing the thrust of my old modified WRX's. I don't want to chip the car because of all the issues I have had with dealerships and modifying cars in general over the years. And I have a hard time spending the $$$ on a flash that is just money out the window if/when I trade the car in for something else. It is almost to the point that the GTI is just too smooth and refined for my liking at this point. It is kind of numb to drive at times.

Umm pretty much all mods done to a car become "money out the window" when you trade it in so to get the chip for that reason is weak. There are also APR dealers in many states to ease your hesitancy, if thats whose chip you were looking at getting.

I have looked at the MS3 in the past, almost getting one, but eventually getting the GTI instead because of the interior. However, I kind of want the extra power stock, the better braking (one of my biggest complaints around my GTI), mechanical LSD, slightly tighter handling, and four doors (for my job).

In pretty much every magazine comparo all the reviewers say the love the power and torque of the Mazda but the GTI wins overall just about everytime, don't you get why?

I don't really know the point of this post, other than to just get some thoughts from you guys, and to get some of my thoughts out. I just seem to really miss the performance aspect of driving, not that the GTI does not perform, but it is more of an all-around package than a performance car. I would not be modding the MS3, outside of shifter bushing/short shifter, some chassis bracing, and maybe a larger rear sway bar; no engine or real suspension mods. It simply does everything I want it too out of the box. If I get it, it is a car I will keep for at least 5 years.

Thanks for any thoughts and/or opinions. I appreciate it.

How about you go and get the APR trial FOR FREE and see if the car still feels numb and has no thrust. And whoever suggested getting a new WRX, ban, they are so fucking ugly and have lost all the rigidity and enjoyment to drive that the older models had.

[Si Killer]

YEAH the 08-09 MS3 is NICE, but the 2010 MS3 is even NICER...heheh I am about to trade my 06 Mazda3 S GT in for the 2010 Mazda3 S GT with Navi and Bose!!! It's freaking sweet, yeah the engine is only 160hp/160tq, but it is nimble...I can imagine if I went with the MS3. But the Partner doesn't want a FI car!! So just the 2.3 n/a is fine...it's a sweet CAR!! 2010 has so much more then the GTI, both interior/exterior has been upgraded BIG TIME!!!! Now if VW stop DECONTENTING the MKVI might be worth it!!

Holy shit I would hate to meet you in person. You'd just scream the entire time.

[GTivan72]

hahahaha..:laughabove:

[celolado]

to the OP, congrats we will never see you again, you have blended yourself in with the masses

[Si Killer]

to the OP, congrats we will never see you again, you have blended yourself in with the masses

i see more people in gti's than i do speed3's.

[nhbubba]

Wow, things are a lot different in IL I guess.

Last month while I was still shopping my local Mazda dealer had 3-4 '09 MS3's on the lot, at a significant discount. Meanwhile he had no '09 non-speed 3's left, only the new '10 models. Most local VW dealers had NO GTIs left in stock. I found just one at a local dealer.

[07GeeTeeEye]

yeah seriously i think ive seen like 7 speed3's since ive been driving. which is about a year.

[PureDrive]

Damn. I wanted to go test drive the Speed3 again yesterday (as I have not actually driven one since last August.....) but never got to. I appreciate all the input guys.......accept for the RAV4 stuff :biggrin:..........

[julito04]

I'd trade in my GTI for a 2 door Cobalt SS/TC over an MS3. Aren't people having their engines fall out of the MS3?

I agree with ya.

You didn't just say that! :eyebulge:

Its called bang for buck.. Cobalts have it.

LOL what I meant was that if was going to trade in my GTI because I want something in the same price range and faster stock, I'd get a Cobalt SS/TC. I dislike manual transmission so I'd never really do that. I'd really like to get a 2009 RAV4 Sport V6. In a recent road test it went 0-60 in 6.3 seconds. I miss my 2007 RAV4 even though it was 4 cyl I should have kept it.


And you just fucked up here..

[arsenal55]

Wow, things are a lot different in IL I guess.

