Can we get faster laps in our Mk7 GTI by upgrading the intercooler?

Update by Colin Wood to the Volkswagen Golf GTI project car
Sep 26, 2024 | VW, GTI, Track Car, Project car, Mk7 GTI, 034 Motorsport

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Photography Credit: David S. Wallens

Sure, our Mk7 GTI is both fast and consistent, but only for a handful of laps before the engine heat soaks and lap times get slower.

The solution? Upgrade the intercooler.

Watch the video below to see how much we improved our GTI’s lap times by installing a beefier intercooler from 034Motorsport.

Video: Is a tune worth it? We put our GTI on the dyno to find out.

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Comments

Max Clouse
3/12/24 1:28 p.m.

Could you pull up some data with stock intercooler comparing an early and late run showing how much speed was being lost with stock setup as well?

Thanks

Tom Suddard GRM+ Memberand Publisher
3/12/24 1:45 p.m.

We switched data partners, so I can't overlay them on the same screen, but here's a lap chart of back-to-back laps from the stock intercooler on a warm day:

Tom Suddard GRM+ Memberand Publisher
3/12/24 1:48 p.m.

And here's a speed trace showing the fast lap vs. the last lap. Yes, you can see the tires falling off, but you can also see the drastically different acceleration curves.