Last month while I was still shopping my local Mazda dealer had 3-4 '09 MS3's on the lot, at a significant discount. Meanwhile he had no '09 non-speed 3's left, only the new '10 models. Most local VW dealers had NO GTIs left in stock. I found just one at a local dealer.

I see a TON of GTIs in Chicago, mainly driven by the Central and Eastern European guys.

[handegraphix]

This thread is great.

[Turbostream]

u gonna regret it. i heard the Turbo on that car blows the sec. u mod it

[PureDrive]

just leave the exaust system stock and you wont have turbo issues. The real problem is how the motor hydro locks from oil being sucked into the intake. huge post here:http://www.mazdaspeedforums.org/forum/pt-performance/26996-why-does-your-motor-blow.html#post216612

Son of a bitch..........that is concerning..........

[Qwoz]

Of all cars to upgrade to why a ms3? Save your money and get a nicer car.

[Qwoz]

oh, and Mazdas have no community like you have right here. The VW modding community is the best.

[Turbostream]

Of all cars to upgrade to why a ms3? Save your money and get a nicer car.

exactly

there is a reason y its the same price as the GTI!

in all honestly if i was forced to pick a just performance/shitty interior car for around the price of a GTI id just get the Cobalt SS/TC. id pick over a MS3 anyday but i would rather have the GTI over both.

if i were u id keep it.

[kozluv]

The MS3 has just about everything the GTI does inside of it... Just because it has more power does NOT mean it should cost more. It would if more materials were required like a wrx to sti etc, alot of parts are different on those cars. The GTI and MS3 are pretty much in the same boat. I dont see how you figure the GTI interior is soo much better? Are you kidding me? My MS3 Grand touring has leather/alcantara seats (the seats have alot of leather on them), really nice dash layout, auto dim mirror with garage door buttons, 6 in dash with bose audio, aluminium pedalss, automatic climate control, etc. If I traded to a GTI I would loose the mirror, and auto climate control not necessarily. Not to mention the switches on the GTI look like ones out of a rental car IMO A VW rental maybe. :thumbsup:. (I bet I get flamed for that) I'm not saying its bad, I dont really care, all I'm saying is the MS3 interior is pretty good. Better than I thought it would be.

Have you actually driven a GTI before because the above statements you made tell me you have not.

[Turbostream]

i agree with Kozluv u obviously have never sat in a GTI before

[escape56]

if you dont want a wrx and you want power just get a ss cobalt, you wont be comfortable but you will get the power you want.....

[GTICrazy90]

The MS3 has just about everything the GTI does inside of it... Just because it has more power does NOT mean it should cost more. It would if more materials were required like a wrx to sti etc, alot of parts are different on those cars. The GTI and MS3 are pretty much in the same boat. I dont see how you figure the GTI interior is soo much better? My MS3 Grand touring has leather/alcantara seats (the seats have alot of leather on them), really nice dash layout, auto dim mirror with garage door buttons, 6 in dash with bose audio, aluminium pedalss, automatic climate control, etc. If I traded to a GTI I would loose the mirror, and auto climate control. Not to mention the switches on the GTI look like ones out of a rental car IMO. (I bet I get flamed for that) I'm not saying its bad, I dont really care, all I'm saying is the MS3 interior is pretty good. Better than I thought it would be.

Does the base MS3 come with all that leather and stuff, ive never sat in a MS3 but i have in the 2.3 hatch. And if its about the same, which i am guessing it kinda is maybe better seats and stuff. But I think the mazda's interior looks too plasticly. But my judgment is not on the MS3, so if its not the same correct me. But comparing that to the GTI, the GTI is better, better quality materials.

[Turbostream]

I test drove one. I liked the car alot, you guys need to test drive a MS3 cause I dont think you have seen the inside of one of those. The big things the GTI has over the MS3 inside is the control center thing in the center of the dash, and a sunroof (if equipped).

i got my GTI from a Mazda/VW dealership here. these were my top two cars to purchase...i was amazed at the performance of the Mazda but when i test drove it thats all there was...the interior felt like something was messing...but once i tet drove the GTI although is a little bit slower stock the interior just blew me away. in the cars in its price range i dont think any car has a better interior than the GTI. dont get me wrong speed3 does have some nice shit in there but FOR ME when i test drove the GTI i just said this car is FOR ME...

[PureDrive]

if you dont want a wrx and you want power just get a ss cobalt, you wont be comfortable but you will get the power you want.....

I thought about the Cobalt SS for a little bit, but the only time I have seen one in person, I sat in it for about a minute and could not wait to get out of it, turning down the keys from the salesman and telling him I did not want to test drive it after all............The MS3 has at least has the same power as the Cobalt SS, but also has a decent/nice interior.

[arekux]

i personally would wait for r20 or gti-r w/e they call it , basically gti with k04, I had been chipped since my car was 5k miles, now 38k miles, all problems i had every other stock gti had same problem, Diverter valve, PCV valve, airbag light, no way vw can blame chip for that, i'm blessed cause i have friend at vw dealership.

[PureDrive]

get a STi or evo 10.

You pay half :thumbsup:.........

[norsairius]

I have a MS3 right now, thinking of getting a GTI...

I love the speed but I dont need a car this fast, I just want to be able to cruise on the highway at 85-120. Plus the GTI having less power would be better in the snow, or at least I think it would be.
The GTI is good in the snow, well, at least its tires are. I've driven the GTI through a decent amount of snow and it held up really nicely.

the wrx is slower. 60-0 in the ms3 is 113, the wrx? over 125... the ms3 is alot faster than the new wrx. The new wrx is a huge dissapointment.
the new WRX stops in 107. you're probably quoting the 2008 WRX numbers. subaru woke up and realized how truly awful the 2008 WRX was and actually listened to their fans and made the WRX the machine it should have been.
check it out: http://www.edmunds.com/subaru/impreza/2009/testdrive.html
it may be down to better tires, but subaru made the 2009 more powerful and tightened up the suspension too. if I had to trade in the GTI for another similarly-priced vehicle, it'd be the 2009 WRX.

to the OP: I'd suggest not getting the MS3. I can see why the extra power may be tempting, and it may even arguably handle a bit better, but as an overall package, the GTI can't be beat. comparison tests show that. the GTI just has a heavy, solid feel to it too without being too much of a pig. I bet the MS3 won't feel as secure and planted at higher speeds, or any speed, when compared to the GTI.

[willpost]

The GTI and MS3 are more similar than any other in their category.

I test drove the GTI, WRX, MS3, and then a second time the GTI and MS3.

The WRX is a beast for accelerating and had incredible road grip.
AWD is nice for snow, but I don't expect to drive in it
Didn't like:
- Very stiff clutch, narrow power range, and imprecise 5 speed shifter made it hard to control. Felt like wrangling a bull
- Insurance was 20% higher than the other two

The GTI has impressive acceleration, tight suspension, good cornering, and there were lots of little things I liked (even if extra), along with the DSG (very nice if you're too tired to shift). The 6 speed has the lightest clutch i've ever seen and was easy to shift.
Insurance is cheapest of the 3. The 2 door is 100 lbs lighter and than the 4 door, but insurance is 10% more and I wouldn't subject anyone over age 30 to crawling behind a folded front seat.
Didn't like:
- The honk when locking the doors
- On the second test drive, I noticed the steering wheel felt thin, where the others felt a little more firm when grabbed

The MS3 has basically the same acceleration as the WRX, very powerful, though the power curve was more forgiving. It's easy to spin the front wheels, though the limited slip diff comes in handy when speeding around a corner. Suspension was the best of the three - it eats sharp turns for breakfast. Clutch is a little better than average, 6 speed is easy to find the gears.
Insurance is same as GTI 2 door
Didn't like:
- Torque steer, but with practice it can be compensated
- hate the 2010 smiley face grille and no more stealth turbo intake

I thought the interior trim was basically the same on all 3: nothing special but not economy car cheap. All 3 have a nice throaty exhaust sound. All 3 could peel out in almost every gear and easily pass cars in their top gear.

It was a very tough call between the GTI and MS3, and I argued in favor of the GTI for a week, but ended up getting the MS3 GT because I could get all the options and 18 inch rims for much cheaper. The other reason is someday when i'm old, the only thing i'll remember is the fastest car.

Would I trade a GTI for a MS3? Probably not if I was still making payments on it.

[GTivan72]

oh, and Mazdas have no community like you have right here. The VW modding community is the best.

100% agree:thumbsup:

[justtalkinaboutfast]

i see more people in gti's than i do speed3's.

thats because they blend in with the masses.
I see GTIs everywhere I go partly because I am looking for them.

[utekineir]

Didn't like:
- The honk when locking the doors


Can be disabled in the car settings using the screen in the dash.

[Turbostream]

Can be disabled in the car settings using the screen in the dash.

oh shit how u do that? is it in the manual?

[utekineir]

should be, or just go through the mfd settings menu while parked and you'll find it eventually,

[kozluv]

The GTI and MS3 are more similar than any other in their category.

I test drove the GTI, WRX, MS3, and then a second time the GTI and MS3.

The WRX is a beast for accelerating and had incredible road grip.
AWD is nice for snow, but I don't expect to drive in it
Didn't like:
- Very stiff clutch, narrow power range, and imprecise 5 speed shifter made it hard to control. Felt like wrangling a bull
- Insurance was 20% higher than the other two

The GTI has impressive acceleration, tight suspension, good cornering, and there were lots of little things I liked (even if extra), along with the DSG (very nice if you're too tired to shift). The 6 speed has the lightest clutch i've ever seen and was easy to shift.
Insurance is cheapest of the 3. The 2 door is 100 lbs lighter and than the 4 door, but insurance is 10% more and I wouldn't subject anyone over age 30 to crawling behind a folded front seat.
Didn't like:
- The honk when locking the doors
- On the second test drive, I noticed the steering wheel felt thin, where the others felt a little more firm when grabbed

The MS3 has basically the same acceleration as the WRX, very powerful, though the power curve was more forgiving. It's easy to spin the front wheels, though the limited slip diff comes in handy when speeding around a corner. Suspension was the best of the three - it eats sharp turns for breakfast. Clutch is a little better than average, 6 speed is easy to find the gears.
Insurance is same as GTI 2 door
Didn't like:
- Torque steer, but with practice it can be compensated
- hate the 2010 smiley face grille and no more stealth turbo intake

I thought the interior trim was basically the same on all 3: nothing special but not economy car cheap. All 3 have a nice throaty exhaust sound. All 3 could peel out in almost every gear and easily pass cars in their top gear.

It was a very tough call between the GTI and MS3, and I argued in favor of the GTI for a week, but ended up getting the MS3 GT because I could get all the options and 18 inch rims for much cheaper. The other reason is someday when i'm old, the only thing i'll remember is the fastest car.

Would I trade a GTI for a MS3? Probably not if I was still making payments on it.

You bring up some very good points, but the steering wheel feeling thin? Did you have mittens on? I think the GTI steering wheel is by far one of the best ones out there.

[PureDrive]

^Agreed. The GTI, from my experiences -and I have test driven just about every car of a "sporting" nature under $35K at one time or another - has one of the best and thickest steering wheels out there. The MS3's felt much thinner to me........in general, they all feel thinner than the GTI's to me..........

And on a side steering wheel related note, I just got my stock steering wheel replaced under warranty after just about 10K miles due to the thread coming loose on the right hand side at the 3 o"clock position.

[VDUBMkV///C]

In all honesty I think the Ms3 wouldnt be a fun car to modify. Their cosmetics just look too over played and what options do you have to personalize it. For the GTI you can change valences, front shields, etc. I also think the GTI's fenders could handle alot more than the Ms3 in terms of going low. IMO I like the GTI because I think it looks better and the interior is fantastic. Ive sat in numerious Mazda 3s (not speed3-different interior?) and I wasnt to greatly impressed. I just have a boner for the GTI and I am biased for that. :thumbsup:

[PureDrive]

So that is it. I either need to mod the GTI to Stage 1 or trade it in. I am really not enjoying driving the car right now. I keep getting this underlying vibration/shaking through the entire car. I have had the car at the dealership several times for vibration and they have found nothing wrong. The last time they checked the alignment, balancing, and had the shop foreman/senior tech work with the car. I even tried putting in a stiffer motor mount insert a while back and all that did was make the whole car shake like it was going to fall apart. Now with the stock mount back in, the car feels a little sloppy and still has a level of shaking/vibration.

As well, the car only seems like it has power some of the time. Half the time on my drive to work this morning I push the gas and get sputtering/rattling/wooshing sounds but no thrust. Then some other times I push the gas and it goes pretty good, pulls pretty decently.

I really love the interior and the exterior style of the car, and actually really like the transmission. The handling is stable and secure, and pretty smooth in that respect all in all. I am definately sick of hitting the throttle and not really getting anything except noises from time to time..........I want to want to keep the car, but I am losing my affection for it quickly at this point........

Sorry for the little rant, just sick of not enjoying driving my car, as that is a huge part of my day...........

[utekineir]

sounds like you definitely have something wrong with the car,

i've had the transmission mount insert and the full dogbone, neither increased vibration by any noticeable degree.

maybe make a thread with your symptoms in the engine section here, and over on vortex where it would be applicable and see if anyone can help, theres a metric fuck ton of knowledge between the two sites.

[PureDrive]

sounds like you definitely have something wrong with the car,

i've had the transmission mount insert and the full dogbone, neither increased vibration by any noticeable degree.

maybe make a thread with your symptoms in the engine section here, and over on vortex where it would be applicable and see if anyone can help, theres a metric fuck ton of knowledge between the two sites.

Honestly, I don't even feel like it is worth it at this time. I am taking off my P-Flo when I get home from work today because I just don't want anything on the car in case I trade the car in at any moment, when I have spare time to get to a dealership. I don't know. I like the GTI.........just don't know what to do right now as I am not really getting anything positive from driving the car right now.

[utekineir]

I'm sure you're frustrated but posting a paragraph or two on a couple sites is less effort than trading a car and the increased total debt that will be incurred.

I had read something on vortex about a fueling issue with the Tsi some cars were having that there was a fix for. Perhaps that could be a part of the problem.

[sloMk5]

I agree something is wrong with your car. I have a lot more polyurethane on mine than you do and I have barely any increased vibration at all. No one even notices it except for me. Defintely no shaking like the car is going to fall apart, it feels solid as a rock and is very stable under hard driving now.

Do what you want though, hopefully the motor wont blow up or fall out of your MS3 :P

[PureDrive]

I have brought it to the dealership (2 different) several times and really can't bring it back again for the same issue. I would just post up a thread here, but everything is so damn vague. Even on startup, the muffler in the back is banging/thudding around a little from the initial vibration. And now that I have had an aftermarket mount in and messed with the stock one to get the mount in there, there are more variables. If I knew what to do to make it fine again, I would do it. But right now, I am tired of trying to track it down/figure it out and just want to enjoy my driving experience. I'd rather the GTI run perfect and keep it, but I just don't know how to make that happen at this point. I have even thought about waiting for BSH to release their new engine mounts, spend more money to buy those, and see if they help my situation. Again, I don't know...........

The MS3 just seems like an alternative to this situation, as it is a sporty, quick, good handling hatchback that I can probably get new around $20,000, which will offset the negative equity from the GTI.

And I have been reading about the engine mount issues with the MS3 for years now. It is a very small percentage, and like anything with a car, you never really know what the heck is going to happen or not. I know it would stay stock, as it really does not need any more power for a FWD vehicle and if something happened, back to the dealership it would go.

I don't know..........

[utekineir]

Make a post here under the engine section copy paste to vortex.

It's far less effort than a trade. There is a lot of knowlege out there.

[PureDrive]

^ I made the thread, here and on the tex. We'll see how it goes...........